Cleaning the faucet aerator (tap aerator)

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  • OVERALL DIFFICULTY INDEX: 1/10
  • IF YOU HAVE NO TOOLS, YOU PAY $5 TO GET THEM FOR THIS JOB
  • IF YOU HAVE NO EXPERIENCE YOU SPEND 2 MINUTES TO CARRY OUT THIS JOB
  • NO SAFETY ISSUES RELATED TO THIS TASK
BEFORE YOU START
  • You might need pliers the first time to unscrew the aerator. See below how to tighten it by hand to avoid using a tool upon the next intervention.
  • The time indicated above does not take into account the waiting time described below which is of 15 to 30 minutes.
DISCLAIMER:
Our pictorials are of informative nature and do illustrate works carried out by ourselves at our own premises for our own use and satisfaction.
Readers who envisage to carry out similar works inspired by the below method shall do this at their own risks and liability.

Clogged Faucet Aerator Symptoms

Water does not flow smooth anymore, rather an uneven jet or more than one jet are seen.
The jet itself is transparent because water is no more mixed with air, reason why the faucet tipp is called an "aerator".

Tap aerator removal and cleaning

You might need pliers the first time, or else it will unscrew with your bare fingers.
Be careful not to damge the chrome if you use pliers. Insert a piece of paper or carton in between.
Take out the faucet tip and start by washing it with water to remove any stuck particles.
Use your finger to separate the aerator from the chrome ring and drop both into a small jar filled with white vinegar:
Leave them for 15 minutes at least before brushing them with an old tooth brush and washing them thoroughly under the water until no scale or dirt or solid particles are left:
Refit the tap filter and enjoy a white and smooth water jet with plenty of air bubbles:

Water consumption reduction from tap

In case your tap is not equipped with a fine mesh aerator, you can chose to fit a water saving aerator that drastically reduces the water consumption. You can buy here a complete set that allows you to replace all the aerators of your house; some provide a plastic wrench to safely unscrew them from the faucets, without risking any scratch or damage:

See also...