A leaky or dripping faucet is not just an annoyance—it can waste hundreds of gallons of water each year and increase your utility bills. While leaks can originate from various parts of your faucet, one of the most common culprits is the aerator. The aerator, a small device attached to the tip of your faucet, mixes air with water to create a steady, splash-free stream. Over time, mineral deposits, debris, or worn-out washers can cause it to leak or drip. Fortunately, fixing a faucet aerator is often a straightforward task that you can complete yourself. This guide walks you through the process step by step.
Step 1: Identify the Problem
Before you begin any repairs, it’s important to determine whether the aerator is indeed the source of the leak. Signs that your aerator is causing the issue include:
- Water dripping continuously from the faucet tip even when the faucet is fully closed.
- A distorted or uneven water stream.
- Visible mineral buildup or debris on the aerator screen.
If these symptoms match what you observe, the aerator is likely the problem.
Step 2: Gather Your Tools and Materials
You don’t need an elaborate toolkit to fix a leaky aerator. Common items you might need include:
- Adjustable wrench or pliers
- Teflon tape (optional)
- Replacement aerator (if needed)
- Small brush or an old toothbrush
- White vinegar for cleaning
- Soft cloth or rag
Having these items ready will make the repair process smoother.
Step 3: Remove the Aerator
- Turn off the water supply to prevent accidental splashes. While it’s not strictly necessary for this small repair, it adds safety.
- Use your fingers or an adjustable wrench to unscrew the aerator from the faucet tip. Turn counterclockwise. If it’s stuck due to mineral deposits, wrap a soft cloth around it to prevent scratches, then gently use pliers.
- Take note of the aerator’s components. Most aerators have:
- Outer casing
- Screen (or mesh)
- Washer or O-ring
Step 4: Inspect and Clean the Aerator
Leaking often occurs because mineral deposits or debris block the aerator screen. To clean it:
- Disassemble the aerator carefully, separating the screen and washer.
- Soak all parts in white vinegar for 30–60 minutes to dissolve mineral buildup.
- Use a small brush or toothbrush to remove stubborn particles.
- Rinse thoroughly under running water.
If the washer or O-ring is damaged or hardened, replace it with a new one of the same size.
Step 5: Reassemble and Reinstall
Once all components are clean and in good condition:
- Reassemble the aerator parts in the correct order.
- Wrap a small amount of Teflon tape around the threads to ensure a tight seal, if necessary.
- Screw the aerator back onto the faucet by turning it clockwise.
- Tighten gently with your fingers first, then use the wrench if needed. Avoid over-tightening, which can damage the threads.
Step 6: Test the Faucet
Turn on the water slowly and observe the stream:
- The water should flow evenly without leaks.
- If dripping persists, double-check the washer placement and aerator screen.
- In rare cases, the leak may be coming from deeper within the faucet, requiring further inspection.
Step 7: Prevent Future Leaks
Maintaining your faucet aerator can prevent future drips:
- Clean the aerator every 6–12 months to prevent mineral buildup.
- Avoid overtightening the aerator during reinstallation.
- Consider installing a water softener if you have hard water, as it reduces mineral deposits.
A leaky or dripping faucet aerator is a common but easily solvable problem. By following these steps—identifying the issue, cleaning or replacing the aerator parts, and reinstalling properly—you can restore your faucet’s performance and prevent water waste. Regular maintenance can help your faucets last longer, saving both water and money over time.