An aerator is a fine screen on the faucets in your home used for drinking water. The aerator is the small round piece at the very end of your faucet where the water comes out. Moen produces a variety of faucet aerators. They install differently and provide a variety of flow patterns and dispense the water at different flow rates.
Over time, aerators can accumulate debris and mineral deposits, which can restrict water pressure or distort the spray pattern. Some faucets have an open waterway with no visible aerator/screen. The concealed aerator (3) is generally not visible and will require a tool for removal. Removal tools are only used for faucets with a concealed aerator (3).
Identify your aerator type
- This oval shaped aerator is a press-fit design with no screws.
- There are 4 tabs that hold this in place.
- Next you will need a 7/64" Hex Wrench to remove the 2 hex screws located on either side of the aerator.
- You will need to place the slot of the provided removal tool (4) so it fits across 2 of the indentations.
- You will first need to gently pry the faucet throat away from the underneath of the spout.
Disassemble the aerator
Exterior Shell: An exterior shell (1) is a metal container that houses the aerator pill (2) and the workings of the aerator. Rubber Seal: This rubber seal (4) creates watertight fit between the aerator and the faucet. If your aerator has several pieces take it apart completely - but make sure you pay attention to the order of the parts so you can put it back together again. You can take a photo or notes to refer to.
Clean the parts
Water is sometimes all that is needed to rinse off the aerator parts. Soak the aerator in a glass of vinegar to loosen the minerals. Usually, five minutes of soaking will loosen the particles. Use the toothbrush to scrub out the inside of the aerator. Next, rinse everything well.
Reassemble and maintain
Remember to clean your aerators at least every 6 months. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) recommends cleaning the aerators on your faucets used for drinking water at least every 6 months. You can make a reminder in your calendar or phone.
Aerators help keep lead and other particles out of your drinking water. Aerators help keep lead and other particles out of your water.
For answers to your safe food and water questions, call MSU Extension's Food Safety Hotline at 1-877-643-9882.