How to Fix Low Water Pressure in a Bathroom Sink

Water pressure issues in a bathroom sink are rarely caused by a failure of the plumbing system itself; they are almost always a symptom of localized mineral buildup or a slightly closed supply valve. When your faucet starts trickling instead of flowing, the culprit is usually sitting right at the very tip of the spout, choking the flow before it ever reaches the air. Restoring full pressure is a straightforward task that requires nothing more than a wrench and a bit of patience. By clearing out the calcified deposits that collect in the aerator and ensuring your supply lines are fully open, you can save yourself a service call. A job done well results in a consistent, aerated stream that functions exactly as it did the day the faucet was installed.

1. Unscrew and Inspect. Unscrew the aerator from the end of the faucet using an adjustable wrench or pliers, being careful to protect the finish with a cloth. Inspect the screen inside for trapped sediment or mineral deposits.
2. Dissolve the Buildup. Soak the removed aerator in white vinegar for thirty minutes to dissolve hard water buildup. If the mesh screen is damaged or heavily corroded, replace it with a new aerator of the same size.
3. Open Both Valves. Look under the sink to locate the two shut-off valves. Ensure both the hot and cold handles are turned fully counter-clockwise to the open position.
4. Purge the Lines. With the aerator still removed, place a bucket over the open faucet end. Turn the faucet handles to the full 'on' position to flush out any loose sediment from the supply lines.
5. Check for Blockages. If flow remains poor, disconnect the flexible supply hoses from the faucet and the shut-off valves. Check for kinks in the hose or blockages in the valve outlet.
6. Reassemble and Verify. Reattach the supply hoses, tighten the aerator back onto the faucet, and slowly turn on the water. Check for any leaks at the connection points.