Plumbing
Why Does My Faucet Have Low Water Pressure? 8 Things to Check
If other fixtures have normal flow, diagnose the affected faucet as a local restriction. Comparing hot and cold flow can narrow the problem quickly.
1. Compare another fixture
Turn on a nearby faucet or shower. Normal flow elsewhere points toward the affected faucet rather than a whole-house pressure problem.
2. Compare hot and cold
Weak flow on both sides suggests a shared restriction such as the aerator or faucet body. If only hot or cold is weak, focus on that supply path or the faucet's internal valve.
3. Check the shutoff valves
Look under the sink and confirm the hot and cold valves are open. A partially closed valve can restrict flow at one fixture.
4. Clean the aerator
Remove an accessible aerator and clear mineral deposits according to the faucet manufacturer's instructions. Reinstall it securely without overtightening.
5. Inspect a pull-out hose
For pull-down or pull-out faucets, look for a visible kink or crushed section that could restrict flow.
6. Think about recent plumbing work
If the problem began after a repair or water shutoff, debris may have entered or a connection may not be fully open.
7. Consider the cartridge or valve
Persistent low flow after external checks can point to an internal cartridge, screen, or valve restriction. Use the model's service instructions before disassembly.
8. Recheck the whole-house pattern
If several fixtures have low flow, stop treating this as a faucet-only problem and investigate the broader plumbing system.
When to call a plumber
Get professional help when the restriction persists, a valve is seized or leaking, multiple fixtures are affected, or the repair requires internal work you are not comfortable performing.
Quick checklist
- Compared flow at another fixture
- Compared hot and cold flow
- Checked both shutoff valves
- Cleaned an accessible aerator
- Checked a pull-out hose for kinks
- Considered recent plumbing work