Let’s be honest: high-pressure kitchen faucets are a dream until they develop quirks. We’ve heard from plenty of clients who thought a quick DIY fix would solve the problem, only to find that their faucet issues kept coming back. It can be frustrating when you just want a reliable water stream but instead get splashes, sputtering, or low flow. Having worked with homeowners to tackle these challenges, we know what tends to go wrong and why.
As trusted Eagan plumbers, we simply want what’s best for homeowners in our community by sharing insights based on our firsthand experience. In this blog, we’re breaking down the common hiccups high-pressure faucets experience — and sharing straightforward ways to fix them for good.
What Is a High Pressure Kitchen Faucet?
A high-pressure kitchen faucet is a type of faucet specifically designed to deliver water at a higher pressure level than standard faucets. These faucets are popular for their powerful water flow, which can make tasks like rinsing dishes, filling large pots, and cleaning produce faster and more efficient.
The main difference between a high pressure kitchen faucet and a regular one lies in the force and flow rate of the water. High pressure faucets are typically connected to a home’s water supply system with a higher pressure setting, or they’re engineered to increase the pressure on their own. They’re a preferred choice for homeowners who need efficient water flow for busy kitchens or who want a more powerful rinse for daily cleaning tasks.
7 Common High Pressure Kitchen Faucet Issues and How You Can Fix Them
A high pressure kitchen faucet is great for speeding up kitchen tasks, but it can also come with a few quirks like splashing or leaks. Thankfully, most issues are easy to fix. Here’s a quick guide to common problems and simple solutions for keeping your faucet running smoothly.
1. Excessive Splashing
A high pressure kitchen faucet can be super helpful, but they can also make a big mess if they splash too much. Imagine washing a plate and suddenly getting water splattered all over the counter – it’s not fun! The strong flow can hit dishes or the sink at odd angles, creating unwanted spray outside the sink.
One easy fix is to adjust the faucet’s angle to reduce the splash. Another option is to add an aerator. This handy little attachment softens the water flow, breaking it into smaller streams, which helps control splashes. If you still find yourself getting splashed, try lowering the faucet’s water pressure slightly by adjusting the valve under the sink. You’ll get a manageable flow without losing too much power.
2. Water Hammer or Banging Pipes
Ever hear a loud banging noise from the pipes after you turn off the faucet? That’s something called “water hammer.” It happens when the fast water flow stops suddenly, sending shockwaves through your pipes. While it’s mostly annoying, it can also wear out your plumbing over time if you leave it unaddressed.
An easy solution is to install a water hammer arrestor. This device absorbs the pressure from the sudden water stop and quiets those bangs. Another fix is to lower the water pressure slightly by adjusting the shut-off valves, which can help prevent water hammer without sacrificing the faucet’s power. A quieter kitchen and longer-lasting pipes – sounds like a win-win!
3. Inconsistent Water Flow
If your high pressure kitchen faucet sometimes spits out water unevenly or changes pressure on its own, you’re dealing with inconsistent water flow. It’s annoying, and it can make it hard to do simple tasks like rinsing dishes. This issue often happens when there’s a clog in the aerator or mineral buildup somewhere in the faucet’s components.
To tackle this, start by removing and cleaning the aerator. A simple soak in vinegar can help dissolve any mineral deposits or debris that may be blocking the water flow. If that doesn’t solve the problem, check the faucet’s cartridge. Sometimes mineral buildup here can also cause flow issues, and a quick clean or replacement might be all it needs.
4. Faucet Leaks
High-pressure faucets sometimes put extra stress on their internal parts, causing leaks over time. You might notice water trickling from the spout when it shouldn’t, or even around the base of the faucet. While it seems minor, these leaks can add up to a lot of wasted water and even lead to damage around your sink if not addressed.
To fix leaks, first check for any loose fittings around the faucet and tighten them up. If that doesn’t do the trick, you might need to replace the O-rings or faucet cartridge, as these parts wear out over time. Regularly checking your high pressure kitchen faucet for leaks and making small repairs can prevent bigger problems down the line and keep your faucet working smoothly.
5. High Water Usage
High-pressure faucets are great for quickly washing dishes or filling up pots, but they can also increase your water usage. This can lead to a higher water bill than expected, especially if you’re using a lot more water than you realize for everyday tasks.
One easy way to cut down on water use is by installing a flow restrictor. This handy device lets you enjoy the benefits of a high-pressure faucet without using as much water. You can also slightly adjust the shut-off valves under the sink to reduce the water flow, helping you control usage without losing too much power. This way, you get the best of both worlds – the convenience of high pressure and a lower water bill!
6. Dripping Faucet After Shut-Off
Sometimes, even after you turn off a high-pressure faucet, it keeps dripping a little. This can happen because the pressure inside is pushing tiny amounts of water through, even when you’re not using it. Besides being annoying, it can waste water and make your faucet wear out faster.
To stop a dripping faucet, try replacing any worn-out washers or the cartridge if it looks damaged. These small parts are often the culprits for drips and are easy to replace. Lowering the faucet’s pressure slightly can also prevent this issue by reducing the strain on its internal parts. No more drip, drip, drip!
7. Mineral Buildup and Clogged Nozzles
If you live in an area with hard water, you might notice white or chalky buildup on your faucet over time. This mineral buildup can clog your faucet’s nozzle or aerator, reducing water flow and affecting the faucet’s pressure. It’s a common problem with high-pressure faucets, especially in places with hard water.To keep your high pressure kitchen faucet running smoothly, regularly clean the aerator by soaking it in vinegar to dissolve any mineral deposits. If buildup is a recurring problem, think about installing a water softener. It can help reduce mineral deposits and keep your faucet working like new. A little maintenance can go a long way in extending the life of your high-pressure faucet!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are high-pressure kitchen faucets more prone to wear and tear than regular faucets?
A high pressure kitchen faucet can sometimes experience more wear due to the added force on internal parts, which can lead to issues like leaks or dripping. Regular maintenance, like checking for loose fittings and replacing worn-out washers or cartridges, can help prevent these issues.
How can I reduce the pressure on my faucet if it’s too strong?
You can adjust the shut-off valves under the sink to reduce the water pressure. This way, you’ll still have a functional faucet but with a more manageable flow, reducing splashing and potential wear on faucet parts.
Can I install a high-pressure kitchen faucet in any kitchen?
Yes, but it’s essential to ensure your plumbing system can handle the added pressure. If your pipes are older or prone to water hammer, you may need to install water hammer arrestors or consult a plumber to avoid noise and potential damage.
Need Reliable Faucet Repair in Eagan, MN? Call True Plumbing Solutions Today!
A high pressure kitchen faucet brings speed and power to everyday tasks, but they do need a bit of attention now and then. Whether it’s managing splashes, preventing leaks, or keeping the flow steady, a little maintenance can make all the difference. If you’re looking for Eagan plumbers who can help with high pressure faucet repair or installation, True Plumbing Solutions is here for you. Contact us today to get started.
