If your faucet’s water flow has slowed to a trickle or sprays erratically, the aerator is almost certainly clogged with mineral deposits. Replacing it takes two minutes and costs under $5.
STEP 1: Unscrew the Old Aerator
The aerator is the small screened tip at the end of the faucet spout. Unscrew it by hand — turn counterclockwise when looking up at it. If it is stuck, wrap the aerator in a cloth or rubber band and use pliers for grip. The cloth prevents scratching the finish.
STEP 2: Check the Aerator for Buildup
From here, the process moves forward. disassemble the aerator and inspect the screen and internal components. If they are coated with white or green mineral deposits, soak the parts in white vinegar for 30 minutes — this dissolves the buildup. If the screen is torn or the housing is corroded, replace the entire aerator.
STEP 3: Match the Replacement Size
Here is where the real progress begins. aerators come in different thread sizes — the most common are 15/16-inch (standard male thread) and 55/64-inch (standard female thread). Take the old aerator to the hardware store to match the size exactly, or buy a universal aerator kit that includes adapters for both sizes.
STEP 4: Install the New Aerator
With the main work complete, thread the new aerator clockwise by hand. Tighten until snug — do not use pliers unless absolutely necessary, and always wrap the aerator first to protect the finish. No Teflon tape is needed.
STEP 5: Test the Water Flow
The finishing touch makes all the difference. turn on the faucet and check for smooth, even flow. If water sprays sideways, the aerator may be cross-threaded — unscrew it and try again, making sure the threads catch cleanly before tightening.
PRO TIPS
Q: How do I fix low water pressure in one faucet?
A: A low-flow aerator rated at 1.0-1.5 GPM cuts water usage by 30-50% compared to a standard 2.2 GPM aerator with no noticeable difference in how the faucet feels during handwashing. It is one of the easiest ways to lower your water bill.
Q: How often should faucet aerators be cleaned?
A: If you cannot unscrew a stuck aerator, wrap it in a vinegar-soaked rag and let it sit for an hour. The vinegar dissolves the mineral deposits that are bonding the threads. After soaking, it should unscrew easily.
Q: What is a low-flow aerator and does it save water?
A: Clean your aerators every 6 months by unscrewing them and soaking in vinegar overnight. This one-minute maintenance task keeps water flowing at full pressure and extends the aerator’s life indefinitely.
SUPPLIES NEEDED
Replacement faucet aerator
Pliers and cloth or rubber wrench
White vinegar (for cleaning or loosening)
Small bowl for soaking parts
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