How To Clean Aerator On Kohler Kitchen Faucet

Disclaimer: faucetsrated.com is supported by its audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

You might notice the water flow in your faucet slowing down after some time. However, the reason might not be in the low water flow in your household's pipes. It could be the result of a clogged faucet aerator. This fitting is located at the tip of the spout and provides a non-splashing water flow with higher pressure and reduced water flow. Its purpose is to deliver a consistent flow of aerated water, so it helps to conserve water while producing a good flow. However, with time they tend to collect mineral deposits, which can lead to lowering water flow and erratic stream. So to keep the water flowing, it's important to clean the aerator from time to time. Here are a few tips on how to clean a faucet aerator.

Table of Contents

1 Step-By-Step Guide On How To Clean a Faucet Aerator?
- 1.1 Step 1 – Remove the Aerator
- 1.2 Step 2 – Clean Out Any Deposits Inside the Spout
- 1.3 Step 3 – Disassemble the Aerator
- 1.4 Step 4 – Prepare a Cleaning Solution
- 1.5 Step 5 – Reassemble the Unit
- 1.6 Step 6 – Screw the Aerator Onto the Spout

Step-By-Step Guide On How To Clean a Faucet Aerator?

how to clean a faucet aerator

Step 1 – Remove the Aerator

Before cleaning, start by removing the aerator itself, which is located at the tip of the spout. To do so, first, cover the drain, so you don't lose any small parts. Then, try unthreading the aerator with your hand by turning it clockwise when viewing from above.

If it's too tight and doesn't turn, use a pair of pliers. You can wrap a cloth or masking tape around the aerator in order to prevent any damage. Also, try not to squeeze the plier jaws too tight as it can deform the aerator.

Step 2 – Clean Out Any Deposits Inside the Spout

Check if there are any other parts left behind in the spout. Remove them as well. Next, clean the inside of the spout and remove any deposits or debris.

Step 3 – Disassemble the Aerator

Both kitchen and bathroom faucet aerators consist of several small parts: a cap, washer and insert. So unscrew the cap, pull out the rubber washer and push out the insert located in the cap.

Step 4 – Prepare a Cleaning Solution

Fill a bowl with hot water and add a decalcifying product. It can either use a natural method by using vinegar or lemon or a chemical method by using a store-bought descaling product.

Using vinegar is an easy and effective solution. So submerge all the parts of the aerator in the water and vinegar mix, and leave it overnight or for a couple of hours to dissolve mineral deposits. Next, thoroughly rinse it with clean water. If there are any deposits that haven't washed off, using a toothbrush to gently scrub it.

Check also the condition of the aerator. If the cap or filter are damaged, it's best to replace the aerator with a new one.

Step 5 – Reassemble the Unit

Dry the parts of the aerator and reassemble them in the original order.

Step 6 – Screw the Aerator Onto the Spout

Once the kitchen faucet aerator has been cleaned and reassembled, you can screw it back onto the spout. Use your hands to tighten it as much as you can and then take pliers to tighten it a bit more. However, make sure that you don't overtighten it as it can be damaging to the fixture.

Finish by running the water and checking for any leaks.

So with these few steps, you can restore your water pressure to its full potential with nice and even flow. Since the function of an aerator is similar to that of a filter, gradually it can accumulate dirt and debris around its openings. So you get lower water pressure. Moreover, this buildup can affect the taste and smell of your water. That's why it's important to regularly clean the aerator.