How to Clean a Faucet Aerator to Restore Water Pressure
The water from your faucet has slowed to a weak or sputtering stream, or it sprays sideways. Most of the time the culprit is a clogged aerator, not a plumbing problem deeper in the wall.
The aerator is the small screened tip that screws onto the end of a faucet spout. It mixes air into the water for a smooth, splash-free stream and catches grit. Over time, mineral scale and tiny debris collect in its fine screens and slow the flow or break it into an uneven spray. Cleaning it is one of the easiest plumbing fixes there is: the aerator unscrews, the parts soak to dissolve scale, and everything goes back together. Because it limits flow on purpose, a clogged aerator often gets blamed for low pressure when it just needs a rinse.
How the job is done
- 1
Unscrew the aerator from the spout
The aerator is twisted off the faucet tip by hand, or with pliers padded by a cloth to protect the finish, turning the direction that loosens it from the spout threads.
- 2
Disassemble and note the order
The screen, gasket, and any flow restrictor are separated and laid out in the order they came apart so they can be reassembled the same way.
- 3
Soak the parts to dissolve scale
The components are soaked in white vinegar to break down hard mineral deposits, then the loosened scale is brushed away from the fine screen with an old toothbrush.
- 4
Rinse and inspect
Each piece is rinsed clean under running water and checked to confirm the screen is clear and the rubber gasket is intact rather than torn or hardened.
- 5
Reassemble and reinstall
The parts are stacked back in their original order, threaded onto the spout hand-tight, and tested so the stream runs full and straight without leaking at the threads.
What a pro checks
- Lays the internal parts out in order so reassembly is correct
- Uses a plain vinegar soak to dissolve scale instead of abrasive scraping
- Pads pliers with cloth so the aerator finish is not scratched
- Inspects the gasket and replaces it if it is cracked or flattened
- Hand-tightens to avoid cross-threading the spout
- Notes that frequent clogging may point to hard water worth addressing
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Frequently asked questions
What if cleaning the aerator doesn't restore the pressure?
If flow is still weak with the aerator off, the issue is further upstream, such as a clogged supply line, a partially closed shutoff valve, or a failing cartridge, and is worth investigating separately.
How often should I clean the aerator?
It varies with water hardness, but cleaning it once or twice a year keeps the flow smooth. If you have hard water, you may notice buildup returning more quickly.
Can I just leave the aerator off for more pressure?
It's better to keep it on. Removing it raises water use and causes splashing, and the screen also stops grit from reaching the spout. A clean aerator gives a strong, smooth stream.
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