How to Fix a Pulsating Faucet Yourself? [Very Easy]

You’re at home, and you see your kitchen sink faucet acting strange, pulsating or sputtering. You try to fix it by adjusting the water pressure, but the problem keeps happening. You worry that something’s wrong with the faucet, so you start looking for answers online. Let’s move forward about how to fix a pulsating faucet.

What causes a pulsating faucet?

A pulsating faucet is a common plumbing problem that can be caused by a variety of factors.

The four most common causes of pulsating faucets are mineral buildup, clogged aerator, water pressure issues, and leaking faucet cartridge or washer. We will provide detailed explanations of each of these causes, along with symptoms and solutions.

How to Fix a Pulsating Faucet?

Cause No. 1: Mineral Buildup

Over time, minerals dissolved in water can accumulate on the internal components of a faucet, particularly the aerator and cartridge. This buildup can restrict the flow of water and cause it to pulsate or sputter. The severity of the buildup depends on the mineral content of the water supply and the frequency of faucet use.

Signs of mineral buildup:

Reduced water flow
Pulsating or sputtering water stream
Visible mineral deposits on the faucet

How to fix mineral buildup:

Clean the aerator: Soak the aerator in vinegar or CLR for several hours, then rinse it thoroughly and reattach it.
Replace the cartridge: If cleaning the aerator doesn’t resolve the issue, the cartridge may need to be replaced. This process involves removing the faucet handles and disassembling the faucet.
Consider a water softener: If mineral buildup is a recurring problem, installing a water softener can help prevent it.

Cause No. 2: Clogged Aerator

The aerator is a screen at the end of the faucet spout that helps to smooth out the water flow and reduce splashing. Over time, sediment and debris can accumulate in the aerator, causing it to clog and restrict water flow. This can lead to pulsating or sputtering water stream.

Signs of a clogged aerator:

Reduced water flow
Pulsating or sputtering water stream
Visible debris on the aerator screen

How to fix a clogged aerator:

Unscrew the aerator from the faucet spout.
Rinse the aerator under running water to remove debris.
If necessary, soak the aerator in vinegar or CLR for several hours to dissolve stubborn deposits.
Rinse the aerator thoroughly and reattach it.

Cause No. 3: Water Pressure Issues

Water pressure fluctuations can also cause a pulsating faucet. If the water pressure is too high, it can cause the water to surge through the pipes, creating a pulsating effect. Conversely, if the water pressure is too low, the water may not flow smoothly and can also cause pulsating or sputtering.

Signs of water pressure issues:

Pulsating or sputtering water stream
Inconsistent water pressure throughout the house
Slow water flow from other faucets

How to fix water pressure issues:

Check the water pressure regulator: The water pressure regulator is typically located near the main water shut-off valve. Adjust the regulator to a pressure between 40 and 60 psi.
Identify any leaks: Leaks in the plumbing system can lower water pressure. Check for leaks under sinks, around toilets, and in other areas where water pipes are present.
Contact a plumber: If you’re unsure how to adjust the water pressure regulator or if you suspect a leak, contact a qualified plumber.

Cause No. 4: Leaking Faucet Cartridge or Washer

The faucet cartridge or washer is responsible for controlling the flow of water through the faucet. If the cartridge or washer is worn or damaged, it can leak and cause pulsating or sputtering water flow.

Signs of a leaking faucet cartridge or washer:

Dripping faucet
Pulsating or sputtering water stream
Inconsistent water pressure

How to fix a leaking faucet cartridge or washer:

Identify the type of cartridge or washer needed: There are different types of faucet cartridges and washers, so it’s important to identify the correct one for your faucet.
Turn off the water supply to the faucet: Locate the shut-off valves under the sink and turn them off completely.
Disassemble the faucet: Remove the faucet handles and any other components that need to be taken off to access the cartridge or washer.
Replace the cartridge or washer: Carefully remove the old cartridge or washer and install the new one.
Reassemble the faucet and turn on the water supply: Check for leaks and adjust the water pressure if necessary.

If you’re not comfortable working on plumbing fixtures yourself, it’s always best to call a qualified plumber to diagnose and repair the problem.

Is a pulsating faucet a sign of a serious problem?

A pulsating faucet, also known as a sputtering faucet, is a plumbing issue that can cause water to flow in an uneven or jerky manner. While it may not always be a sign of a serious problem, it can indicate an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.

Severity of a Pulsating Faucet

The severity of a pulsating faucet depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, it may be a minor issue that can be easily resolved by cleaning the aerator or adjusting the water pressure. However, in other cases, it could point to a more significant problem, such as a leaking cartridge or a faulty water pressure regulator.

Signs of a Serious Pulsating Faucet

While not all pulsating faucets are indicative of serious problems, there are some signs that may warrant further investigation:

Consistent Pulsating: If the faucet consistently pulsates, regardless of the water pressure or faucet usage, it could indicate a more significant issue.
Visible Leaks: Visible water leaks around the base of the faucet or in the sink cabinet can indicate a damaged cartridge or washer, which requires prompt attention.
Loud Noises: If the pulsating is accompanied by loud noises, such as banging or rattling, it could be a sign of water hammer, which can damage pipes and other plumbing components.
Widespread Pulsating: If pulsating occurs in multiple faucets throughout the house, it suggests a problem with the overall water pressure system, rather than an isolated issue with the faucet itself.

Can the Solutions for Repairing Scratches on a Matte Black Faucet also be used to fix a Pulsating Faucet?

Matte black faucet scratches repair tactics, such as using specific touch-up pens, may not address a pulsating faucet issue, which typically involves water pressure adjustments or valve repairs unrelated to surface imperfections. It’s essential to discern between aesthetic fixes and functional mechanical corrections in faucets.

How can I prevent my faucet from pulsating in the future?

Preventing pulsating faucets involves maintaining your plumbing system and addressing potential issues promptly. Here are some effective strategies to keep your faucets working smoothly and avoid pulsating water flow:

Clean the Aerator: The faucet’s end screen, called the aerator, can get clogged with stuff over time. Soak it in vinegar or CLR for a few hours and then rinse it to keep the water flowing smoothly.
Use a Water Softener: If you have hard water, a water softener can reduce minerals and stop buildup, preventing pulsating water.
Annual Plumbing Inspection: Have a plumber check your plumbing every year. They can spot and fix issues like worn-out faucet parts before they cause pulsating.
Be Gentle: Open and close faucets gently. Using too much force can harm the faucet, leading to leaks and pulsating water.
Fix Leaks Quickly: Don’t ignore leaks. They can damage your sink, cabinets, and raise your water bill. Fixing them right away prevents further problems and pulsating water.
Check Water Pressure: Make sure your water pressure is between 40-60 psi. Too low or too high pressure can stress your faucets and lead to leaks and pulsating water. Ask a plumber to adjust it if needed.