How to Remove a Faucet Aerator

The faucet aerator fits over the edge of the faucet and helps to reduce the amount of water that runs out of the tap. Faucet aerators mix the water in the spout with air, helping to cut water usage in a household by up to 30 percent. These aerators consist of a little wire mesh which fits over the end of the faucet, so they have a tendency to pick up any dirt and debris which is in the water. For that reason, it is sometimes necessary to remove and clean your aerator. Removing the device from your faucet can be tricky, and if you are having trouble taking it off of the spout, follow these handy tips to get the job done.

Quick Removal of the Faucet Aerator

The simplest way to remove your aerator is with a pair of pliers tightly gripping the screw section. Sometimes, the pliers tend to slip and move, rather than the screw, so you may need to apply a dishcloth or rag around the pliers, and then try again. Keep the grip tight on your tool and push hard. If you have never removed the aerator before, you may find that it is very difficult to move. Persevere, as it only takes a bit of effort, but if you are still having troubles, try these other solutions.

Try a Rubber Wrench

Rubber wrenches can help to grip the aerator screw more tightly than pliers, and they are less likely to slip or fall off. Using your rubber wrench, and holding the tool as hard as you can, give a quick tug. If nothing happens, try a tug in the opposite direction. Don't give up immediately, try doing the same thing a few times, as you may need to loosen the screw a little before it will turn. If you find that it is still not moving, then you will need to apply some chemical persuasion to your screw.

Use Vinegar

Vinegar on the screw may seem like the worst thing that you could do to a metal object, but if you have a stuck screw, it is possible that corrosion or debris might be preventing it from turning. Place some vinegar into a bag, and place the bag over the end of the tap, so that the aerator is completely contained within the bag, and submerged in vinegar. Tie it on tightly, and leave for a few hours. Try to remove the device again.

Try WD-40

If nothing so far has worked, then you can fall back on the workman's old reliable, the can of WD-40. You may want to open a window when you spray this, as it isn't very pleasant, but it will get the job done. Shake your can hard, and then point the nozzle at the aerator screw (not at yourself). Spray for 3 to 5 seconds until the screw is covered in WD-40. Leave for a few minutes, and then try using the rubber wrench on the screw again.