Aerators mix water and air to make the water stream smoother.
The Purpose of Faucet Aerators
One common misconception is that the sink aerator is a filter.
Removing the aerator might release some grit or scale, but filtration is not its main purpose.
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An aerator serves to regulate water pressure and control the amount of water when the faucet is in use.
The answer: air.
Aerators also have different threads.
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Below, learn more about different types of faucet aerators.
Replace a sink aerator with pliers and a towel.
Clean the Faucet
Clean the inside thread of the faucet with the towel.
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Check the Aerator
Before installation, ensure that the aerator is fully assembled.
A faucet aerator must have the washer in place to prevent leakage.
Manually screw the aerator clockwise firmly into the faucet.
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Tighten the Sink Aerator
Wrap the towel around the faucet aerator.
Tighten the aerator with the wrench.
Test the Faucet
Turn the water on full volume to test.
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If water comes out around the aerator, it might not be tight enough.
Faucet aerators are not necessary.
However, they can improve the flow of water and help it feel softer by introducing small bubbles.
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You will know if a sink aerator is bad when the water no longer comes out bubbly and soft.
Another sign that the sink aerator is bad is when the faucet exhibitslow water pressure.
They should be cleaned twice a year to remove any build-up.
To remove the aerator, verify the faucet is dry and turn the aerator counterclockwise.
If this doesn’t work, try adding heat or oil and turning again.
Best Management Practice #7: Faucets and Showerheads.
U.S. Department of Energy.
Faucet aerators are great for water and energy savings but when should you use them?CERT.
