How to Tell Kitchen Faucet Aerator Size

How to Tell Kitchen Faucet Aerator Size

If you're looking to replace the aerator on your faucet, you'll need to know how to tell what size it is. There are three basic sizes, each of which corresponds to an American coin. You can measure your faucet opening to determine which size you need. For instance, a quarter-sized faucet should use a regular-sized aerator, while a nickel-sized faucet will use a junior-sized aerator.

Measure the aerator

First, you should understand that there are two types of aerators: male and female. The male type has threading on the outside while the female version has threading on the inside. Make sure you know what size you need for your faucet before you go shopping. You can also measure the aerator using a penny - the flat sides of the penny should be visible when placed on the top of the aerator.

Use masking tape

If your aerator is not removable, you can remove it by unscrewing it with a pair of pliers. Make sure you use a pair of pliers with rubber jaws, as your aerator may scratch your faucet spout. Alternatively, you can use masking tape to protect your white tap spout before unscrewing it.

Another method to determine the aerator size is to check a dime or nickel. A dime is smaller than a nickel and will fit inside a junior-sized aerator, while a nickel has a diameter of.835 inches, which will fit inside a 15/16-sized aerator.

Use vinegar

Once you have figured out the size of your faucet aerator, you can clean it and maintain it as needed. If it is dirty, it can cause decreased water pressure, which is a sign that it needs cleaning. Minerals and other debris may have built up on the aerator's thin mesh, blocking the water stream. To clean the aerator, brush the faucet nozzle, or soak it in a mixture of 50 percent water and vinegar. Repeat this procedure every quarter to avoid mineral buildup and mildew.

An aerator is an important part of a faucet. It helps break up water flow into multiple streams and add air in between. This makes the water flow more slowly and reduces the splashing. It also prevents water from spitting, which wastes water and ruins your washing experience. The size of the faucet aerator you need depends on the model of your faucet and its size.

It's easy to tell what size a faucet aerator you need by laying a nickel, dime, or quarter next to it. The smaller one will be the junior-size, while the larger one is a full-size one. A quarter-size aerator will fit a half-dollar faucet, while a nickel is for a penny.

Need to fill up a large pot

Aerators come in a variety of sizes and styles. The most common size is one that limits water flow to 2.2 gallons per minute, and is ideal for hand-washing. However, if you need to fill up a large pot, you will need to select a higher-volume aerator.