Faucet Aerator

 

Cost - $20

Savings –  $36/year[1][2][3]

Installation time –  5 minutes

Materials/Tools Needed – Aerators for kitchen, bath and utility sinks

Maintenance  - None

 

         The aerator -- the screw-on tip of the faucet -- ultimately determines the maximum flow rate of a faucet. Typically, new kitchen faucets come equipped with aerators that restrict flow rates to 2.2 gallons per minute (gpm), while new bathroom faucets have ones that restrict flow rates to 1.5 to 0.5 gpm.

         Aerators are inexpensive to replace and they can be one of the most cost-effective water conservation measures. For maximum water efficiency, purchase aerators that have flow rates of no more than 1.0 gpm. Some aerators even come with shut-off valves that allow you to stop the flow of water without affecting the temperature. When replacing an aerator, bring the one you're replacing to the store with you to ensure a proper fit.

         If the old aerator is not clearly marked, you can test it by turning the faucet on full, filling a measuring cup for 15 seconds and multiplying the volume by 4 to obtain gallons per minute.

 

Instructions

 

1.    If old aerator is falling apart or its water restriction is over 1.0 gpm flow rate, remove by turning counterclockwise.

2.    Take to hardware store to get correct size replacement.

3.   Install new aerator turning clockwise.