Restore Your Water Pressure Without Calling a Plumber

One of the most common complaints plumbers receive is that water pressure at a sink tap has diminished.

If you notice this problem in your home, here is something to try yourself before calling for professional help.

At the end of the spout on most faucets is a small knob called an “aerator.” The aerator contains a plastic or metal filter that catches small particles of debris carried in the water. Over time, these particles accumulate to the point that the water flow is restricted, so the remedy is to clean the aerator.

To do this, remove the aerator with a pair of pliers (wrap the jaws with tape to prevent scratches). Unscrew it the same direction you would unscrew a light bulb. Once the aerator is off, run the hot and cold water for 10 seconds to flush the lines.

Next, remove the filter screens from the body of the aerator with a small screwdriver or ice pick. Use an old toothbrush to clean any foreign matter from the screens. Reassemble the parts in the reverse order of how you took them apart and screw the aerator back onto the spout.

Odds are the water pressure will be greatly improved and you will have saved yourself a plumber’s service charge. Clean the aerator whenever you notice the water flow dropping or getting irregular.