The kitchen often revolves around the sink and it needs to be fully functional.
Any issues in this regard can make it difficult to prepare recipes, wash dishes, and/or use the faucet as a water source.
A common issue homeowners point to is the low water pressure in a kitchen sink but nowhere else.
There can be low water pressure in a kitchen sink due to a clogged cartridge or blocked aerator. To fix, shut off the water line, locate the aerator (tip of the faucet), and spin it counter-clockwise to remove. It’s recommended to clean the aerator and remove all debris before re-installing it.
You will want to be methodical during this step to make sure the low water pressure is improved.
This article will look at a step-by-step solution for fixing the low water pressure in a kitchen sink.
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Reasons For Low Water Pressure In A Kitchen Sink But Nowhere Else
If you are dealing with low water pressure in the kitchen sink but nowhere else, it’s likely going to come down to one of five specific reasons.
These reasons are going to include:
- Blocked Cartridge
- Clogged Aerator
- Leaking Pipe
- Aging Valve
- Neighborhood Water Suppy Issue
Any of these reasons can cause the water pressure to drop in the kitchen. There is nothing to panic about and it simply comes down to completing the steps listed in this article.
You can work on two of these issues on your own with a bit of guidance. If there is a leaking pipe, it’s recommended to consult with a plumber for more information.
Steps On How To Fix Low Water Pressure In A Kitchen Sink (Aerator)
1. Shut Off The Water Supply And Block The Drain
The first thing you are going to do is shut off the water supply to your kitchen sink.
To do this, you are going to look inside the cabinet underneath. This cabinet is going to house a valve that is located near the pipe running up into the kitchen faucet.
This is where the water is going through before it comes out of the faucet. You will want to shut it off right here.
Spin the valve and make sure the water stops running into the faucet. You can give it a little test before starting the repair work.
2. Spin The Aerator Counter-Clockwise
Now it is time to look at the aerator.
This is going to be located at the tip of the faucet and can be removed using a wrench. You are going to want to spin the wrench counter-clockwise to loosen it.
This will cause the aerator to come loose ensuring you can take it out easily. Be patient during this process to make sure you don’t ruin the thread as that can make it difficult to re-install later on.
If you spin it enough, the aerator will come off.
3. Clean The Debris
You will want to start by cleaning the debris that gets trapped inside the aerator.
This is common for aging kitchen faucets.
In general, it is highly recommended to install a brand-new aerator if you are taking the time to replace it. This will save you a lot of time later on and make sure you don’t have to re-open the faucet again.
If you do wish to use the same aerator then it’s best to clean it thoroughly and ensure there’s no debris left behind.
4. Re-Install The Aerator Or Replace It
The last step is to set the aerator back into place by spinning the wrench in the opposite direction.
This will allow the aerator to tighten into place making sure it works as intended. Remember, you will want to ensure it’s tightly in place as that is going to ensure the kitchen faucet doesn’t start dripping water later on.
Doing this right the first time is a must as it will ensure the faucet runs as planned.
Steps On How To Fix Clogged Cartridge In Kitchen Sink
1. Shut Off The Water Supply And Block The Drain
If the issue is a clogged cartridge then you will want to begin by shutting off the water supply.
This is located underneath the kitchen sink and is inside the cabinet. You can easily access it by visualizing the faucet running down into the cabinet.
If you do this, you will see a valve that is near the pipe going into the faucet. You will want to spin this to turn off the water.
2. Remove The Faucet Handle
The next step is to remove the faucet handle.
You will have to take the faucet handle off to access the cartridge. Remember, the cartridge is inside the handle and cannot be accessed by removing a portion of the faucet.
If you get rid of the handle, you are going to have full access to the cartridge that is nestled inside. Be patient with it and make sure not to yank it free.
This will preserve its performance and ensure it is easy to fix when needed.
3. Remove Cartridge Using Wrench
You will want to take the time to remove the cartridge from the faucet handle.
To do this, you are going to use a wrench that will ensure you can easily grip the cartridge. As soon as you do this, you will want to spin it counter-clockwise.
This should get the cartridge to come out of its place.
You will want to do this calmy to avoid ruining the threads that are holding the cartridge in place. This is a must.
4. Clean The Debris
Now it is time to begin the repair or maintenance work.
The goal is to look at the clogged cartridge in the kitchen faucet and begin to clean all noticeable debris. The idea is to make sure the debris is gone and doesn’t get in the way of the water flowing through.
This is often a reason why the water pressure drops in a kitchen sink.
Clean the debris or replace the cartridge if it is showing signs of aging. For most situations, it’s better to replace the cartridge as you will know it’s brand new.
5. Re-Install The Cartridge
The last step is to simply re-install the cartridge back to where it was.
You will want to make sure it is as tight as it needs to be. This is to guarantee appropriate results and ensure it doesn’t get damaged later on.
If you don’t install it properly, it might start leaking and that can leave quite a mess.
Make sure to test for low cold water pressure in the kitchen sink. This will let you know whether or not the solution has worked.
Final Thoughts
These are the reasons you are dealing with low water pressure in a kitchen sink but nowhere else.
Follow the steps listed here to make sure you are increasing the water pressure in the kitchen sink. Whether it is a clogged cartridge or a blocked aerator, the goal is to remove them and then clean the debris inside.
This will ensure the water pressure rises in the kitchen sink. If there is no pressure in the kitchen but everywhere else then these solutions will help.
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