Top 5 Bathroom Sink Faucet Problems and Solutions

In a perfect world, our faucets would work flawlessly day in and day out. But even the best-crafted faucets are prone to issues with the high use they receive. This blog will address the top 5 bathroom sink faucet problems and provide practical solutions to restore your faucet’s optimal performance. Issues we’ll cover include:
 

• Dripping or Leaking Bathroom Sink Faucet Problems
• Low Water Pressure
• Faucet Handle Problems
• Spraying or Uneven Water Flow
• Poor Temperature Control

Dripping Faucet

Of all the bathroom sink faucet problems, a dripping faucet is perhaps the most common. It can be a costly nuisance as it wastes water. The most common cause of a leaking faucet is a faulty cartridge. The cartridge is the component inside the faucet that allows water to pass through it before it reaches the aerator. With single-hole bathroom faucets, the cartridge is positioned below the handle and securely placed inside the faucet’s body. 3-hole bathroom faucets have two cartridges – one controls the hot water, and the other the cold.
 

What Causes a Dripping Faucet?

Water contains minerals, including calcium and magnesium. “Hard water” refers to water with a higher concentration of these two minerals. Levels of water hardness vary from place to place. Hard water deposits minerals on faucet cartridges over time. The mineral build-up on the cartridge can prevent the working parts from seating properly, which allows small amounts of water to pass through the cartridge, even in the off position.
 

How to Fix a Dripping Faucet

If the cartridge construction is brass or metal, we recommend soaking it in white vinegar for 24 hours. This process can help to loosen or dissolve any calcium build-up. However, it can have mixed results and will not restore the cartridge to “good as new” status. However, it is a cost-effective place to start.
 
If you have a plastic cartridge, or if the suggestion above did not work for your brass cartridge, it is likely time to replace the cartridge. Replacing the cartridge on your faucet every few years does not mean it is poor quality. Think of changing the cartridge in a faucet as changing the batteries in a flashlight. When the flashlight’s batteries run out, we replace them to ensure the flashlight continues functioning correctly.
 
A quick tip: We have a fix if you have a dripping 3-hole faucet and can’t determine which cartridge needs a replacement! Turn the cold water supply off and see if the drip continues. If it stops, replace the cold side cartridge. If it continues, try shutting off the hot water. Replace the hot side cartridge if the drip stops after the hot water supply valve is off.
 
 

Low Water Pressure

Bathroom sink faucet problems that stem from low water pressure can be frustrating, especially when trying to wash your hands or brush your teeth. If you’ve noticed a weak stream of water coming from your bathroom faucet, several possible reasons exist.
 

Flow Restrictors

Many modern bathroom faucets utilize flow restrictors designed to reduce water usage and conserve water. These flow restrictors limit the flow rate of water passing through the spout, ultimately lowering water pressure. While they serve an essential purpose in preserving water, you may find the restriction too much for your needs.
 
If you wish to improve your water pressure by removing the flow restrictor, proceed cautiously. Before attempting to remove it, reach out to your faucet manufacturer to inquire about the specific location of the flow restrictor and its impact on the warranty. Some manufacturers may allow you to remove it without voiding the warranty, while others may not. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to avoid potential issues.
 

Dirty Aerator

An aerator is a small mesh screen at the faucet spout’s tip. It adds air to the water stream, giving the impression of a more voluminous flow while reducing water usage. However, over time, mineral deposits, sediment, and debris can accumulate on the aerator, obstructing the water flow and causing low water pressure. To fix this, follow these simple steps:
 

• Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
• Unscrew the aerator from the faucet tip. You may need a rubber strap wrench like this one if it’s too tight.
• Inspect the aerator for any clogs or build-up. Soak it in an equal mixture of water and vinegar to dissolve mineral deposits and grime. Use an old toothbrush or a small brush to clean it thoroughly.
• Rinse the aerator with water and screw it back onto the faucet.

Replacing the Aerator

Sometimes, the aerator may be damaged or worn out beyond cleaning. If cleaning doesn’t improve the water pressure, consider replacing the aerator. Most faucet aerators are similar in design and readily available at your local hardware store or directly from the manufacturer. Choose an aerator with a flow rate that suits your preferences. To replace the aerator follow these simple steps:
 

• Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
• Unscrew the aerator from the faucet tip. You may need a rubber strap wrench like this one if it’s too tight.
• Insert the replacement aerator and screw it back onto the faucet

Faucet Handle Problems

A loose single-hole faucet handle in your bathroom sink can be annoying and inconvenient. It can wobble, create an unsightly appearance, and make it difficult to control water flow and temperature. Fortunately, fixing this faucet problem is relatively simple and can be done with minimal tools and expertise.
 

What Does a Loose Faucet Handle Look Like?

A loose faucet handle occurs when the handle wobbles or moves independently of the body. This issue usually arises due to regular use, wear and tear, or improper installation. Over time, the set screw responsible for securing the handle to the stem can become loose, causing the handle to feel unstable. The set screw is a small, usually hexagonal or Allen-head screw located on the back of the faucet handle. It is responsible for holding the handle firmly on the stem extending from the cartridge. Here’s how to address this faucet problem step by step.
 

• Remove the Handle Cap: Many faucet models will have a decorative cap covering the handle’s base. This cap can be removed by gently prying it off with a flathead screwdriver. Set the cap aside for later reassembly.
• Tighten the Set Screw: You should now see the faucet handle’s base with the cap removed. Look for the set screw; it sits underneath the handle, opposite the side you use to turn the water on and off. Once you’ve located the set screw, it’s time to tighten it properly to secure the faucet handle. The set screw is typically a miniature hexagonal or Allen-head screw. You’ll need the corresponding hex key or Allen wrench to tighten it. Insert the hex key into the set screw and turn it clockwise to tighten. Apply gentle, steady pressure until the set screw is snug and the handle no longer wobbles.
• Replace the Handle Cap: Once the set screw is tight, carefully place the handle cap back over the handle’s base. Press it down firmly to snap it into place.

Spraying or Uneven Water Flow

Experiencing uneven water flow or an irregular spraying pattern from your bathroom sink faucet can be frustrating and inconvenient. When your faucet produces an erratic stream of water or sprays water in unexpected directions, it’s typically a sign of a clogged aerator. The aerator is a small device at the tip of the faucet spout designed to mix air with the water, ensuring a steady and even flow. Over time, sediment, mineral deposits, or other particles can accumulate, disrupting the water flow.
 

Replacing the Aerator

While you might want to clean the aerator by soaking it in vinegar and water, this rarely provides a lasting solution for this particular issue. The best course of action is to replace the aerator. For more detailed instructions on replacing a faucet aerator, refer to this blog’s Low Water Pressure section. The process for removing and replacing the aerator is the same, regardless of whether you’re addressing low water pressure or uneven water flow.
 
 

Poor Temperature Control

Poor temperature control in your bathroom sink faucet can make achieving the desired water temperature challenging. This issue typically stems from a faulty cartridge within the faucet.
When your faucet struggles to maintain a consistent water temperature, it’s often a sign that the internal cartridge, responsible for regulating hot and cold water flow, is malfunctioning. Over time, cartridges can wear out, leading to unsteady water temperature. This fact makes it essential to address this issue promptly.
 

Replacing the Cartridge

To resolve the faucet problem of poor temperature control, you’ll likely need to replace the cartridge. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to go about it:
 

• Check the Warranty: Determine whether your faucet is still under warranty. Faucet warranties can vary, and some may cover cartridge replacement. Check the paperwork that came with your faucet or visit the manufacturer’s website for warranty information.
• Contact the Retailer or Manufacturer: If your faucet is under warranty, contact either the retailer where you purchased the faucet or the manufacturer directly. They will guide you through the warranty process, which may involve sending you a replacement cartridge free of charge.
• Purchasing a Cartridge: If your faucet is not under warranty or the warranty doesn’t cover cartridge replacement, you’ll need to buy a new cartridge. Contact the manufacturer or visit their website to identify the cartridge model matching your faucet. Once you have this information, you can purchase the cartridge from a hardware store, plumbing supply shop, or online retailer.
• Cartridge Installation: Installing a new cartridge can vary depending on your faucet’s style and model. Cartridge replacement typically involves disassembling the faucet handle, removing the old cartridge, and inserting the new one. You can find detailed instructions for cartridge replacement in the faucet’s user manual. However, since the process can vary significantly between faucets, contacting the manufacturer for specific installation advice is essential.
• Professional Installation: If you’re uncomfortable with DIY plumbing or the installation instructions seem complex, consider hiring a professional plumber to replace the cartridge. They have the experience and tools needed to complete the job correctly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, maintaining a properly functioning bathroom sink faucet is essential for the convenience and efficiency of your daily routines. The top 5 common bathroom sink faucet problems discussed in this blog – dripping faucets, low water pressure, faucet handle issues, spraying or uneven water flow, and poor temperature control – can all disrupt your bathroom experience. However, you can tackle these issues effectively with the solutions provided.
 
From simple fixes like descaling a dripping faucet or cleaning an aerator to more complex tasks like tightening a loose faucet handle or replacing a faulty cartridge, these solutions empower you to keep your bathroom sink faucet in optimal working condition. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to these bathroom sink faucet problems can extend the lifespan of your faucet, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience for years to come.
 
 
Are these faucet issues scaring you? Don’t worry! Borhn’s faucets come with a lifetime warranty and replacement parts are provided for free. Experience peace of mind, and Explore our Faucet Offering.