Two common causes of low water pressure in your kitchen tap are a blocked cartridge and the second is a blocked air aerator. This problem can occur with any kitchen tap. It is frustrating but usually has a simple solution.
How to Fix Low Pressure in Tap
Start by checking the water pressure coming in. Make sure the valve is open. You might find that the valve opening into your home is clogged. You can do this yourself or contact a plumber if you're not confident.
A valve can cause low water pressure, but it is not the cause. Next, check your plumbing system for leaks. Leaks can cause pressure to drop throughout your home. Naturally, any water leaking from the pipes could cause serious damage. To prevent further damage, this should be addressed immediately.
The Two Most Common Culprits
The Aerator – An apparatus that attaches to the tap spout is called an aerator. It is designed to limit water flow and infuse air into the water. A blocked aerator can cause low water pressure. This is especially true if it has been blocked for an extended period.
These five steps can be used to repair a blocked aerator.
1. Install a Plugin on the Sink's Drain – Before you do anything else, place a plug in the drain of your sink. This will stop any parts from accidentally falling down the drain hole.
2. The Aerator can be removed - It should be simple to remove the aerator. You can remove the aerator from the tap's end with pliers. To prevent any damage, wrap duct tape around each tap's end if you use pliers.
3. Clean and Dismantle - Take apart the aerator, and clean it with a toothbrush. The mineral deposits may become encrusted. To dissolve these deposits, boil the aerator with vinegar. To unblock the holes more quickly, you can stick a safety pin into each one. You can also fill a bag with vinegar and water. Then, secure the bag to the tap head using a rubber band. These techniques combined should dissolve any mineral buildup on the tap head.
4. Before replacing the aerator, test the tap - To test the water pressure, you should run the tap with the aerator off. The problem is solved if the water can generally run without the aerator.
5. Replace the Aerator - After replacing the tap's aerator, recheck the water pressure to ensure it operates at standard pressure.
2. Cartridge
If the problem is not with the aerator, it could be with the cartridge.
1. Install a plug into the sink's drain - The plug will prevent any debris from falling down the drain.
2. Turn off the water valves - These can be found under the sink. Both water valves must be turned off
3. Take off the tap handle - Use a flat head screwdriver to remove the protective cap. To do this, you may need an Allen wrench (also known as a Hex Key).
4. To remove the cartridge, you must first remove the cartridge nut with a wrench. Make sure you place all pieces in the correct order.
5. Clean the Cartridge and Replace It - Remove any obstructions from the cartridge. Reinstall the cartridge precisely as you did when you took it out.
6. Turn on the Water and Test- All water valves below the sink need to be turned on again. Check the water flow. The water pressure should return to normal.
A Simple Solution
Low water pressure is usually caused by simple reasons. These instructions will help you avoid having to call a plumber.