Check the Aerator First!
One of the most frustrating household problems is turning on a tap and seeing little or no water coming out. Before assuming there is a major plumbing issue, there is a simple component worth checking first – the tap aerator.
The aerator is the small mesh screen fitted at the end of most taps. Its job is to mix air with the water flow, helping control splashing and improving efficiency. Over time, however, this small component can become blocked with limescale, debris, or sediment, especially in areas with hard water. When the mesh becomes clogged, it can drastically reduce or even stop the flow of water from the tap.
Signs the Aerator Might Be Blocked
How to Fix It
Fortunately, cleaning an aerator is quick and simple:
In many cases, this restores normal water flow immediately.
When to Call a Plumber
If cleaning the aerator does not solve the issue, the problem could be inside the tap cartridge, supply valves, or pipework.
At Plumbing on Demand, we regularly help homeowners diagnose and fix issues like blocked taps, low water pressure, and faulty fixtures quickly and efficiently.
Fixing a dripping tap usually involves replacing a worn-out rubber washer (traditional taps) or a ceramic cartridge (quarter-turn taps). But if you are not confident doing this, call us at Plumbing on Demand for step-by-step advice or further assistance.
To fix a stiff or stuck tap, turn off the water supply, remove the handle, and apply a penetrant like WD-40 to loosen corrosion. Clean away debris, replace worn O-rings, and lubricate the spindle and threads with silicone grease. If the issue persists, the internal cartridge or stem might need to be replaced. But if you are not confident doing this, call us at Plumbing on Demand for step-by-step advice or further assistance.
Adam Goldman of Plumbing on Demand is highly recommended by his clients. He specialises in all kinds of plumbing, heating and gas issues.
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