Symptoms
- Water splashes out sideways instead of a clean stream
- Flow sputters or spits air
- Visible white or green crust on the aerator
- Problem is worse on the hot side
Likely causes
- CommonMineral scale buildup in the aerator screenHard water leaves deposits that narrow the mesh openings.
- PossibleSediment from recent plumbing workDebris shaken loose elsewhere in the pipes can lodge here first.
- PossibleSmall particle stuck in one aerator holeCauses an uneven or angled stream rather than a full clog.
- Less commonWorn aerator threads not cleaning uniformlyUsually only after many years of the same aerator.
What to do
- Unscrew the aerator from the tip of the spout by hand, or use pliers wrapped in a cloth if it's tight.
- Take the aerator apart, noting the order of the small internal pieces so you can reassemble it correctly.
- Rinse each piece under running water to remove loose debris.
- Soak the pieces in white vinegar for 30 minutes to dissolve mineral scale, then scrub with an old toothbrush.
- Rinse thoroughly and reassemble the aerator in the same order it came apart.
- Screw the aerator back onto the spout hand-tight, then snug slightly with pliers wrapped in a cloth.
- Run the faucet to confirm a clean, even stream with no splashing.
Tools and parts
- Pliers
- Old toothbrush
- Vinegar
Replacement aeratorSearch: “faucet aerator replacement standard thread”
When to call a pro
Replace the aerator entirely if it's too corroded to clean, or call a plumber if flow is still poor with a clean aerator.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.