How to Repair a Sputtering Faucet

A sputtering faucet is more than a minor inconvenience. It can be an indication of air in the plumbing lines, buildup in the faucet’s aerator, or even underlying issues in your water system. A sputtering faucet often releases bursts of water mixed with air, leading to erratic water flow and potentially bigger issues if not addressed. Fortunately, most cases can be solved with a few easy repairs. In this article, we’ll explore common causes of a sputtering faucet, ways to troubleshoot, and steps for effective repair.

Common Causes of a Sputtering Faucet

Understanding why your faucet is sputtering can help you determine the best repair approach. Here are some of the most common causes:

1. Air in the Water Line
   • This is one of the primary reasons for sputtering faucets, especially in areas with recently serviced plumbing lines. When air enters the system, it creates gaps in the water flow, leading to sputtering. This can happen if there’s a new installation, recent repairs, or even after seasonal changes.
2. Buildup in the Aerator
   • The aerator, a small mesh screen located at the faucet’s spout, is designed to filter out sediment and debris. Over time, minerals and other deposits can clog the aerator, reducing water flow and causing sputtering. Regular cleaning can help prevent this issue.
3. Faulty Valve Cartridges
   • Inside your faucet, valve cartridges control water flow. If these cartridges are damaged or worn out, they may not open or close smoothly, leading to sputtering as water is inconsistently released.
4. Sediment in the Pipes
   • Sediment, often found in areas with hard water, can accumulate in pipes and reduce water flow. This blockage may contribute to sputtering as water forces its way through restricted sections of the plumbing.
5. Issues with Water Pressure
   • Sometimes, water pressure fluctuations can also lead to sputtering faucets. High-pressure spikes or low-pressure issues can both affect the faucet’s operation.

Now that we know the potential causes, let’s dive into how to repair a sputtering faucet.

Step-by-Step Guide to Repairing a Sputtering Faucet

Step 1: Inspect the Aerator

The aerator is often the main culprit when dealing with sputtering faucets. Follow these steps to inspect and clean the aerator:

1. Remove the Aerator
   • Carefully unscrew the aerator from the faucet spout using your hands or an adjustable wrench. If it’s difficult to remove, try wrapping the spout with a cloth to prevent scratching, and use pliers.
2. Clean the Aerator
   • Rinse the aerator under running water, using a soft brush to remove debris. If there’s mineral buildup, soak the aerator in a small bowl of vinegar for 30-60 minutes to dissolve the deposits.
3. Reassemble the Aerator
   • Once clean, reassemble the aerator and screw it back onto the faucet. Turn on the water to check if the sputtering has stopped. If the problem persists, continue to the next steps.

Step 2: Check for Air in the Plumbing Lines

If the aerator is clean but the faucet continues to sputter, you may have air trapped in the water lines. Here’s how to resolve this:

1. Turn Off the Water
   • Shut off the main water supply. This can usually be found near your water meter or in the basement.
2. Open All Faucets
   • Open every faucet in the house, including outdoor spigots, starting with the one closest to the main water valve. Let the water drain completely from the lines. This should flush out any trapped air.
3. Turn the Water Back On
   • Turn the main water supply back on and gradually close each faucet, one by one, beginning with the farthest faucet from the main valve. This process should help release any remaining air pockets.

Step 3: Examine the Valve Cartridges

If the sputtering continues, you might have an issue with the faucet’s valve cartridges. Here’s how to address this:

1. Turn Off the Water Supply to the Faucet
   • Locate the shutoff valves under the sink and turn them off to cut off the water supply to the affected faucet.
2. Remove the Faucet Handle
   • Depending on the faucet model, you’ll need to remove the handle to access the valve cartridges. Use a screwdriver or hex wrench as needed.
3. Extract the Valve Cartridge
   • Using pliers, carefully pull out the valve cartridge. Examine it for wear or damage. If it’s old or corroded, it’s best to replace it with a new one.
4. Install the New Cartridge
   • Insert the new cartridge, reassemble the faucet, and turn the water supply back on. Test the faucet to see if the sputtering has been resolved.

Step 4: Address Sediment in the Pipes

In areas with hard water, mineral deposits can accumulate in the pipes, leading to restricted water flow and sputtering. To address sediment in the pipes, consider these steps:

1. Flush the Pipes
   • Turn off the water supply and open all faucets to drain the system completely. Once drained, turn the main water supply back on to flush the pipes. This helps remove any loose sediment.
2. Install a Water Filter
   • If sediment buildup is a recurring issue, consider installing a water filter on your main water line. This can prevent debris from reaching your faucet and causing blockages.

Step 5: Regulate Water Pressure

If your water pressure is too high, it can contribute to sputtering faucets and even cause damage to your plumbing system. Here’s how to address it:

1. Check the Water Pressure
   • Use a pressure gauge to measure your water pressure. Ideally, the pressure should be between 40 and 60 PSI. Anything above 80 PSI is considered too high.
2. Adjust the Pressure Regulator
   • If the pressure is too high, locate your pressure regulator (usually near the main shutoff valve) and adjust it to a lower setting. If you don’t have a regulator, it might be wise to install one to help maintain optimal pressure.

Additional Tips for Preventing Sputtering Faucets

1. Regular Maintenance
   • Clean aerators and showerheads every few months to prevent mineral buildup and clogs. This proactive approach can help keep your faucets working smoothly.
2. Address Hard Water
   • If you live in an area with hard water, consider using a water softener to reduce mineral deposits that can clog faucets over time.
3. Use Filters
   • Installing a whole-house water filter can prevent sediment and impurities from entering your plumbing, helping to maintain consistent water flow.

Conclusion

A sputtering faucet may seem like a minor annoyance, but it can be a sign of larger issues within your plumbing. By identifying the root cause—whether it’s a clogged aerator, air in the lines, sediment buildup, or high water pressure—you can fix the problem quickly and efficiently. With this step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to tackle sputtering faucets on your own, helping to extend the life of your plumbing fixtures and ensure a smooth, consistent water flow in your home.

Taking the time to perform regular maintenance, such as cleaning the aerator and monitoring water pressure, can help prevent sputtering faucets and keep your plumbing system in top shape.

FAQ

• Why is my faucet sputtering when I turn it on?
  • A sputtering faucet can be caused by air in the pipes, a clogged aerator, or issues with water pressure. It may also indicate sediment buildup or a partially clogged pipe.
• How do I fix a sputtering faucet?
  • First, try cleaning the aerator by unscrewing it from the faucet and rinsing it out. If that doesn’t work, flush the water lines by running both hot and cold water separately. In some cases, you may need to check for pipe blockages or contact a plumber.
• What tools will I need to repair a sputtering faucet?
  • You’ll likely need an adjustable wrench, pliers, a screwdriver, a bucket, and possibly a new aerator. For more complex issues, a plumbing snake or other specialized tools may be required.
• Can a sputtering faucet be a sign of a more serious problem?
  • Yes, if cleaning the aerator or flushing the water lines doesn’t help, there may be a larger issue, like pipe corrosion, a broken valve, or sediment buildup in the pipes. Persistent problems may require professional inspection.
• How do I clean a faucet aerator to stop sputtering?
  • Unscrew the aerator from the faucet, remove any sediment or debris, and rinse it under running water. You can also soak it in vinegar to remove mineral deposits, then screw it back on.
• What should I do if my faucet sputters after the water has been off for a while?
  • This could be due to air in the pipes, which can happen after water service interruptions. Run the faucet for a few minutes to flush out any trapped air. If the problem persists, it could indicate a blockage.
• Could low water pressure cause a faucet to sputter?
  • Yes, low water pressure can cause a sputtering effect. Check other faucets to see if they’re experiencing similar issues. If so, the problem may be with your home’s water pressure or the municipal water supply.
• Does a sputtering faucet affect hot and cold water differently?
  • A sputtering faucet can affect both hot and cold water. However, if only one side sputters, it may indicate a problem with the specific water line or valve for that side.
• Should I call a plumber if I can’t fix a sputtering faucet?
  • Yes, if cleaning the aerator and flushing the lines don’t solve the issue, it’s best to call a plumber. Persistent sputtering may signal more complex issues, such as blockages, corrosion, or a problem with the main water line.
• Is a sputtering faucet a sign of air in my water pipes?
  • Often, yes. Air can enter the water lines after a plumbing repair, pressure drop, or change in water supply, leading to sputtering until it’s flushed out.