Things You'll Need:
- rags
- adjustable wrench
- plumbers tape (white stretchy plasticized tape)
- flashlight
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Step 1
You have to investigate the problem. The most common issues are the kitchen faucet and the showerhead. First check your water flow.
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Step 2
Check your main water lines and make sure they are turned all the way open. Older houses have water lines outside the house on the side with metal levers alongside. The lever should be turned all the way parallel to the water line for maximum flow.
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Step 3
You can also increase pressure by opening the water valve at the water meter. You will need a special wrench to do this. Be advised doing this will also increase your water bill significantly!
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Step 4
Now check under the sink to see if there is a water flow valve adjustment. You simply have to turn this knob open (usually counterclockwise).
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Step 5
If these methods fail, you probably have debris in your appliance. Most kitchen faucets have an aerator on the tip where the water comes out. This can get clogged or the seal broken. These can be replaced. You will need a rag to wrap around this and an adjustable wrench. Turn counterclockwise with the wrench to remove. Take the aerator to the hardware store and ask the salesman to help you find a replacement. To replace, simply screw back on the faucet clockwise. Make sure the threads are completely clean so you don't get debris into the threads and cause the faucet to leak at the top.
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Step 6
If your showerhead is clogged, simply take a rag to wrap around the stem and use an adjustable wrench to remove the showerhead at the stem. Usually there is a filter and you will find some sort of sand or black particles in the filter that is causing the showerhead not to flow. Simply wash this out and replace. Alternatively, you can buy a better showerhead for $10 at a local Big Lots, Walmart, or hardware store and replace the old one. Take the old one with you just in case you aren't sure the new one will match the piping. Rub the shower stem threads clean with a clean cloth. Place a small amount of plumbing tape around the threads. Screw the new showerhead in place. You will need to wrap the stem with a rag and use the adjustable wrench again to tighten completely (otherwise the shower will spew water at the top when you turn it on). Turn the shower on to test if the head is tight. If not, make sure you threaded the showerhead on correctly - take it off and start over. If you cannot get the showerhead straight onto the stem, do not tighten it - you will strip the threads!!! Use all your strength to tighten it. Overtightening is difficult in this case, but be careful not to strip the threads.
