A well-functioning 2-handle widespread WaterSense bathroom faucet is an essential part of any bathroom. While these faucets are designed to conserve water and meet EPA WaterSense standards, there may be times when you notice a decrease in water flow. Low water flow can be caused by factors such as clogged aerators, mineral buildup, or issues within the plumbing. Fortunately, this is usually easy to fix with the right steps.
If you're wondering how to increase water flow in your 2-handle bathroom faucet, this guide is here to help. Below, we’ll walk you through potential causes and solutions that ensure a steady and consistent water flow.
Understanding Water Conservation Versus Low Flow Issues
Before jumping into fixes, it’s important to distinguish between low water flow due to design versus an actual issue. WaterSense-labeled faucets, such as your 2-handle widespread faucet, are engineered to limit water flow to 1.5 gallons per minute (GPM) or less, saving water without sacrificing performance. If your faucet's flow is noticeably weaker than that, it could indicate a blockage or another problem.
Now, let's explore actionable steps to resolve any issues.
Causes and Fixes for Low Water Flow in a Widespread 2-Handle Bathroom Faucet
1. Check the Aerator for Clogs
The aerator is a small screen located at the tip of your faucet spout. Over time, it can become blocked by sediment, rust, or mineral deposits, leading to reduced water flow.
Steps to clean the aerator:
● Carefully unscrew the aerator from the faucet tip using your hand or a wrench (wrap the jaws of the wrench with tape to avoid scratching the finish).
● Rinse the aerator parts under warm water to remove any loose debris.
● For stubborn mineral buildup, soak the aerator parts in a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water for 30 minutes.
● Use a toothbrush or a small brush to gently scrub the screen.
● Reassemble the aerator and screw it back onto the faucet. Turn the water on to test.
Pro tip: If the aerator is damaged or too clogged to clean, consider replacing it with a new one.
2. Inspect the Water Supply Valves
The water supply valves, located under the sink, control the amount of water flowing to your faucet. Sometimes, these valves may not be fully open, restricting the flow.
Steps to check and adjust supply valves:
● Look under your sink for two water supply valves (one for hot water and one for cold).
● Ensure both valves are fully open by turning them counterclockwise until they stop.
● Turn on the faucet and check the flow.
If the valves were already fully open, proceed to the next step.
3. Flush the Faucet for Debris
Debris can accumulate in your faucet's water lines, particularly after plumbing work such as repairs or replacements. Flushing the lines can help remove the blockage.
Steps to flush the faucet:
● Turn off both water supply valves under the sink.
● Disconnect the hoses that connect the faucet to the valves using an adjustable wrench. Have a bucket or towel ready to catch any water.
● Hold the hoses over the sink or a bucket and briefly turn the water supply valves back on to flush out debris.
● Reconnect the hoses and test the faucet.
4. Check for Hard Water Buildup
Hard water leaves behind mineral deposits that can clog your faucet's internal components over time, particularly the cartridge inside each handle.
Steps to clean the cartridge:
● Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
● Remove the handle by unscrewing it or using an Allen wrench (check your model's manual for specific instructions).
● Remove the cartridge inside the handle assembly.
● Soak the cartridge in a vinegar-water solution for 30 minutes to dissolve mineral deposits.
● Rinse thoroughly and reinstall.
If cleaning the cartridge doesn’t improve the flow, you may need to replace it with a new one designed for your faucet model.
5. Inspect the Faucet for Internal Leaks
Internal leaks within the faucet body or connections can reduce pressure and flow. The 2-handle widespread WaterSense faucet design includes multiple components that might require checking.
Steps to inspect for leaks:
● Look for visible signs of leakage around the handles or base of the faucet.
● Tighten any loose connections between components with a wrench.
● Replace worn-out washers or seals if necessary.
Consult your faucet’s instruction manual for specific repair guidance.
6. Evaluate Your Home’s Water Pressure
If the above fixes don’t resolve the issue, the problem could be your home’s overall water pressure. WaterSense faucets may accentuate low-pressure issues, as they are optimized for specific pressure levels.
Steps to test water pressure:
● Attach a pressure gauge to an outdoor spigot or any accessible faucet.
● Turn the water on fully and check the pressure reading. Residential water pressure should typically range between 40-60 PSI.
If the pressure is too low, contact a professional plumber to address wider plumbing issues or improve the water pressure.
7. Contact the Manufacturer for Support
If you’ve tried all the above steps and your 2-handle widespread bathroom faucet still has poor water flow, consider reaching out to the manufacturer for advice. They may provide additional troubleshooting steps or warranty assistance if repairs are needed.
Pro-tip: Keep your faucet manual and any warranty details handy when contacting the manufacturer.
Maintenance Tips for Consistent Water Flow
To prevent future water flow issues, consider the following maintenance tips:
● Clean the aerator regularly: Make it a habit to clean the aerator every few months, especially in areas with hard water.
● Use a water softener: If your home has hard water, installing a water softener system can reduce mineral buildup.
● Check supply valves periodically: Ensure the valves remain fully open and free of leaks.
● Perform annual faucet checks: Inspect and clean internal components, such as cartridges, annually to keep everything running smoothly.
Enjoy Smooth, Steady Flow from Your Faucet
A 2-handle widespread WaterSense bathroom faucet offers both style and efficiency, but low water flow can occasionally disrupt its performance. Fortunately, with a bit of troubleshooting and maintenance, you can restore optimal water flow and continue enjoying your faucet for years to come.
Whether it’s cleaning the aerator, flushing the lines, or addressing hard water buildup, these steps are manageable even for DIY beginners. If you’re dealing with a stubborn issue that resists fixing, don’t hesitate to consult a professional plumber or the faucet manufacturer for assistance.
For more insights on bathroom plumbing and water efficiency, stay tuned to our blog! Have any other faucet-related questions? Drop them in the comments below—we’re here to help.
2-Handle Widespread WaterSense Bathroom Faucet
2-Handle Bathroom Faucet
Widespread Bathroom Faucet
