AboutSharon McCarthy Expertise I can help with most questions about residential plumbing problems including septic systems, and some questions about irrigation. I have no experience with commercial installations or codes.
Experience I have been a sole-proprietor service plumber in two small towns north of Phoenix Arizona for 26 years.
Publications I had a monthly column in the United Steelworkers of America, local 1033, newsletter 1978 to 1982. I wrote an article for "The Theosophist" in 1977. I've written dozens of letters to the editor in many newspapers.
Education/Credentials High school and three years of college. My step-father, having worked 40 years in the plumbing trade in Chicago, taught me for two years. The rest has been hands-on experience.
Past/Present Clients Many hundreds of good people in Cave Creek and Carefree Arizona
Question HI, I HAVE A SINK IN MY BATHROOM, YESTERDAY I TURNED THE WATER ON AND HEARD A SMALL BANG, THEN THE HOT AND COLD WATER WENT TO A TRICKLE, I FIGURED THE FAUCET BEING OLD NEEDED TO BE REPLACED, I REPLACED THE FAUCET, SUPPLY LINES AND DRAIN PIPE, CLEANED THE TRAP OUT, TURNED THE WATER ON AND MY WATER FLOW WAS BACK TO NORMAL, 15 MINUTES LATER I HEARD THE SAME BANG AND THE WATER IS BACK TO A TRICKLE, I APPRECIATE YOUR HELP ON THIS IF YOU CAN. FRANK
Answer Dear Frank,
You must have been really frustrated after all that work! When you replaced the supply lines, did you notice any particles in the lines you removed?
I have a hunch if you unscrew the aerator from the spout you'll find a lot of debris in there. This can have a number of causes. The cause will depend on what material you find that's plugging up the aerator. Take it off and see what you find. Then write back and describe it to me. Maybe I can point you in the right direction. Sharon
PS. When you remove an aerator, which is the little part on the end of the spout with a screen in it, use an adjustable pliers, like a Channelocks, place the jaws at the bottom of the aerator [this way you won't squeeze the threads] and turn to the LEFT. With a new faucet, the aerator should turn easily.
