The big benefits of cleaning and updating faucet aerators

​Small faucet devices if cleaned regularly help save water, improve water service and reduce the risk of lead exposure.

You may not have known, but at the end of your faucet is a small screen — also known as an aerator — that plays a big part in your home’s water. Aerators screw into kitchen and bathroom faucets. Holes in the screens add air to the water as it streams out of the faucet. 

And in a classic case of small things having a big impact, these aerator screens have multiple purposes, including: 

• Reducing the amount of water that comes out of the faucet.
• Shaping the stream of water.
• Maintaining or improving the water pressure. 
• Preventing water from splashing when it hits your hands, the sink, a glass or anything else. 
• Catching debris and lead particles that may have gotten into the water.

With so many roles to play, it’s important to know why these small aerators need to be cleaned every six months and especially after construction work affecting water service. Another important reason to understand aerators is because they can also help save water which can save money on your water bill. 

Reducing the risk of lead exposure
If you have a lead service line or indoor plumbing that contain lead, you are likely in Denver Water’s Lead Reduction Program and it’s important to clean your aerators every six months. Particles of lead can flake off lead pipes and plumbing and get into your water. Aerators can catch the lead particles, so it’s important to clean them to reduce the risk in your drinking water.