What is an Aerator?

Aerators are small metal screens that control the water flow by allowing little air pockets into the stream when water pours out.

When water is released, the air pockets prevent the water from splashing and shapes it into a steady stream. This reduces the water pressure while at the same time, making the water feel like it’s still high-pressure. Aerators also help to conserve water since the air inside the water reduces the amount of water that’s used. Although an aerator’s main purpose is not to filter the water, it can act as a filter for lead and other debris that may pass through the pipes.

Types of Aerators

When replacing your aerator, it’s important to determine what type your faucet needs. That is determined on whether your sink has a female or male aerator. Male aerators have screw threads on the outside and are designed to be screwed on the bottom the faucet, while female aerators have screw threads on the inside. Aerators usually come in two sizes: regular and junior.

How to Replace an Aerator

Aerators should be replaced about every year and they should be cleaned as needed. To replace your aerator, follow these steps:

1. Remove the old aerator. Depending on the type of aerator you have, you can do this with a wrench or by simply unscrewing it.
2. Dry the inside of the faucet with a cloth.
3. Screw the new aerator on tightly either by hand or with a wrench.
4. Turn on the water to test it. If there’s a steady stream of water, it’s done. If there’s water spilling out from the sides, it needs to be tighter.