Symptoms
- Water trickles instead of flowing
- Spray pattern is uneven or splits into odd streams
- Pull-down sprayer is weaker than the main spout
- Flow was fine recently and dropped gradually
Likely causes
- CommonClogged aerator or spray headMineral scale narrows the small holes over time.
- CommonClogged pull-down sprayer diverterSediment collects in the diverter that switches between stream and spray.
- PossiblePartly closed shutoff valveCheck that valves under the sink are fully open.
- PossibleWorn cartridge restricting flowSome cartridges narrow internally as they wear or scale up.
What to do
- Remove the aerator or spray head and inspect it for visible mineral buildup or debris.
- Soak the removed part in a bowl of white vinegar for 30 minutes, then scrub gently with an old toothbrush.
- Rinse thoroughly and reattach, then test water flow at both stream and spray settings.
- If it's a pull-down faucet, also check the diverter valve inside the faucet body per the manufacturer's instructions.
- Confirm both shutoff valves under the sink are fully open.
- If flow is still weak, disconnect the supply lines briefly and run them into a bucket to rule out a line-side clog.
- If lines flow well but the faucet doesn't, the cartridge is likely restricting flow and should be replaced.
Tools and parts
- Pliers
- Old toothbrush
- Vinegar
Kitchen faucet aerator or spray headSearch: “pull down faucet spray head replacement”
When to call a pro
Call a plumber if flow stays weak after cleaning all removable parts, which usually means an internal cartridge or supply issue.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.