Experiencing a kitchen sink that refuses to dispense water can be incredibly frustrating. From preparing meals to cleaning up afterwards, a functioning sink is essential to daily life. Before calling a plumber, there are several common issues you can investigate yourself. This guide will walk you through the most likely culprits and provide step-by-step instructions to diagnose and potentially resolve the problem, saving you time and money.
Common Causes and Solutions
1. Check the Water Supply
The most basic, yet often overlooked, step is to verify that your water supply is actually turned on. It sounds simple, but it’s a common mistake.
- Main Water Valve: Ensure the main water valve to your house is fully open. This is typically located near your water meter.
- Under-Sink Shut-Off Valves: Check the hot and cold water shut-off valves located directly under the sink. Make sure both are completely open. They should be turned counter-clockwise as far as they will go.
2. Faucet Aerator Clog
The aerator, the small screen at the end of your faucet, can easily become clogged with mineral deposits and debris, restricting water flow.
- Unscrew the aerator from the faucet. You may need pliers, but be careful not to damage it.
- Disassemble the aerator and rinse each component thoroughly under running water. Use a small brush or toothpick to remove stubborn debris.
- Soak the aerator parts in white vinegar for about an hour to dissolve mineral buildup.
- Reassemble the aerator and screw it back onto the faucet.
3. Clogged Cartridge or Valve
Inside your faucet, cartridges or valves control the water flow. These can become clogged or damaged over time.
- Identify Your Faucet Type: Determine whether your faucet has a cartridge or a valve system. Single-handle faucets usually have cartridges, while two-handle faucets often have valves.
- Consult Your Faucet’s Manual: Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for replacing the cartridge or valve; This will typically involve turning off the water supply, disassembling the faucet, and replacing the worn part.
- Consider Professional Help: If you are uncomfortable working with plumbing components, it’s best to call a qualified plumber.
4. Frozen Pipes
In colder climates, frozen pipes can prevent water from flowing. This is especially likely if your pipes are located in an unheated area.
Thawing Frozen Pipes:
- Apply Heat: Use a hair dryer, heat lamp, or electric heat tape to gently warm the frozen pipe. Never use an open flame.
- Wrap with Towels: Wrap the pipe with towels soaked in hot water.
- Leave Faucet Open: As the pipe thaws, leave the faucet slightly open to allow water to flow and relieve pressure.
Factoid: A dripping faucet can waste up to 3,000 gallons of water per year! Fixing leaky faucets promptly can save you money and conserve water.
5. Kinked or Damaged Supply Lines
The flexible supply lines that connect your faucet to the water pipes can become kinked or damaged, restricting water flow.
Inspection and Replacement:
- Check for Kinks: Carefully inspect the supply lines under your sink for any kinks or bends.
- Look for Damage: Examine the lines for any signs of damage, such as cracks or leaks.
- Replace Damaged Lines: If you find any damage, replace the supply lines with new ones. Be sure to turn off the water supply before disconnecting the old lines.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I know if my faucet aerator is clogged?
A: If the water flow from your faucet is weak or erratic, or if the water sprays in different directions, it’s likely that your aerator is clogged.
Q: What tools do I need to replace a faucet cartridge?
A: The tools you’ll need will vary depending on the faucet model, but common tools include a screwdriver, pliers, an adjustable wrench, and potentially a cartridge puller.
Q: How can I prevent my pipes from freezing?
A: Insulate exposed pipes, especially those in unheated areas. During extremely cold weather, let faucets drip slightly to keep water moving through the pipes.
Q: When should I call a plumber?
A: If you’ve tried the troubleshooting steps above and your sink still isn’t working, or if you’re uncomfortable working with plumbing components, it’s best to call a qualified plumber.
Q: What does it mean when only hot or cold water won’t come out?
A: If only one temperature of water isn’t working, the problem is likely isolated to that specific supply line or valve. Check the shut-off valve under the sink for that side, and then inspect the cartridge or valve within the faucet itself.
