Low water pressure at a single faucet is a common but frustrating issue for homeowners across the Jersey Shore and beyond. Whether it’s your kitchen sink, bathroom vanity, or outdoor spigot, that feeble trickle can disrupt routines and signal underlying plumbing problems. If you’re looking to fix low water pressure in your home, Breakwater Plumbing understands how important consistent water flow is to your comfort and peace of mind. Our highly qualified, fully insured technicians have seen—and solved—it all. Here’s your trusted guide to diagnosing and fixing low water pressure at a single faucet, so you can restore flow and confidence quickly.

fix low water pressure

Why Single Faucet Water Pressure Drops

Water pressure problems isolated to one faucet are usually caused by localized issues, not your whole-home plumbing. The most likely culprits include clogged aerators, faulty cartridges, partially closed valves, supply line restrictions, or even hidden leaks. By narrowing the problem to a single fixture, you can often resolve the issue without major plumbing work—or stress.

5 Steps to Fix Low Water Pressure at a Single Faucet

1. Clean or Replace the Faucet Aerator

Why this matters:
The aerator is a small screen at the tip of your faucet that mixes air with water, providing a smooth flow. Over time, mineral deposits, sediment, or debris can clog the aerator, drastically reducing water pressure.

How to do it:

  • Unscrew the aerator from the faucet tip (use gentle pliers if needed).
  • Rinse out debris and soak the aerator in white vinegar for 30 minutes to dissolve mineral buildup.
  • Scrub with an old toothbrush and rinse thoroughly.
  • Reattach or replace with a new aerator if cleaning doesn’t restore flow.

Pro tip:
If you have hard water at your Jersey Shore home, clean aerators every few months to prevent future blockages.

2. Check and Open Shutoff Valves

Why this matters:
A partially closed shutoff valve under the sink can restrict water flow, resulting in low pressure at just one faucet.

How to do it:

  • Locate the water supply valves under the affected sink.
  • Turn them counterclockwise to ensure they’re fully open.
  • Test the faucet again for improved flow.

Pro tip:
If valves are difficult to turn or leak, schedule a service call. Breakwater Plumbing can replace corroded or faulty valves for long-term reliability.

3. Inspect the Faucet Cartridge or Washer

Why this matters:
Modern faucets use cartridges or washers to control water flow. Wear, mineral buildup, or debris inside the cartridge can block water, causing pressure loss.

How to do it:

  • Turn off water supply valves.
  • Remove the faucet handle and access the cartridge.
  • Inspect for visible debris or wear, and soak in vinegar if needed.
  • Replace the cartridge or washer if cleaning doesn’t resolve the problem.

Pro tip:
Always bring the old cartridge to the hardware store or consult your faucet’s manual to ensure you get the correct replacement.

4. Examine the Supply Lines for Kinks or Blockages

Why this matters:
Flexible supply lines connect the shutoff valves to your faucet. If these lines are kinked, bent, or clogged with sediment, they’ll limit water flow.

How to do it:

  • Inspect both hot and cold supply lines for sharp bends or visible blockages.
  • Gently straighten out any kinks.
  • If lines are old, corroded, or clogged, replace them with new braided stainless steel hoses.

Pro tip:
When replacing supply lines, choose high-quality materials rated for potable water to avoid future issues.

5. Look for Hidden Leaks or Plumbing Issues

Why this matters:
Occasionally, a hidden leak or pipe corrosion behind the wall or under the sink can cause localized low pressure.

How to do it:

  • Check for damp areas, mold, or musty odors under the sink.
  • Examine the cabinet and floor for signs of water damage.
  • If you suspect a leak, call Breakwater Plumbing for non-invasive leak detection and targeted repairs.

Pro tip:
Early leak detection saves you from major water damage and expensive repairs down the line.

What If None of These Fixes Work?

Sometimes, the problem is more complex—such as an issue with the main supply branch, pressure regulators, or old galvanized pipes. If you’ve tried these steps and still have low water pressure at a faucet, it’s time to call in the professionals. Breakwater Plumbing’s team uses advanced diagnostic tools to find and solve even the trickiest plumbing problems, ensuring your water flows perfectly—guaranteed.

The Breakwater Plumbing Promise

At Breakwater Plumbing, we treat every customer like family. Our friendly, professional team takes the time to understand your exact needs and explains every step in clear, easy-to-understand language. We never pressure you into unnecessary repairs. Our fully qualified and insured technicians are experts at quickly resolving low water pressure issues at any fixture, and all our work is backed by a strong guarantee. You can rest easy knowing your plumbing problems are fixed right the first time, every time.

Preventive Tips for Consistent Water Pressure

  • Clean aerators and showerheads regularly, especially in hard water areas.
  • Schedule annual plumbing inspections to catch issues early.
  • Upgrade old, corroded supply lines and valves.
  • Install a whole-house sediment filter to protect faucets and appliances.
  • Address leaks or drips promptly to prevent pressure loss and water waste.

When to Call a Professional

  • Persistent low water pressure after DIY troubleshooting
  • Visible leaks, moisture, or water damage under the sink or behind walls
  • Difficulty operating shutoff valves or replacing cartridges
  • Multiple fixtures with low pressure (could signal a larger system problem)
  • You want peace of mind with a guaranteed repair

Breakwater Plumbing’s expert technicians are ready to help—serving Manahawkin, the Jersey Shore, and beyond.

Don’t let low water pressure disrupt your daily routine. Contact Breakwater Plumbing today for fast, friendly, and guaranteed solutions. Restore your faucet’s flow and your peace of mind!

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