Turning on your brand new faucet and getting uneven bursts of water instead of a strong, steady stream is a frustrating way to start your day. No one wants to deal with a sputtering faucet when taking a shower, dishwashing, or preparing meals. However, this is a common plumbing problem in many homes. If you’re experiencing this issue, take a breath. In most cases, it is caused by a clogged aerator, and it’s something you can fix yourself. But there are more complex faucet problems that should be left to a skilled plumber in Wichita, KS.
Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Wichita is the name you can rely on when you need faucet replacement or repair. Let’s look at the common culprits behind faucet sputtering and how to clean a clogged aerator.
What Causes Faucet Sputtering?
- Air in the Pipes: If the municipal water supply was recently shut off or you just had plumbing work done, air gets pushed into the lines. You can usually fix this by running all the faucets and flushing toilets for 5 to 10 minutes to purge the air pockets.
- Clogged Faucet Aerator: Sediment and mineral buildup often clog the small screen at the tip of the faucet, which restricts flow and causes sputtering. A clogged faucet aerator not only causes sputtering, but it can also reduce water pressure and unusual noises when a faucet is turned on. Simply unscrew the aerator and soak it in white vinegar to clean it. Our plumbers recommend installing a water softener to combat the effects of hard water on your faucets and other fixtures.
- Worn-Out Valve Cartridge: Over time, the internal valve (especially in single-handle faucets) wears down, allowing air to leak in. You may need to replace the cartridge. Remove the handle by unscrewing its set screw, unscrew the retaining nut, and pull out the old cartridge. Insert the new cartridge and reassemble the faucet. If you need professional help, reach out to a licensed plumber.
How to Clean the Aerator
Cleaning a faucet aerator is a simple project that most homeowners can complete in just a few minutes.
Start by placing a towel or sink stopper over the drain to prevent small parts from falling in.
Next, carefully unscrew the aerator from the end of the faucet. Many aerators can be removed by hand, while others may require adjustable pliers. Wrapping the aerator with a cloth before using pliers helps protect the finish from scratches.
Once removed, rinse away loose debris and inspect the screen for mineral buildup. Soaking the aerator in white vinegar for 30 to 60 minutes helps dissolve stubborn calcium and lime deposits. After soaking, gently scrub the screen with a soft brush and rinse thoroughly before reinstalling it. Turn the water back on and check the flow. In many cases, the sputtering disappears immediately. If the problem persists, get in touch with a local plumbing repair service for a comprehensive inspection.
Do You Need Faucet Replacement? Contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Wichita Today
Sputtering faucets are an indication of air in the pipes, a clogged faucet aerator, or a worn-out valve cartridge. These issues are fairly straightforward to diagnose and fix as long as you are equipped with the right tools and have basic plumbing skills. However, it is important to know when to replace your faucets. If you’ve noticed persistent leaks, visible rust or corrosion, or stiff handles, it’s advisable to opt for faucet replacement. New faucets can improve your home’s aesthetics, save water, and improve functionality. Reach out to Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Wichita for all your faucet needs.
