Faucet Aerator
If you have noticed a small screen attached at the tip of the faucet, it’s called the faucet aerator. Most modern faucets have aerators, but have you ever wondered what it is for? Here’s what you should know about faucet aerators and why it is a must-have in every home. Regarding faucets, call a professional plumber to fix any issues and keep them functioning well.
What is a faucet aerator?
A faucet aerator is a small, round device that can be screwed on the faucet tip for a splash-free and consistent water flow. It creates a mix of air and water, making the water stream smoother and less messy.
Faucet aerators already existed as early as the late 1940s to lessen the water mess and make water taste better. Unlike today, faucet aerators were only add-ons and not a staple part of faucets. Meanwhile, modern faucets often have built-in faucet aerators, but there are also separate ones you can purchase and install for faucets with lacking or broken aerators.
The next question is, what are faucet aerators for. One of its purposes is to filter debris and sediments, but its more important purpose is to improve water flow and make it feel softer. Other benefits of having an aerator in your faucet are the following:
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- Lessen water mess and splashes
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- Create a wider water stream
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- Save water (much better if there is a flow-restrictor aerator installed)
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- Activates soap faster because of small water bubbles, hence saving both water and soap
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- Makes water taste better
However, an aerator may not be necessary for outdoor faucets and in some bathrooms or laundry faucets. It could be counterproductive and does not require a lighter water flow.
How to install and clean a faucet aerator
Installing a faucet aerator is not as complicated as you think. It only requires two simple tools: tongue-and-groove pliers and a small towel to serve as a protective item when using the pliers on the aerator. Here are the steps for installing a faucet aerator:
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- Using the towel, clean the inside thread of your faucet.
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- Check if the aerator is fully assembled. It should have the washer in place to avoid leakage. Then, position the aerator at the faucet’s tip until it secures. Use the pliers to tighten the aerator.
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- Turn the faucet on to test the aerator.
How often you clean your aerator depends on the debris in your water and pipes. If the water flow suddenly becomes slower, you might have to check if you need to clean the aerator. Meanwhile, here are tips for cleaning and maintaining a faucet aerator:
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- Close the sink stopper and remove the faucet aerator. Take the aerator apart if applicable.
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- Soak it in distilled white vinegar for about an hour. After that, rinse with clean water.
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- Put back the aerator and turn on the faucet to check whether there’s an improvement.
For your water supply fixture repair and replacement needs, contact a professional plumbing service in Spring Hill, TN, today!
