How To Repair A Kitchen Faucet Aerator

Give these faucet aerator troubleshooting tips a try:

• Turn off the water going to the sink. Shut-off valves should be located under the sink. If you can’t find any valves under the sink or they do not work you will have to turn off the main water valve. This isn’t *strictly* necessary, but it is a good safety practice, because sometimes faucets will become so corroded that when you try to remove the aerator, the end breaks off. It doesn’t happen often, but it does happen, and it’s better safe than sorry.
• Open the faucetto alleviate pressure and to make sure the water supply is shut off.
• Cover the drain holes with a rag to keep from losing small parts.
• Use your hand to twist the very end of the faucet, right where the water comes out. It’s basically like a mason jar lid that holds the aerator in place. Most are simply hand tight and you should be able to loosen it right off.
• If that doesn’t work, take a tip from the mason jar analogy and try twisting with a rag or a grippy jar opener. If it still doesn’t move, use a pair of wide pliers wrapped in a rag to prevent scratching the finish.
• When you get it apart, you have the choice of cleaning it. Inspect the interior of the valve for mineral deposits. Vinegar can help clear away mineral deposits. Otherwise, take it down to your hardware store and grab a replacement.
• Clean the faucet body out with a screwdriver. It doesn’t do much good to get a clean faucet aerator if it’s just going to get re-clogged in a week.
• Flush out any remaining debris by turning the water supply valve on slightly.
• Pop in the new aerator, reassemble the faucet and slowly turn the valve back on to let the water run freely.
• Congratulations! You just replaced your faucet aerator.