CSLB C-36 Plumbing ContractorService, Repair, and MaintenanceEasy
A client reports that their kitchen sink's hot water faucet has significantly reduced flow compared to the cold water side, and it's worse than it used to be. The issue is isolated to this single hot water faucet. What is the most probable cause?
- AA clogged aerator or restrictor in the affected faucet.
- BA blockage in the main hot water supply line to the house.
- CA failing pressure reducing valve (PRV) for the whole house.
- DA widespread issue with the water heater's dip tube.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. A clogged aerator or restrictor in the affected faucet.
Since the problem is isolated to a single hot water faucet, a localized blockage within that faucet itself, such as a clogged aerator, is the most common and easiest to diagnose cause.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. A blockage in the main hot water line would affect all hot water faucets, not just one.
- C. A failing PRV would affect both hot and cold water pressure throughout the entire house.
- D. A dip tube issue typically leads to intermittent or no hot water, not specifically reduced flow at a single faucet while others are fine.
Single Faucet Flow Restriction
Reduced water flow at an individual faucet, often caused by localized blockages within the faucet components.
- Typically isolated to one specific faucet, affecting either hot or cold water, or both.
- Common culprits include clogged aerators, mineral deposits in cartridges, or debris in supply lines.
- Troubleshooting usually starts with inspecting the faucet head components.
Memory trick: One faucet low, check parts below.