Fixing a Clogged or Leaking Sink Aerator (Troubleshooting Guide)

On this page

Quick answer
Confirm the symptom
Tools and prep
Step-by-step troubleshooting
Common causes table
Parts matching
When to call a pro
FAQ
Related guides

Quick answer

To fix a clogged or leaking sink aerator, first turn off the water supply. Unscrew the aerator from the faucet, clean or replace it, then reassemble. Ensure all parts are tight to prevent leaks.

Confirm the symptom

Water flow is weak or splashes out of the faucet.
Water drips from the aerator even when the faucet is off.
Aerator is clogged with mineral deposits or debris.
Noisy or sputtering water flow.
Aerator is loose or wobbly.

Tools and prep

Adjustable wrench or pliers
Flathead screwdriver
Vinegar or CLR cleaner
Soft brush or old toothbrush
Replacement aerator (if needed)
Towel or rag to catch water
Turn off water supply to the sink.
Place a bucket or towel under the aerator to catch water and debris.

Step-by-step troubleshooting

Turn Off Water Supply
Do: Locate the water supply valves under the sink and turn them clockwise to shut off the water.
Observe: Water should stop flowing from the faucet.
Means: Prevents water from spraying out while working on the aerator.
Next: Proceed to remove the aerator.
Remove the Aerator
Do: Use an adjustable wrench or pliers to unscrew the aerator from the faucet. You may need to use a flathead screwdriver to apply gentle pressure and turn it counterclockwise.
Observe: The aerator should come off with a few turns.
Means: Allows access to the inside of the aerator for cleaning or replacement.
Next: Clean the aerator.
Clean the Aerator
Do: Soak the aerator in vinegar or CLR cleaner for about 30 minutes to dissolve mineral deposits. Use a soft brush or old toothbrush to scrub away any remaining debris.
Observe: The aerator should be free of debris and mineral buildup.
Means: Restores proper water flow through the aerator.
Next: Inspect the aerator for damage.
Inspect the Aerator
Do: Check for any cracks, damage, or worn-out parts. If the aerator is damaged, it may need to be replaced.
Observe: The aerator should be in good condition with no visible damage.
Means: Ensures the aerator will function properly after reinstallation.
Next: Reassemble the aerator.
Reassemble the Aerator
Do: Screw the aerator back onto the faucet by hand, then use the wrench to tighten it securely. Be careful not to overtighten.
Observe: The aerator should be securely attached to the faucet with no leaks.
Means: Ensures proper water flow and prevents leaks.
Next: Turn the water supply back on.
Turn Water Supply Back On
Do: Turn the water supply valves counterclockwise to restore water flow to the faucet.
Observe: Water should flow smoothly from the faucet with no leaks.
Means: Confirms the aerator is working properly.
Next: Test the faucet.
Test the Faucet
Do: Run the water for a few seconds to ensure it flows smoothly and there are no leaks.
Observe: The water should flow smoothly with no sputtering or leaks.
Means: Verifies the repair was successful.
Next: Clean up the work area.
Clean Up
Do: Remove any tools and debris from the work area. Dry off any remaining water.
Observe: The work area should be clean and dry.
Means: Ensures a safe and tidy workspace.
Next: None

Common causes

Cause	Likelihood	Difficulty	Part often needed
Mineral buildup Hard water deposits can clog the aerator, reducing water flow.	Common	Easy	Vinegar or CLR cleaner
Debris in the aerator Small particles can get trapped in the aerator, blocking water flow.	Common	Easy	Soft brush or old toothbrush
Loose aerator Over time, the aerator can become loose, causing leaks or uneven water flow.	Sometimes	Easy	None
Damaged aerator The aerator may have cracks or worn-out parts, leading to leaks or poor water flow.	Sometimes	Easy–Medium	Replacement aerator
Corroded faucet threads Corrosion can prevent the aerator from sealing properly, causing leaks.	Rare	Medium	Pipe joint compound or Teflon tape
Low water pressure Issues with the water supply can result in weak water flow through the aerator.	Rare	Hard	None

Parts matching

When selecting a replacement aerator, ensure it matches the thread size and type of your faucet. Common sizes include 15/16-inch and 55/64-inch.

Standard aerator (15/16-inch or 55/64-inch)
Aerator with built-in mesh screen
Aerator with adjustable flow restrictor
Aerator with swivel feature for easier cleaning
Aerator with different spray patterns (e.g., aerated, spray, stream)

Consider a high-quality aerator with a lifetime warranty for long-lasting performance.

When to call a professional

If the aerator is severely damaged and cannot be removed or replaced.
If there are persistent leaks or water flow issues after attempting repairs.
If you suspect a problem with the water supply or plumbing beyond the aerator.
If you are not comfortable performing the repair yourself.

FAQ

How often should I clean my sink aerator?

It's a good idea to clean your sink aerator every 3-6 months, depending on your water quality. Regular cleaning helps maintain proper water flow and prevents mineral buildup.

Can I use bleach to clean my aerator?

It's not recommended to use bleach, as it can damage the aerator and plumbing. Stick with vinegar or a commercial cleaner like CLR.

What if my aerator is stuck and won't come off?

If the aerator is stuck, try soaking it in vinegar or using penetrating oil to loosen it. If it's still stuck, you may need to use a wrench or call a professional.

Can I replace the aerator with a different type?

Yes, you can replace the aerator with a different type, as long as it matches the thread size and type of your faucet. This can help improve water flow or change the spray pattern.