Low Water Pressure in Kitchen Sink? Here’s What to Check

Turning on the tap and getting only a weak trickle of water can be frustrating—especially when you’re trying to rinse dishes or fill a pot. If you’re dealing with low water pressure in your kitchen sink, you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common plumbing complaints we hear at Clog Heroes in Fredericksburg, VA.

Let’s walk through the most likely causes and how to troubleshoot them before calling in the pros.

A Clogged Aerator Can Cause Low Water Pressure in Kitchen Sink

One of the simplest fixes for low water pressure in a kitchen sink is a clogged faucet aerator. The aerator is the small screen screwed onto the end of the faucet. Over time, sediment and mineral buildup can block the holes and reduce water flow.

You can clean it by unscrewing it (usually by hand or with pliers wrapped in a towel), rinsing the screen under water, and soaking it in vinegar to break down any buildup. After it’s clean, screw it back on and test the flow.

If the pressure improves—problem solved.

Is It a Hot or Cold Water Problem?

Next, figure out whether the pressure issue affects both hot and cold water, or just one. If you notice low water pressure only on the hot side, you might be dealing with:

• A partially closed valve

• Sediment buildup in your water heater

• A failing hot water line to the faucet

If both hot and cold are affected equally, it’s more likely something at the faucet itself or further back in the plumbing system.

Shutoff Valves Might Be the Cause of Low Water Pressure in Kitchen Sink

Underneath your kitchen sink, you’ll find two small shutoff valves—one for hot water and one for cold. If one or both are only partially open, it can restrict water flow to the faucet.

Make sure both valves are fully open by turning them counterclockwise until they stop. If the pressure improves, you’ve found your fix.

Clogged Supply Lines Can Reduce Sink Pressure

If the aerator and shutoff valves are fine, the next thing to check is the supply lines—the flexible hoses that connect the shutoff valves to the faucet. Mineral buildup or debris in these lines can restrict water flow over time.

Disconnect the lines from the faucet (after shutting off the water), and inspect for clogs or sediment. If they’re clogged, you may need to flush or replace them.

Faulty Faucet Cartridge May Lead to Low Water Pressure

Inside your faucet is a small component called a cartridge, which controls how water flows through the spout. If debris or mineral buildup blocks the cartridge, it can cause low water pressure in the kitchen sink—especially in single-handle faucets.

Replacing a faucet cartridge is usually a quick and affordable fix. If you’re not sure how to do it yourself, our team at Clog Heroes can handle it quickly and cleanly.

Are There Leaks in the Plumbing System?

Leaks in the pipes leading to your kitchen sink can also result in reduced water pressure. You might not always see visible water—some leaks happen behind walls or under flooring.

Signs of a leak include:

• Water stains under the cabinet

• A musty smell or dampness

• Higher-than-normal water bills

If you suspect a leak, it’s best to shut off the water supply and have a licensed plumber inspect the area.

Check for Issues with the Water Heater

If the low pressure is only affecting hot water, your water heater could be part of the problem. Sediment buildup in the tank, partially closed valves, or failing components can all restrict hot water flow.

Water heaters should be flushed once a year to remove sediment. If it’s been a while since yours was serviced, this could be the cause of your kitchen sink pressure issue.

Municipal Supply Problems or Whole-Home Pressure Issues

Sometimes, the problem isn’t in your home at all. Low pressure at a single faucet could point to a local water main issue or a larger pressure problem in your plumbing system.

Try running other faucets around the house:

• If pressure is low everywhere, you might need a pressure regulator adjustment or main line inspection.

• If the kitchen sink is the only issue, it’s likely isolated to the fixture or its immediate plumbing.

When to Call Clog Heroes for Low Water Pressure in Kitchen Sink

If you’ve checked the aerator, valves, supply lines, and cartridge—and you’re still facing low water pressure in your kitchen sink—it’s time to call a licensed plumber. At Clog Heroes, we’ll inspect every part of your plumbing system, locate the root of the problem, and fix it without the guesswork.

Call Clog Heroes in Fredericksburg, VA

Don’t let low water pressure slow you down. Whether it’s a simple aerator fix or a hidden plumbing issue, Clog Heroes is here to help. We’re proud to serve homeowners in Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, and the surrounding areas with fast, honest plumbing service.

Give us a call today to schedule your kitchen sink repair—and get the water pressure you need back in action.