What is a faucet aerator and what does it do? This is a question all DIY plumbers should know the answer to and if you don’t, you will. Believe it or not, it is one of the most essential tools in your home for conserving water.

Aerators are found at the tip of your faucet head. They divide the water flow into multiple streams using a mesh screen. By doing so, this allows water to mix with air, causing a more consistent flow. However, the water flow is still able to maintain the same pressure even though the aerator restricts the amount of water flowing from the faucet.

Functions

1. Prevents Splashing: without the aerator water would flow out of your faucet, splashing sporadically. The aerator centralizes the flow of water through a mesh screen, limiting unwanted splashing.
2. Water Conservation: depending on which aerator is being used, a restricter is in place that can reduce the amount of water flow to below 1 gallon per minute (gpm).
3. Filters Debris: the aerator’s mesh screen catches debris such as rust and limestone. However, over time the aerator will clog up, limiting your water flow. It is important to check all aerators in your home regularly to prevent this from happening.

If you have any questions about faucet aerators or low water pressure in your house, or if you’d like to have your home serviced by a professional, contact Pro-Fetick Plumbing. We service Lexington and surrounding cities like Frankfort, Georgetown, Nicholasville, and Versailles. Contact us at 859-263-5727. You can also request work through our website at www.pro-fetick.com.