Skip to main content

Inspect and Clean Main Hose Check Valve — Clean or Replace Faucet and Showerhead Aerators

Beginner3 hours

Part of project

How to Increase Water Pressure in Your House · Step 3 of 3

Helpful?

In this video

If the low flow issue persists after cleaning the spray head, or if the flow was weak from the hose itself, the clog is likely in the main hose check valve. Lift the large spring off the faucet spout. Unscrew the hose nut counter-clockwise to detach the hose from the faucet body. Look inside the end of the hose for the yellow check valve and flow restrictor. Use a flat-blade screwdriver to carefully hook and pull the valve out. Flush the valve with water from both the front and back to clear any debris. If the valve is damaged or cannot be cleaned, it can be replaced.

Goal: Clean the second check valve located in the hose

  • The replacement part number for the hose check valve is 48224.

Used in this video

  • Flat-Blade Screwdriver (brand: Unspecified, Screwdriver_Type: Flathead, Length: Medium, Material: Steel)Prying out the check valve from the hose end.
96.7K views2045 minutes
Home Repair Tutor

671K subscribers

View Channel

FAQs

What specific tools, beyond a multi-screwdriver and pliers, might I need for this water pressure project?

You might also need an adjustable wrench for the PRV or stubborn aerators, and a bucket to catch any water during disassembly. Having a small brush or a de-scaling agent can be very helpful for thoroughly cleaning mineral deposits from aerators.

Are there any crucial safety precautions I should take before starting to work on my home's water pressure?

Always shut off the main water supply to your house before attempting to adjust or replace the PRV or clean aerators. This prevents accidental flooding or leaks. Also, wear gloves to protect your hands from grime and potential sharp edges.

How much should I expect to spend if I need to replace parts like a Pressure Reducing Valve or multiple aerators?

A new Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) can cost $50 to $200 for the part itself, depending on the model and features. Individual faucet or showerhead aerators are much more affordable, typically ranging from $5 to $15 each. Factor these potential costs if simple cleaning or adjustments don't resolve the issue.

I've checked the main water valve and cleaned my aerators, but my water pressure is still low. What should I troubleshoot next?

If the main valve is fully open and aerators are clean, the Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) is the next most likely culprit. Locate the PRV and try adjusting its screw clockwise to increase pressure. If adjustment doesn't help, or if the valve appears damaged, it likely needs replacement.

Transcript
Hide

or email into tech service and request a replacement spray head. The other area where flow can be restricted is underneath the spring. The spring will simply lift off, the hose nut will unthread counterclockwise, and pull up, and then the hose will pull right off, and on the inside, that is your check valve flow restrictor, here again with a regular blade screwdriver, and hook it and pull it out. You can flush it from the front side, and from the back side, or it can be replaced, and this is a part number 48-224, so to reinstall the check valve flow restrictor, the color

Auto-generated transcript. May contain errors.