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The world is changing rapidly and with this comes so many problems. But it is not feasible to go to experts for the solutions for each of them. There are few things you can do to get things right by yourself by searching on the internet.
Are you noticing the slow flow of water from your tap? A faucet aerator is a small thing present in every house, but you do not notice it until it requires maintenance or replacement. Now before getting into the size details of aerators. Let us see below what exactly are faucet aerators and what purpose do they serve?
What is a faucet aerator?
The faucet aerator is a small part fixed at the end of the faucet. It has a thin mesh screen that breaks the water flow into small streams and adds air between these streams.
Considerably it is a vital part of your faucet because, without this, the water comes out splashing. It is not a great thing as it wastes plenty of water and ruins your washing experience.
What do they do?
Faucet aerator comes in various sizes and flow rates. It usually depends on your choices. As the name aerator demonstrates, it adds air into the water stream for the smooth running of the water from the tap.
The aerator help in creating multiple water streams. While adding the air at the same time with the help of tiny holes in its mesh. And reduce the volume of water. It also increases the sense of high pressure to serve the purpose effortlessly.
Now, when you are aware of its working. We can move on to specifying the size of the faucet aerator.
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Determine the size of the faucet aerator
It will help you save an extra penny and your time if you are doing small chores such as cleaning and replacing the faucets all by yourself. If you know the size of your faucet aerator, you can easily buy it from any online store without the fear of getting the wrong size. Given below few other features are to be understood to complete your aerator research.
Features of aerator
- Male/female thread
Aerators usually come in three different types. The first one is the Male aerator which comprises threads on the outside. And female aerators contain strings inside. You have to look after unscrewing the aerator from the faucet.
If the faucet has threads on the outside, it is male, and you need a female aerator. Similarly, if the faucet has cords on the inside, then it is female. And you need to buy a male aerator.
Some faucet comes with a dual aerator. Which contains both female threads on the inside and male threads on the outside. Therefore observe when replacing the aerator
- Size
Before going to purchase a new aerator determining the size is very crucial. Here is a simple method to measure it by coins. Unscrew the aerator and place it on the quarter or nickel. The flat sides of the penny should be visible from the top when you place the coin beneath the aerator.
If your current aerator is of the size of a quarter, then you will need a regular aerator. And if it is the size of a nickel, then you will need a junior size. Or if it is equal to dime size, then go for a thumb tom aerator.
Usually, the regular aerator is 15 /16” and 55/64” female in size, and the junior aerator is 13/16” male and 3/4” female in size.
- Style
Just like the faucets have various types and designs, the aerators also come in two different styles. The first one is a stationary aerator, and the other one is a swivel aerator.
As its name suggests, the stationary aerator does not move, and it is the most commonly used aerator in residents. Its water stream is larger and whiter as compared to the other ones.
The swivel style is perfect for trendy setups and has become a popular part of modern homes. You direct its water flow by moving it around according to your need.
Benefits of having an aerator
- Save water
Who does not want to use such things that are environmentally friendly and save plenty of water? The faucet aerator does the same.
- Water pressure
The faucet aerator gives the feel of high water pressure while maintaining low volume. It satisfies the need and helps in places where water pressure is already low.
- Reduce faucet noise
Aerators help in the smooth flow of water through pipes. It enhances the water streaming by giving the sensation of pressure while dispensing less water.
- Water stream
The faucet aerator shapes the water coming out of the faucet. Water stream depends on your choice whether you want shower spray, splashing, or laminar stream. Each stream works uniquely.
- Saves soap
Aerated water tends to form bubbles, which helps in activating the soap using for dishwashing. Therefore, You have to use less soap.
- Reduce utility bills
With various flow rates and pressurized water streams, you can get the job done in less amount time. Significantly, it will reduce the utility bills.
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Maintenance of aerator
Maintaining the aerator is an easy task. It does not take a ton of effort to clean it. You can tell by the uneven flow of water from the faucet that it needs cleaning. Sometimes the mineral residue buildup on a thin mesh of aerator and blocks the water to stream smoothly. You can eliminate it by brushing it away. If it is not working, use water and vinegar dip with 50 50 proportion to loosen up the buildup.
If you do this maintenance now and then, you can increase the life of your aerator. However, if you still need to replace it, this size guide will help.
How to Replace a Faucet Aerator
Conclusion
When you are planning to clean it by yourself, the size of the faucet aerator matters a lot. Once you figure out the correct measurements, you can easily do the replacement. It will take just a few minutes and some coins from your counter, and you can do the task with the help of an expert.
