Expert Kansas City Plumbing Faucet Installation and Repair
Replacing a Faucet Aerator
An aerator controls the flow of the water as it leaves the faucet, and adds air to the water.
There are two reasons why an aerator is a must with faucets.
1) First, it controls the amount of water that leaves the faucet. The government standard that all faucets must meet regarding the amount of water that exits the faucet at any given time is 2.2 gallons of water per minute when the water is turned to high. Also, an aerator controls the stream of water exits the faucet to be a neat stream water and avoids splashing.
2) Second, the aerator adds air to the water as it comes through the faucet. This makes the water taste better.
Most people notice when an aerator needs to be replaced. The signs include the water stream is crooked and the water flow is reduced. This is because of calcium and corrosion build up within the aerator. Now the question is how to change an aerator?
There are not a lot of tools required to change an aerator. What you will need are some paper towels, a small channel lock wrench, gloves and a new aerator. The Springflow brand fits ninety to ninety-five percent of faucets, that is the ideal brand to purchase. Gloves are needed because the build up can produce sharp edges and the aerator itself will be a bit grimy and dirty.
To locate the aerator, turn the water on the faucet on, and where the water comes out is the location of the aerator. Before removing the aerator, place a few paper towels over the drain just in case the aerator falls into the sink upon removal. Using the channel lock wrench, turn the aerator a quarter of a turn counter clockwise (right to left) and than hand loosen and remove. To install the new aerator, hand screw the new one on to hand tight and than using the channel lock wrench, a quarter turn clockwise (left to right). Do not over tighten the aerator, this can cause damage to your faucet and the new aerator. Now, turn the water on to ensure good water flow. That is it you are done!
Watch our how to video for the step-by-step process for replacing a faucet aerator.
If at any time you feel this job is a bit confusing, or you just do not want to do it, give us a call, we’ll take care of it for you!
Kansas City Metro
19959 W. 162nd Street.
Olathe, KS 66062
Phone: 913-210-5818
E-mail: dispatch@andyspipedream.com
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