How to Rebuild a Faucet Aerator
- 1). Place a strip of masking tape around the aerator. The faucet aerator is connected to the end of the faucet tap where the water comes out. Masking tape is used to avoid marring the finish on the aerator when you remove it.
- 2). Grasp the aerator with the pliers. Turn the aerator counterclockwise to remove it from the faucet tap. Remove the rubber washer that is located inside the end of the tap. It can be pulled out of the tap by hand or by using a pair of needle-nose pliers.
- 3). Remove the filter assembly from the metal aerator ring by pushing on the screen. You can see the screen by looking at the bottom of the aerator. When you push on the screen, the filter housing will pop out of the threaded end of the aerator
- 4). Set the filter parts on the counter in a row. Take a digital photo of the parts so that you can refer back to the photo if you should forget how the filter assembly goes back together after you clean it.
- 5). Place the filter parts in a bowl of vinegar. You only need to use enough vinegar to cover the parts. Allow the parts to soak for at least an hour. Scrub each part with a toothbrush after soaking and rinse with water.
- 6). Inspect the rubber washer. Replace it if it is worn or cracked. Place the rubber washer back into the end of the tap. Place the filter parts back into the filter housing beginning with the screen. Insert the bushing after the screen followed by the mixer and flow restrictor.
- 7). Set the filter housing into the metal aerator ring in the same position from which you removed it. Reconnect the aerator to the faucet tap and turn the water on. Increased water flow and a normal downward stream of water means that the aerator is clean and properly reassembled.
- 8). Purchase a new filter assembly if the aerator still causes low water pressure or sideways streams of water to come out of the tap. Take the old aerator filter assembly with you to the local home remodeling center. New aerator filters are pre-assembled and ready to install in your faucet.
