The most likely culprit is debris that has become trapped, either in the supply lines or inside the faucet itself. You can clear it with a simple procedure called “flushing the lines.”
Check for Deposits and Debris
Use your little finger or a small screwdriver to check inside the faucet spout for any parts that may be stuck inside. If they are stuck in place with mineral deposits, you may need to pry out the parts with a screwdriver. Also, clear out any deposits or debris from inside the spout.
Low water pressure in sink faucet
Clogged aerators and clogged cartridges are two of the most common causes of low water pressure in a sink.
Signs that a cartridge faucet needs repair are water dripping from the spout, difficulty in adjusting the water temperature, hot water entering cold water outlets like toilet supply lines and inadequately heated water at some faucets.
Water dripping out of the faucet can be a sign that the cartridge is bad. Another telltale sign is difficulty getting the desired water temperature.
Clogged aerator screen
The aerator is the first to check when a faucet has low water pressure. Most faucets have aerators at the base or inserted inside the spout. Sediments, mineral deposits, or small debris can clog the aerator over time, which results in low water pressure.
One of the most common causes of low pressure to a kitchen or bathroom sink faucet is debris or mineral buildup in the aerator. The aerator is the tiny screen that you see at the end of your faucet.
Fill a plastic bag with half water and half vinegar, ensuring there is enough liquid to submerge the faucet head. Put the liquid-filled bag over the faucet head and secure it with a rubber band. Let stand for 30 minutes to one hour. For more sensitive fixture finishes, do not surpass 30 minutes.
Most likely, the aerator is clogged. Unscrew the nozzle and check for a broken or misaligned washer. Next you'll likely see mineral crumbles and debris collected at the screen.
Rust or buildup
The most common issue that arises from a faucet is buildup on the fixture.
Since the EPA limits water flow at 2.2 gpm, most modern faucets now come with a pre-installed aerator that limits the flow to 2.2 gpm while also infusing the water stream with air to reduce splashing.
Make sure there's no water flowing before replacing a sink's faucet cartridge. Follow these steps to shut off the water supply to your sink: Use the shut-off valve underneath the sink to cut off the water supply. Be sure the valve closes completely.
Both kitchen and bathroom faucets have a lifespan of between 15 and 20 years. This means that the cartridge these faucets come with have a similar lifespan. However, how long the cartridge actually lasts depends on a number of factors including the construction of the faucet and water quality.
Plumbers charge $90 to $270 for labor to replace a shower valve cartridge. A shower faucet cartridge costs $10 to $80 for the part alone, depending on the brand, type, and material. How much will your project cost?
What Is Calcium Buildup on Your Faucets? Calcium buildup is also called limescale. This happens because water that contains dissolved calcium salt is flowing through your showerheads and faucets. This is why you have that white crusty-looking buildup that is all but impossible to clean away.
Solid-brass bodies last longest and require the least care, especially with hard water, which corrodes lesser metals. At $150 or so to start, these faucets also cost the most. If you aren't sure whether a fitting is solid brass, pick it up.