Faucet Aerator

Kitchen · Easy

The small screen at the tip of a kitchen faucet that shapes the water stream. Clogs from mineral buildup and needs periodic cleaning or swapping.

Tools you may need

• Adjustable wrench or strap wrench
• White vinegar
• Old toothbrush
• Plumber's tape (optional)

Steps

1. 1Unscrew the aerator counter-clockwise from the faucet tip; use a strap wrench if it's stuck.
2. 2Soak it in white vinegar for 30 minutes, then scrub the screen with a toothbrush.
3. 3Rinse, reinsert any washers, and screw it back on hand-tight.
4. 4Run water for 10 seconds to flush debris and check for leaks.

Maintenance

Descale with vinegar quarterly, more often with hard water. (Suggested interval: every 3 months.)