Bathroom faucet has low pressure

Symptoms

• Faucet trickles or sputters
• Flow is weak on both hot and cold
• Visible white or green crust on the spout tip
• Flow was normal before a recent repair or shutoff

Likely causes

• CommonClogged aeratorBathroom faucets used less often accumulate more scale between cleanings.
• PossibleSediment stirred up after nearby plumbing workRepairs elsewhere in the house can dislodge debris that lodges in this faucet.
• PossiblePartly closed shutoff valveOften overlooked after under-sink work.
• PossibleFailing cartridgeEspecially likely if the faucet is many years old.

What to do

1. Unscrew the aerator from the faucet tip using pliers wrapped in a cloth to avoid scratching it.
2. Rinse out visible debris, then soak the aerator in vinegar for 30 minutes to dissolve mineral scale.
3. Scrub the screen gently with an old toothbrush and rinse well before reinstalling.
4. Check that both shutoff valves under the sink are turned fully open.
5. Run the faucet for a minute after reinstalling the aerator to flush out any loosened debris.
6. If flow is still weak, remove the aerator again and test flow directly from the spout to isolate the cause.
7. If direct spout flow is also weak, the cartridge inside likely needs replacing.

Tools and parts

• Pliers
• Old toothbrush
• Vinegar

When to call a pro

Call a plumber if cleaning the aerator doesn't help, especially on an older faucet that may need a new cartridge.

Safety