How to Clean Faucet Aerator: A Step-by-Step Guide

Have you noticed a weaker water flow from your faucet lately, or water spraying in unpredictable directions? You might think it’s a plumbing problem, but often the culprit is something much simpler: a clogged faucet aerator. This small but mighty device screws onto the end of your faucet and plays a crucial role in regulating water flow, conserving water, and preventing splashing. When it gets clogged with mineral deposits and sediment, its efficiency diminishes, leading to those frustrating issues.

Cleaning your faucet aerator is a quick, easy, and inexpensive DIY task that can significantly improve your water pressure and save you money on your water bill. Ignoring a clogged aerator can lead to wasted water, increased energy costs (if you have a hot water system), and even put unnecessary strain on your plumbing system. Taking a few minutes to clean it can make a big difference in the long run.

Want to know more about how to clean a faucet aerator?

What causes buildup in faucet aerators?

The primary cause of buildup in faucet aerators is mineral deposits from the water supply, primarily calcium and magnesium. Over time, these minerals precipitate out of the water and accumulate within the aerator’s mesh screen and housing, restricting water flow and altering the spray pattern.

The mineral content of your water, often referred to as “hard water,” is the biggest determining factor in how quickly buildup occurs. Regions with hard water experience more rapid accumulation. Other factors contributing to buildup include the presence of sediment like sand or rust particles, which can also get trapped in the aerator. These particles may originate from aging pipes within the home or from the municipal water supply. Even small amounts of these materials can gradually reduce water flow and affect water pressure. Water temperature can also play a role. Hot water tends to dissolve minerals more readily than cold water, potentially leading to increased mineral precipitation and subsequent buildup within the aerator, especially when the water cools down within the faucet. The type of pipes in your home (e.g., galvanized steel, copper) can also subtly influence the composition of the buildup, with older galvanized pipes being more prone to contributing rust particles.

How do I reassemble the aerator after cleaning?

Reassembling your faucet aerator is generally straightforward. Begin by carefully placing the individual components back into the aerator housing in the exact order they were removed. Typically, this involves inserting any flow restrictors, washers, screens, and the aerator itself. Once everything is correctly positioned, screw the aerator housing back onto the faucet spout, tightening it securely but not overtightening to avoid damage.

The specific order of the components can vary slightly depending on the faucet model, so it’s extremely helpful to take a picture or make a note of the arrangement *before* disassembly. This visual reference will significantly simplify the reassembly process. Ensure each part is clean and free of debris before reinserting it, as any remaining sediment can quickly clog the aerator again and undo your cleaning efforts.

When screwing the aerator housing back onto the faucet, turn it clockwise until it’s snug. Use an aerator wrench or pliers (protected with a cloth to prevent scratches) for a firm grip, but avoid excessive force. Overtightening can strip the threads or damage the aerator components, leading to leaks or a permanently stuck aerator. After reassembly, turn on the faucet and check for leaks around the aerator. If you notice any leaks, gently tighten the aerator housing a bit more. If the leaking persists, double-check that all components are in the correct order and properly seated.

And that’s all there is to it! Hopefully, your faucet is now flowing freely and you’re enjoying a better water pressure. Thanks for following along, and feel free to stop by again for more helpful tips and tricks to keep your home running smoothly!