How To Clean a Clogged Faucet Aerator

A faucet aerator may be small, but it plays a central role in your bathroom and kitchen sinks. These small components help introduce air into the water stream, reducing splashing and water consumption. But over time, they can become clogged with minerals, sediment, and rust, leading to restricted water flow.

In the video above, This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey shows you how to diagnose and solve a clogged aerator problem. Our guide also offers maintenance tips to keep our faucets running properly.

What Are Faucet Aerators?

Faucet aerators are hollow metal cylinders that screw onto the tip of the faucet spout. They’re designed to create a clearer, more controlled stream of water. With the introduction of water conservation laws, aerators have also become a convenient way to incorporate flow restrictors. 

They contain several components that regulate water flow and minimize splashing. The metal or plastic screen breaks the water into smaller streams, while the rubber washer creates a tight seal to prevent leaks. Some models feature a retaining disc or flow restrictor to conserve water while maintaining adequate pressure.

Faucet aerators offer multiple benefits for homeowners, including reduced water consumption, decreased splashing, and improved perceived water pressure. By adding air to the water stream, aerators maintain pressure while using less water, making them an efficient tool for conserving resources without compromising performance. This can lead to noticeable savings on water bills over time.

Common Causes of Clogged Aerators

Various factors can contribute to aerator clogs, including:

• Debris from plumbing work, such as metal shavings or particles, become lodged in the aerator.
• Mineral buildup from hard water gradually accumulates on the aerator screen.
• Rust particles from older pipes break off and collect in the aerator.
• Sediment accumulation from water supplies obstructs the small openings in the aerator.

Signs of a Clogged Faucet Aerator

Here are some common signs that your faucet aerator is clogged:

• Reduced water flow or pressure: A clogged or dirty aerator reduces the flow from your faucet, leading to weaker water pressure. This can make tasks like washing dishes or filling a sink take longer.
• Strange noises coming from the faucet: A clogged aerator can cause hissing or whistling noises when you turn the faucet on. Water struggles to pass through the restricted openings, leading to these unusual sounds.
• Uneven or splashing water stream: The water stream may come out unevenly or splash more than normal, making the faucet harder to use without causing splashing.
• Visible debris or discoloration in the water: Debris, like rust or sediment stuck in the aerator, can lead to small particles or discoloration. This often means the aerator needs cleaning or replacement.

How To Clean a Faucet Aerator

Cleaning a clogged faucet aerator is a simple DIY task that improves water flow. Follow these steps to clean your aerator.

Tools and Materials Needed

You’ll need the following supplies for your aerator project:

• Cup or bowl
• Old toothbrush
• Rubber jar lid opener
• Small metal pick or screwdriver
• Towel
• Toothpick
• Tongue and groove pliers
• White vinegar

Step-by-Step Cleaning Process

1. Prepare the sink by clearing any dishes.
2. Lay a towel over the drain to prevent small parts from falling in.
3. Remove the aerator by unscrewing it counterclockwise. If it’s stubborn, use a rubber jar lid opener or pliers with care to avoid damage.
4. Use a small metal pick or screwdriver to scrape out visible sediment from the aerator.
5. Take apart the aerator, carefully removing the rubber washer, restrictor or retaining discs, and screen. We recommend placing the parts in order and taking a picture for reference.
6. Soak the aerator parts in white vinegar for several hours or overnight to dissolve mineral deposits.
7. After soaking, scrub the parts with an old toothbrush and clear any clogged holes with a toothpick.
8. Reassemble the aerator using your reference photo as a guide.
9. Reinstall the aerator on the faucet, tightening it by hand. Use the jar lid opener or pliers to get a snug fit if necessary.
10. Test the water flow to confirm proper function and check for any leaks around the aerator.

When To Replace Your Faucet Aerator

While cleaning can often restore the aerator’s function, sometimes replacement is necessary. We recommend replacing your aerator in the following situations:

• Cleaning doesn’t improve water flow: If cleaning the aerator does not restore normal water flow or pressure, it may be too worn or damaged to function properly.
• Decreased water pressure: Persistent low water pressure that cleaning does not resolve might suggest that the aerator needs to be replaced.
• Frequent clogging: If the aerator frequently clogs despite regular cleaning, you may need to replace it for consistent water flow.
• Incompatible with new fixtures: An older aerator might not fit properly with updated faucet or plumbing fixtures, requiring a replacement.
• The aerator is visibly corroded or calcified: Significant corrosion or calcification on the aerator indicates that buildup is compromising its performance.
• The rubber washer is cracked or worn: A cracked or worn rubber washer can cause leaks and prevent proper sealing and is inexpensive to replace.
• The screen is torn or damaged: A torn or damaged screen can lead to an uneven water stream and reduced efficiency.

Maintaining Your Faucet Aerators

To maintain your faucet’s performance and reduce the frequency of clogs, take these preventive measures:

• Clean your aerators regularly: Regular cleaning of your aerators every six months helps prevent the buildup of mineral deposits and debris that can cause clogs. 
• Flush your plumbing system: After completing any plumbing repairs or renovations, flushing the plumbing system helps remove any debris, sediment, or metal shavings that may have entered the pipes. 
• Install a whole-house water filter: A whole-house water filter can effectively reduce the amount of sediment and debris in your water supply. 
• Use a water softener: If you have hard water, installing a water softener helps reduce the concentration of dissolved minerals that can cause mineral buildup in your aerators. 

Beyond regular cleaning and preventive measures, there are additional steps you can take to ensure the longevity and functionality of your aerators:

• Avoid using harsh chemicals for cleaning, which can damage the aerator components.
• Inspect and clean faucet screens and spouts, as they can also collect debris.
• Replace washers and O-rings periodically to prevent leaks.

Tips for Hard Water Areas

Aerators can clog more quickly in areas with hard water with a high concentration of dissolved minerals. Regularly cleaning the aerator with a vinegar solution helps dissolve mineral deposits before they cause blockages. Using specialty aerators designed for hard water can also help reduce mineral buildup and extend the aerator’s lifespan.