How to Fix Low Water Pressure in a Faucet or Shower
- Section
- Plumbing
- Read time
- 2 min
- Updated
If only one faucet or shower has weak flow, the problem is almost always mineral buildup or debris in the aerator or shower head. If the whole house has low pressure, see the end of this guide.
Quick answer
- Unscrew the aerator from the tip of the faucet.
- Rinse out debris and soak the parts in white vinegar for an hour.
- Scrub with an old toothbrush and screw it back on.
- Do the same for shower heads, or soak them in a bag of vinegar.
In this guide
Clean a faucet aerator
- Plug the drain so small parts can’t fall in.
- Unscrew the aerator at the tip of the spout, turning it counterclockwise when looking down from above. If it’s tight, wrap it with tape or a rag and use pliers gently.
- Take it apart, noting the order of the screen and washer.
- Rinse out grit, then soak the parts in white vinegar for 1 hour to dissolve minerals.
- Scrub with a toothbrush, rinse, and reassemble.
- Flush the faucet without the aerator for a few seconds before screwing it back on.
Some pull-down kitchen faucets have a hidden aerator or a filter screen where the hose connects. Check the manual.
Clean a shower head
Without removing it: fill a plastic bag with white vinegar, slip it over the shower head so the nozzles are submerged, and secure it with a rubber band. Leave it a few hours or overnight. Run the shower to rinse it.
If you remove it: unscrew it, soak it in vinegar, and clean the inlet screen. Wrap the threads with new plumber’s tape before reinstalling.
Many shower heads also have a flow restrictor that can clog. Clean it, but leave it in place. It’s often required by water-efficiency rules.
Only hot water is weak?
The water heater may have sediment buildup, or the hot side of the faucet cartridge may be clogged. Try cleaning the aerator first. Flushing a water heater follows the manufacturer’s instructions.
Whole house has low pressure?
- Make sure the main shutoff valve is fully open.
- If you have a pressure regulator (a bell-shaped valve near the main line), it may need adjustment or replacement.
- Ask neighbors. It could be a water utility issue.
- Old galvanized pipes can clog inside over time. A plumber can check them.
Safety first Turn off power or water before working on fixtures and appliances, follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and call a licensed pro for gas, major electrical, or structural work.