Faucets have aerators on them that can sometimes get stuck because of mineral buildup or corrosion. When this happens, the water pressure may drop or spray unevenly. It’s not a problem that will fix itself.
If you can get the aerator unstuck, you can remove it to clean away any mineral buildup or corrosion. However, if the aerator is damaged or heavily corroded, you may need to do a full replacement of the component.
This guide walks you through the step-by-step process for removing a stuck faucet aerator. If you run into resistance or signs of damage, you may need to stop and call a plumber.
Quick Takeaways
- Corrosion and mineral buildup are the leading causes of stuck faucet aerators.
- Most stuck aerators are easily fixable with basic household tools.
- You must take care to protect the faucet as you work.
- You don’t ever want to force the aerator because it may damage the faucet.
- Some scenarios will call for the advanced skills of a plumber.
Why Faucet Aerators Get Stuck
The aerator on a faucet is in charge of regulating water flow and reducing splashing, but over time, mineral buildup can cause it to stick. This problem is especially common in homes with hard water. In Niceville, this applies to a lot of properties because of the high mineral content in the local water supplies.
Salt air from nearby coastal areas can also lead to corrosion that eats away at the aerator threads. This may eventually lead to leaks or reduced water pressure. Overtightening during installation can cause the aerator to get stuck, too.
How to Remove an Aerator That Is Stuck
Once you determine that you’re dealing with a stuck aerator, you can follow a few basic steps to try and remove it. You’ll want to be especially careful not to damage the faucet or its finish.
Try Removing the Aerator by Hand First
Use your fingers to grip the aerator and try turning it counterclockwise (to the left) to get it loose. If it doesn’t move easily, don’t try to force it. Instead, skip to the next step.
Use Pliers the Right Way (Without Damaging the Faucet)
Next, you’re going to use pliers to try and get the aerator loose. But first, you must cover it with a rubber grip, painter’s tape, or a cloth. This ensures you don’t scrape the finish as you twist it. Plus, it gives you a little extra leverage to turn the component.
Loosen Mineral Buildup With Vinegar
Some aerators are difficult to remove because they have so much mineral buildup stuck to them. If you think this might be the case, wrap the part with a cloth that’s soaked in vinegar.
Leave it on for about 30 minutes to let it fully break down as much of the buildup as possible. Then, try to get the aerator loose with your hand or pliers.
Use a Rubber Jar Opener or Strap Wrench
Rubber jar openers and strap wrenches let you get strong traction on the aerator without scratching the finish. These tools are ideal for scenarios that require extra grip.
When Heat Can Help (And When It Shouldn’t)
You may also be able to use heat to loosen the aerator. The best way to do this is by wrapping it with a hot cloth or warming it with a blow dryer for a short time. The heat can loosen the buildup so it becomes easier to turn. Don’t ever use open flames; you don’t want to damage the seals.
What Not to Do When Removing a Stuck Aerator
Common mistakes can turn a simple fix into an expensive repair.
Here are the main ones to avoid:
- Don’t force it: Forcing the aerator can crack the threads.
- Don’t use bare pliers: Bare pliers easily scratch finishes on faucets.
- Don’t overtighten during reinstall: Overtightening causes future removal problems.
- Don’t ignore damaged threads: Damaged threads lead to leaks.
When to Call a Plumber for Stuck Aerator Removal
In some cases, DIY removal isn’t going to be the safest option.
There are clear moments when a plumber should step in with professional repair:
- The aerator remains stuck even after soaking.
- Removing it could damage the faucet’s finish.
- The threads appear worn, stripped, or corroded.
- Water pressure problems continue after troubleshooting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you remove an aerator that won’t unscrew?
Start by soaking the aerator in vinegar to get rid of mineral buildup. Next, use padded pliers to gently unscrew the aerator by turning it counterclockwise. If it won’t move, don’t force it. Call a plumber.
Can WD-40 be used to loosen a stuck faucet aerator?
Yes, WD-40 may help, but be sure to use it sparingly and always rinse the aerator thoroughly after you finish. You don’t want to leave residue behind or contaminate your drinking water.
Which way do you turn a faucet aerator to remove it?
On most setups, you turn the aerator counterclockwise (to the left) to get it loose.
What if the aerator breaks while removing it?
If the aerator were to break, the best thing to do is call a plumber.
Do all faucets have removable aerators?
Most of today’s newer faucets come with removable aerators, but not all of them. Some recessed and specialty models require a special key or tool for removal. There are some older models that don’t let you remove the aerator at all.
Schedule Faucet Repair in Niceville, FL
Doing an aerator removal without damaging the faucet or its finish is crucial to avoiding costly repairs. That’s why it’s always best to call a plumber if you can’t get the part loose.
Here at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Niceville, we offer fast faucet repairs because we understand how essential proper water flow is to your overall plumbing system. Our plumbers have years of experience replacing aerators safely and correctly.
We are the punctual plumbers you can rely on for expert plumbing solutions. We serve all of Niceville and the surrounding areas. Call us today to book a plumbing repair.