If you find that your kitchen or bathroom faucet is suddenly running slow, chances are, you have a clogged aerator. Maybe your initial reaction is to call a plumber to fix the problem. But did you know that you can fix your clogged aerator on your own, so long as you possess the right tools?
This is especially true if you have an aerator removal tool stored in your tool box. According to the professionals at Aerator.com, attempting to fix the clogged aerator without one means you run the risk of damaging both the aerator and the faucet. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t safely remove and clean the clogged aerator in just a few easy steps using some basic tools lying around the house. You simply need to know what you’re doing.
A recent report in Men’s Journal states that slow faucets are usually caused by one of three plumbing problems. The most common of these is said to be an aerator that has experienced significant sediment buildup. Also, kinks in the supply line under the faucet, issues with the shut-off valve along with cartridge/stem problems can contribute to a low pressure faucet.
The easiest fix? Cleaning the clogged aerator.
How to Fix Your Clogged Aerator
Let’s get right to it. You will find the aerator attached to the very tip, or opening, on the faucet. Its purpose is to add air to the flowing tap water to create a steady stream while, at the same time, reducing your water usage which helps the environment and your pocketbook.
The little disk-shaped aerator is constructed with mesh that’s engineered to remove sediment from the tap water as it runs through the faucet. Given enough time, the aerator will become clogged with sediment, which slows the flow of water.
First step. Begin by removing the aerator. For most faucet models, you can simply unscrew the faucet end, using either a wrench or a faucet aerator removal tool, by turning it counterclockwise. Be careful not to scratch the faucet finish.
Some faucet brands require a special key to remove the aerator. You can purchase one of these at your local big-box hardware store or from an online store that specializes in aerators and plumbing fixtures.
Once the aerator is removed, go ahead and turn the faucet back on. If the flow is much stronger now that the aerator is no longer in the way, then for certain, you’ve found your problem. However, if the water flow is still slow, then you need to look for kinks in the hoses that run under the sink.
Next step. Thoroughly rinse the dirty aerator out under the faucet. If you find that there’s hard, calcified sediment buildup that won’t come off, you will need to soak the aerator in a vinegar solution for a few hours, or perhaps overnight. If that doesn’t work, you will need to purchase a new aerator that’s compatible with your faucet brand. Again, you can find these at your local hardware store, or you can order one online. They usually run around $10, but prices can vary.
Checking the Supply Lines
If, after cleaning or replacing your faucet aerator, the water is still running too slowly, you need to make a check on the supply lines. It’s not unusual for supply lines to kink or for shut-off valves to get “knocked closed” if you store cleaning supplies and tools under the sink.
Here’s what you need to do: open the sink cabinet and make a check on the two hot and cold supply lines that run from the from the two shut-off valves up to the underside of the faucet. Make certain the hoses are running freely from the valves to the faucet with no kinks or breaks in the lines.
When that’s done, make a check on the shut-off vales to see if something hasn’t knocked into them and/or caused one or both to close. Each valve needs to be turned counterclockwise to ensure they are fully open.
Generally speaking, if you’re experience low pressure water flow from the faucet, it won’t be the fault of the supply lines or the shut-off valves. Most of the time, the problem will simply be a clogged aerator. The cleaning and/or replacement of the aerator is a relatively simple task. But keep in mind, if you feel you are not up to the job, then you should call in a licensed plumber to solve the problem once and for all.
Hey welcome to my blog . I am a modern women who love to share any tips on lifestyle, health, travel. Hope you join me in this journey!
Speak Your Mind