What Causes Low Water Pressure in Kitchen Sink

Importance of Proper Water Pressure In Your Home

If you've ever gotten home from a stressful day at work, you know how relaxing it can be to take a hot shower. However, sometimes you turn on the water, and it's hardly more than a drizzle.

What a disappointment that is.

It is also a warning sign.

As crucial as relaxation is, having the correct water pressure is about more than just your comfort. Achieving and maintaining the proper water pressure is about preserving your pipes.

Your plumbing system is designed to help the water flow at just the right speed. The incorrect speed will negatively affect the water line throughout the whole house.

Don't just think you can get by with low pressure because it is an indicator of something bigger.

Causes of Low Hot Water Pressure

Municipal Water Supply Issue

The municipal water supply lines are a water system owned by the local government or municipality. A water supply of that magnitude could have several factors influencing your hot water, such as maintenance, a water main break, or high demand from your surrounding area.

If other houses in your area are also finding themselves with low water pressure, there's a good chance that the municipal supply is the issue. If this is the case, it's important to contact your local utilities to report the issue and get updates on the repair progress.

Clogged Aerator or Faucet

The small metal or plastic screen on the end of your faucet is called an aerator. Its purpose is to reduce the amount of water that comes out of the faucet without affecting the pressure.

Sometimes, faucet aerators can become blocked by mineral deposits or sediment buildup, especially if you have hard water.

If the problem of low water pressure is throughout your entire house, it probably isn't the case that every one of your faucets has a clogged aerator.

However, if it's only the kitchen sink, for example, the aerator is a pretty good guess. Don't worry; the cleaning process is simple.

Twist the aerator clockwise.

Once you get it off, remove the plastic screen inside and scrub off any debris with an old toothbrush.

If there is any stubborn buildup, you can soak the aerator in vinegar overnight. This should remove any remaining debris and correct your low water pressure problem.

Replace the screen, screw the aerator back on, and you're good!

Leaking Pipes

For obvious reasons, leaky pipes will create low water pressure.

If there is a leak, the water that should be diverted to your faucet is being let out somewhere along your water supply line. Water going where it shouldn't is an inconvenience as well as an actual issue.

A leaky pipe can quickly escalate from a small problem into something much greater. If you're concerned that this is what's going on with your water system, contact someone immediately.

Water Pressure Regulator

As the name implies, this device is used to regulate the water pressure in your house.

If it is malfunctioning, the water flow from the water supply lines into your house isn't being monitored or controlled. This can cause low pressure.

Malfunctioning Water Heater

If only the hot water has low pressure, but the cold water is doing fine, the issue is probably your water heater.

The water heater heats and delivers hot water with the correct amount of water pressure throughout the house. If the water heater isn't working properly, you may find yourself with cold water and low pressure.

A water heater can malfunction for several reasons. Here are a few:

1. Power Supply or Gas: If your hot water heater is electric, there could be an issue with a connection. It could be as simple as a tripped circuit breaker or a blown fuse. If your water heater runs on gas, it could be as straightforward as an empty gas tank.
2. Thermostat: Make sure that your thermostat is set to the correct temperature. It could either be that the temperature is set wrong or the thermostat isn't working well.
3. Sediment Buildup: Over time, sediment can pile up on the bottom of your water heater. The tank might need to be drained and flushed to remove that buildup.

Impaired Water Lines

Water lines can become impaired for a number of reasons ranging from extreme weather to tree roots growing into them. Other reasons could include the ground settling beneath your pipes, causing them to shift and become damaged, and exposure to certain corrosive chemicals.

If you notice low water pressure in your home, consider having your pipes checked.

Solutions for Low Water Pressure

Install a Water Pressure Booster

A water pressure booster will consist of a tank and a pump. This is a good option to fix low water pressure if the problem is stemming from high demand.

If the problem is a pipe leak or sediment buildup, installing a water pressure booster isn't the solution.

These can often be found at your local hardware store, but you may need help with installation since it can be very complex and potentially hazardous.

Replace Old Pipes

If your pipes are old and showing signs of decay, consider replacing them before matters become much worse.

Replacing pipes is a complex and potentially dangerous job, which means it's time to acquire the help of a plumbing professional.

Install a Water Softener

Water softeners help prevent that buildup that generates a blocked supply line. It's used to remove minerals from the water that can be hard on your appliances and clog your faucet aerator.

It is possible to install a water softener yourself if you have both plumbing and electrical experience, but it is a very complicated process. Weigh the potential risks and complications before handling such an undertaking on your own.

Prevention of Low Water Pressure

Regular Maintenance

We all know that scheduling regular maintenance for pipes you can't even see can be a mental struggle. It feels very easy to ignore the problem because it is out of sight. However, it's a very important step in avoiding massive issues with your water supply.

Trust me when I say that regular maintenance can save you much more than it costs. Think of it less like an unnecessary expense and more like car insurance.

Early Detection of Issues

Pay attention to the water pressure in you're home. If the problem is only one faucet, you can probably fix that yourself, as we have already discussed.

If the issue spreads, is sudden, or affects your entire house, please consider calling a professional plumber to take a look.

Timely Repairs

When your water pressure is low, don't put off repairs. It may seem like you can continue to deal with low water pressure and be minimally inconvenienced, but that isn't the problem. The problem is when the little problem grows into something overwhelming.

Do yourself a favor and be swift to take action and fix low water pressure.

Take Expert Help!

From correcting issues with your water line to just providing advice and counsel, professionals can help you make informed decisions.

If you're noticing issues, contact your local plumber. Using review platform's such as Google, Facebook, Yelp, and Angi's List can help you find the right professional for your needs.