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Stesso
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Inspect Aerator for Debris — Clean or Replace Faucet and Showerhead Aerators

Beginner3 hours

Part of project

How to Increase Water Pressure in Your House · Step 3 of 3

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In this video

Once the aerator is removed, turn it over and tap it to dislodge any sediment or debris. Inspect the screen and internal components to see the extent of the mineral buildup. You can see the small particles that were blocking the tiny holes and restricting water flow.

Goal: Identify the blockage within the aerator

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FAQs

What specific tools, beyond a multi-screwdriver and pliers, might I need for this water pressure project?

You might also need an adjustable wrench for the PRV or stubborn aerators, and a bucket to catch any water during disassembly. Having a small brush or a de-scaling agent can be very helpful for thoroughly cleaning mineral deposits from aerators.

Are there any crucial safety precautions I should take before starting to work on my home's water pressure?

Always shut off the main water supply to your house before attempting to adjust or replace the PRV or clean aerators. This prevents accidental flooding or leaks. Also, wear gloves to protect your hands from grime and potential sharp edges.

How much should I expect to spend if I need to replace parts like a Pressure Reducing Valve or multiple aerators?

A new Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) can cost $50 to $200 for the part itself, depending on the model and features. Individual faucet or showerhead aerators are much more affordable, typically ranging from $5 to $15 each. Factor these potential costs if simple cleaning or adjustments don't resolve the issue.

I've checked the main water valve and cleaned my aerators, but my water pressure is still low. What should I troubleshoot next?

If the main valve is fully open and aerators are clean, the Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV) is the next most likely culprit. Locate the PRV and try adjusting its screw clockwise to increase pressure. If adjustment doesn't help, or if the valve appears damaged, it likely needs replacement.

Transcript
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Okay, here it comes. Okay, so there's some stuff in there and I'm hoping that that's all that the problem is, yeah, okay, so I don't know if you can see this but there's some sediment and debris in there that would certainly clog it up and it's tying a little stuff. But if you look at the size of these little holes, they're tiny and it doesn't take a whole lot to plug them up. And so I got a washer that fell out there, I'm just going to start that and try to clean it up. Now I don't know if you can see the stuff that's out here, but look it down in the sink. A bunch of debris. So I got the aerator off and I've had a bunch of crap in my sink now on it.

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