Why Your Round Faucet Aerator Won't Budge and How to Fix It

There are many faucet designs available on the market, but round faucets tend to be quite popular. However, over time, round faucets may experience clogged aerators due to impurities in the water, making it difficult to unscrew them. If the aerator is stuck, what should you do? How can you remove it? Today, I will explain how to handle a stuck aerator.

1. What to do if a round faucet aerator won’t unscrew

First, prepare a dry towel and wipe off all the water from the faucet. Then, wrap a thin towel around the aerator area and use a wrench to grip the aerator. Next, turn the aerator counterclockwise with the wrench. Once the aerator begins to loosen, remove the wrench and continue to turn it by hand until it comes off.

2. Why is the water flow from a round faucet slow?

1. The water pressure from the municipal supply may be low. To remedy this, check whether your neighbors also experience low water pressure. If their water pressure is normal, consider calling your local water company to schedule a technician to adjust the water pressure.

2. The aerator may be clogged with sand or other debris. In many cities, the tap water can contain a significant amount of impurities, which can accumulate in the aerator over time. Simply remove the aerator and clean it thoroughly.

3. What to do if the round faucet aerator slips while trying to unscrew it

You can wrap a damp towel around the faucet aerator and use needle-nose pliers to grip it. Be sure to turn it counterclockwise, but do not apply too much force, as this can cause the aerator to become deformed. A deformed aerator cannot be reused, as it will not fit back onto the faucet.

4. What material should you choose for a faucet aerator?

From a usability perspective, stainless steel is the best option, as true stainless steel is unlikely to rust, offering a longer lifespan. Generally, if you maintain the aerator by cleaning it regularly, it can last at least 4 to 5 years without any issues.