My Faucet is Spitting Water! What Do I Do?

A strong stream of water coming out of a stainless steel faucet on a white bathroom sink.

What’s Making My Faucet Spit?

You go to turn on the bathroom faucet only to jump back in surprise when the water begins spitting and spurting out rather than its usual steady stream. What's causing this mess? Well, it could be a few different things:

1. Air in the Water Lines

During colder months or during periods of higher water usage, it's possible for your water to become more aerated by pockets or bubbles of air. When this air enters your water lines, it can cause the faucet to "spit" and make a gurgling sound as it runs. Allow the water to keep running in an effort to allow the air to escape. If this does not solve your spitting issue, give our team a call!

2. Damaged Valve Cartridge

If the valve cartridge in your faucet is damaged, it could be causing water pressure issues. This can result in a spitting and spurting sound as the faucet runs. To fix this issue, replace the valve cartridge with a new one of the same size and make. To ensure you're purchasing the correct cartridge, we recommend bringing the old one to the hardware store with you.

3. Clogged Aerator

Your faucet's aerator can become clogged with sediment and other debris, which can cause the water to spurt out instead of running normally. Fix this issue by unscrewing the aerator from the faucet and cleaning it out with a brush or vinegar solution. Removing and replacing an aerator can be tricky, so do your best to make note of each step along the way so you can properly reinstall the piece after cleaning.

If your faucet continues to spit water after addressing the above issues, we recommend calling the Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Southeast WI team for help! From faucets to showerheads, we're here to take care of your plumbing when you need us most.

Contact us today by calling us or requesting an estimate for your repair online.