A faucet usually sprays or sputters because something is disturbing the flow at the tip, such as debris in the aerator, or because air got into the water lines. Worn parts inside the faucet can also make the stream uneven.
A sputtering faucet is more annoying than dangerous in most cases. Still, knowing the likely causes can help you tell a quick fix from a problem that needs a closer look.
Debris in the Aerator
Most faucets have a small screen at the tip called an aerator. It mixes air into the water and shapes the stream. Over time, sand, rust flakes or mineral bits can collect in that screen.
When part of the screen is blocked, water can shoot out sideways or spray in a messy pattern. This is common after plumbing work or after city water main work, when debris may be stirred up in the pipes. A damaged or loose aerator can also cause spraying. Some aerators are tucked inside the spout and need a special key to reach, so the right step depends on the faucet.
Air in the Water Lines
If the water was shut off recently, air can get trapped in the pipes. When the water comes back on, faucets may sputter, spit and bang for a short time until the air is pushed out.
In many cases this clears up after running the faucets for a little while. If the sputtering keeps coming back without a recent shutoff, something else may be going on, and it is worth mentioning to a plumber. Opening faucets slowly at first can help, and it is a good idea to let both hot and cold sides run.
Other Possible Causes
Spraying or uneven flow can also be linked to:
- worn or damaged parts inside the faucet body
- a kitchen sprayer or pull-down head with buildup or a stuck part
- a partly closed shutoff valve under the sink
- changes in water pressure in the building
If only one faucet sputters, the cause is more likely in that faucet or its supply. If every fixture in the home does it, the cause may be in the building plumbing or the water supply. Those are clues, not a diagnosis.
What to Do and When to Call
Unscrewing an aerator by hand and rinsing it is a simple step many people take. Do not force it with tools if it is stuck, since that can damage the faucet. Avoid taking the faucet apart while the water is on.
If the faucet keeps sputtering, leaks, or the flow stays weak after the aerator is clean, it may be time for a closer look. In a Bronx apartment, let the super know, especially if neighbors have the same issue after building water work.
Still dealing with a faucet that sprays all over the sink? Our faucet repair service can find what is disturbing the flow. Call (929) 209-6183 to book a visit.
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