How to Maintain Your Kitchen Faucet Aerator
Is the water flow coming from your kitchen faucet losing pressure? Has optimal water flow been reduced to a weak stream? The problem might not be your faucet at all, but instead, just a portion of your faucet that’s not much bigger than the common dime. It’s called a faucet aerator and it’s the one thing that not only filters your tap water, but it’s what can provide that perfect flow of water you need and want daily.
According to the pros at Aerator.com, a licensed faucet aerator company, if your aerator isn’t working right, it could require replacement. In fact, replacing your aerator is both an affordable and simple maintenance task that will greatly improve the efficiency, performance, and longevity of your kitchen faucet. Only then can you enjoy ideal water flow.
But what if your aerator doesn’t require replacement? What is it simply needs cleaning? Is this something you can do on your own? A new report from Tool Report indicates that it is not only possible to clean your own faucet aerator, but you should do so as often as every few months. Here’s what you need to know.
Defining a Faucet Aerator
An aerator is located at the very end of your faucet. It might not be the biggest component in your kitchen, but some professionals refer to it as the “unsung hero” of the most utilized room in your home. That’s because it’s engineered to mix air with your water stream. This creates a smooth, controlled flow. It makes washing dishes and filling pots of all sizes easier while minimizing water consumption via its ability to elevate water pressure.
Having a good idea of what a faucet aerator does is said to be the first step in maintaining it properly.
Why You Should Clean Your Aerator
Given enough time, sediment, mineral deposits, and dangerous bacteria will collect inside your faucet aerator. This can lead to several important issues:
–Reduction of water flow: mineral deposits get in the way of water flow making it harder to wash your dishes and fill containers and pots.
Faucet drips: clogged aerators will result in a faucet that drips when it’s fully turned off, wasting many gallons of water and increasing your bill.
Water discoloration: mineral deposits and sediment can discolor your water causing it to appear rusty or cloudy or both.
Bad odors: the bacteria that accumulates inside your aerator will result in a foul odor.
But the good news is that regular cleaning of your aerator will help with preventing these issues and ensuring your kitchen faucet runs efficiently.
Tools and Supplies for Cleaning your Kitchen Aerator
The cleaning of your aerator only requires just a few everyday items. These include a flathead screwdriver, a pair of pliers, an old toothbrush, some white vinegar, and baking soda. You’ll also need some paper towels for final cleaning and drying both the aerator and faucet.
Preparation for Cleaning your Kitchen Aerator
Prior to beginning the cleaning process, you need to turn off your sink’s water supply. You should be able to locate the shut-off valve under the sink. Turn it clockwise until it is tight. Then, open the faucet to release any of the remaining water contained inside the pipes.
Cleaning Your Aerator
According to Tool Report, the first item of business is to remove the aerator from the faucet. Use your screwdriver to loosen the device. Then use the pliers to unscrew it by turning it counterclockwise. Once it’s separated from the end of the faucet, you can set it aside on one of the paper towels.
Now it’s time to soak the aerator. Mix an equal amount of vinegar and water in a small container. Place the dirty aerator into the solution and allow it to soak for an entire overnight. The acids in the vinegar will loosen the debris and break down the stubborn mineral deposits.
In the morning, use the toothbrush to scrub away any of the remaining deposits and bacteria. Then turn the water supply back on and rinse the aerator with warm water to remove any remaining materials and vinegar. Once you’re sure the aerator is clean, attach it back onto the end of the faucet. Use your pliers to make certain it’s tight and secure. Otherwise, it might leak. Use the remaining paper towels to clean up your countertop.
In the end you must keep in mind that if you don’t regularly maintain your kitchen faucet aerator, you will be forced to purchase a new one every year or so, depending on how often you use your kitchen. But if you’re like most homeowners with kids, you’re going to be using your kitchen faucet a lot. It’s a best practice to regularly maintain your faucet aerator. It’s a simple process. Your family, and your wallet, will thank you for it.
