Definitely been there with the aerators—it's wild how much gunk can hide out in those things. I remember after our street had a water main break, every faucet in the house started sputtering and pressure dropped. Popped off the kitchen aerator and, no joke, it was packed with tiny rocks and black grit. Had to soak it in vinegar just to get it clean.
If you're getting weird smells or tastes, that's a bit more concerning. Sometimes it's just the hot side if the water heater's been sitting, but if it's all taps... yeah, could be old galvanized pipes or even something upstream. Just flushing usually helps, but if not, you might want to check under the sinks for any old flex hoses too—those can get pretty nasty inside over time.
It's a pain, but systematically checking each fixture really does help narrow it down. At least aerators are cheap and easy to replace if they’re beyond saving. Hang in there—it’s always something with old plumbing, but you’ll get it sorted.
At least aerators are cheap and easy to replace if they’re beyond saving.
That’s the truth—sometimes it’s just not worth fighting with a clogged one. I’ve seen folks spend more time scrubbing than it’d take to swap in a new one. And yeah, those old flex hoses under the sink can be sneaky culprits for weird smells or pressure drops. You’re on the right track checking each fixture. Old plumbing always keeps you guessing, but you’ll get there.
those old flex hoses under the sink can be sneaky culprits for weird smells or pressure drops
Yeah, flex hoses are notorious for that. If you’re swapping them out, just make sure to shut off the water supply first—learned that the hard way once. Also, double-check for any kinks or corrosion while you’re down there. Sometimes it’s the little things that trip you up.
Sometimes it’s the little things that trip you up.
Funny how that’s always true under the sink. Did you notice any gunk or buildup inside the old hoses when you swapped them? I’ve seen some pretty nasty stuff clogging up the mesh at the ends, especially if the water’s hard. Also, did you check if the shutoff valves themselves are fully open? Sometimes they get stuck halfway and mess with pressure, but it’s easy to overlook.
Hard water can really sneak up on you, especially in older homes. I’ve definitely pulled out hoses before and been surprised by just how much “gunk” collects at the mesh. Sometimes it’s almost like a sandy paste, other times more like a slimy build-up. It’s wild how much that can mess with pressure.
Did you notice any gunk or buildup inside the old hoses when you swapped them?
I’d also echo your point about shutoff valves—those things are notorious for not opening all the way, especially if they haven’t been touched in years. I once thought I had a major plumbing issue, only to realize the valve was barely cracked open after a previous repair. Felt a bit silly, but it happens.
One thing I’d add: sometimes the aerator at the faucet tip gets clogged too. Even after swapping hoses and checking valves, if the pressure’s still off, unscrewing that little piece and rinsing it can make a surprising difference. It’s always the smallest thing that causes the biggest headaches under there...
