A common cause for slow water flow from your faucet is a clogged faucet aerator. Fortunately, unclogging it is a simple fix. Sediment that flows in the water supply lines can get trapped in the aerator screen. If your aerator is two years or older, consider replacing it. It is recommended that aerators be changed once every 2-3 years as they get worn, grimy, and/or clogged.
For bathrooms, it is recommended that the flow for that aerator be 1.0 gallon per minute. For kitchen aerators, the recommended flow is 1.5 gallons per minute or less.
To clean the aerator, follow these simple steps:
- Plug the drain so you don’t lose any small parts.
- Take the aerator off the end of the faucet. You should be able to unscrew it with a wrench or pliers or by hand. Covering the pliers with electrical tape will keep them from damaging the aerator.
- Clean the aerator screen and parts. You can use a toothbrush and water to scrub debris off the pieces.
- Be sure the holes in the screen are clear. Soaking the aerator parts overnight in white vinegar will remove lime scale and calcium build-up from hard water. Take the aerator apart. There are several parts inside the aerator. As you take them out, pay close attention to how they fit together. This will make it easier to reassemble.
- Clean the aerator screen and parts. You can use a toothbrush and water to scrub debris off the pieces. Be sure the holes in the screen are clear. Soaking the aerator parts overnight in white vinegar will remove lime scale and calcium build-up from hard water.
- Reassemble the aerator and screw it back on the faucet. It doesn’t have to be very tight. If water leaks above the aerator after you’ve hand-tightened it, use the pliers to give it a small turn.
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Your water should flow freely now.
Note: If parts are damaged or get broken in the process, replace the entire aerator. Take the aerator being replaced with you to the hardware store so you can shop for the correct replacement. The two most common aerators are standard-dual thread aerators (fit both male and female threads) and Chicago-style aerators, which are available as either male or female threads.