How to Repair a Sink Aerator

A clogged sink aerator will show itself when you experience weakened water pressure for both the sink's hot and cold water. First, make certain that the water valves beneath the sink are sufficiently turned on. Other tip-offs that an aerator needs repair is when the water flow from the faucet spout is uneven, often with a stream of the water spraying in a wayward direction. The aerator, located on the tip of the faucet spout, may simply need cleaning.

Things You'll Need

• Adjustable pliers
• Masking tape
• White vinegar
• Old toothbrush

Instructions

1. Raise the faucet's lift rod to lower the pop-up stopper, or cover the open sink drain. This protects the aerator or any other object from possibly falling into the drain. Dry your hands and wipe the aerator dry with a rag. Grip the aerator and twist the the aerator clockwise to loosen and remove it. Wrap masking tape around both jaws of a pair of adjustable pliers, if you are unable to remove the aerator by hand. This will protect the aerator from scratches or additional damage.

2. Grip the aerator, using the pliers, and unscrew the aerator from the faucet, using a clockwise motion. Remove the aerator. Notice the different parts that are contained inside the aerator body, and note the order in which the parts are stacked.

3. Remove the parts from inside the aerator, and carefully place each part on the counter beside the sink. Align these parts in the exact order in which you removed them. The possible parts that will be inside the aerator include: a rubber washer, flow restrictor, mixer, bushing, screen and outer housing.

4. Turn on the sink water and rinse out the aerator. Rinse the debris and rust from each part you removed from the aerator body and place it back into the aerator. Start with the part you removed last and work towards the first part. Pay particular attention to the screen and the mixer, which often collect dirt. If the parts are particularly dirty, proceed to Step 5.

5. Soak the aerator parts overnight in white vinegar. Scrub each part, using an old toothbrush, and insert each part back into the aerator body. Install the aerator onto the faucet and hand tighten.

Tips & Warnings

• Replace the washer inside the aerator if it is brittle, and replace any of the aerator parts that are cracked or broken.

References

• Family Handyman: Unclog A Kitchen Faucet Aerator