Aerators for mixers: types, principle of operation, how to choose and install

Saving water for many of us today is not just a fashion statement, but rather a necessity.And the aerator for the mixer helps to make the task easier - a functional attachment that helps disperse and maintain the intensity of the stream.

Let’s take a closer look at what principle the device operates and what nuances to consider when choosing and installing it.

Design and principle of operation of the aerator

The main purpose of the device is water saving. An ordinary water tap is not always able to cope with the pressure of the stream, the flow rate of which can reach 15 liters per minute.

It takes time to adjust it manually, and with it flows of water run away, for which you have to pay considerable sums.

The principle of operation of the faucet aerator is that the water passing through the nozzle is mixed with oxygen, due to which it forms a soft foamy stream at the outlet. At the same time, the flow intensity remains unchanged, and water consumption is reduced by almost half. In addition, the natural barrier helps trap small particles of debris.

The design of the nozzle, which looks like a hard filter, consists of three main elements:

• the basis – a cylindrical module in the shape of a metal ring;
• pad – rubber or silicone ring for a tight connection;
• mesh filters – several layers of simple dividers with rectangular cellular openings or complex “tunnel” systems.

The material for making the body of the nozzle of budget models can be plastic or metal. Plastic elements are famous for their high resistance to temperature changes. They are inexpensive, but will last a short time.

The mesh nozzles built inside help fill the water jets with tiny air droplets and retain small insoluble particles found in tap water

Metal cases are known for their aesthetic appearance, but they are more vulnerable to mechanical damage. In addition, they are susceptible to corrosion, often oxidize and stick to the faucets, making it difficult to dismantle them for replacement or periodic cleaning.

In more expensive models made of non-ferrous metals, ease of use and long service life are worthy compensation for the high cost.

An economical device allows you to reduce the volume of water passing through the mixer by half, while its pressure even increases due to the specific design of the filters

Mesh filters can be made of ceramics, polymer composition or non-ferrous metal.

The first two filters of a multilayer design are responsible for retaining large fragments and giving direction to the stream, and the subsequent ones provide excess air in the water flow.

Devices for reducing water consumption, belonging to the high-price segment, are made of ceramics and non-ferrous metals such as brass or bronze

There are also articles on our website where we talked in detail about how to choose a mixer depending on the purpose, we recommend reading:

1. Bathroom mixer with shower.
2. Kitchen faucet.
3. Bathroom faucet.
4. Bidet mixer.

Advantages and disadvantages of the nozzle

In addition to the main advantage of the device - reducing water consumption, and as a result - saving money on its payment, it also has a lot of “advantages”.

The main ones are:

• saturates water with oxygen and promotes the weathering of chlorine;
• built-in filter system ensures water filtration;
• helps reduce the noise level of water flow by mixing it with air;
• It has a simple design that can be installed by anyone with only basic repair skills.

The presence of membranes in the nozzle allows for purification of water from chlorine. Thanks to this, it can be used for cooking without pre-settling.

As many housewives note, the aerator is effective for thoroughly rinsing detergents from kitchen utensils or dishes, that is, it allows you to avoid wasting large volumes of water on this.

The universal nozzle is compatible with most modifications of modern faucets for kitchen sinks and washbasins

The aerator has only two disadvantages. So, when using it, the process of collecting water into the container takes a little longer. If the quality of water is low, and contains mechanical impurities and fine suspended matter, there is a high risk of rapid clogging of the nozzle.

In this case, there is a need for frequent cleaning or even replacement of the device.

Criteria for choosing wisely

Nozzle designs from different manufacturers may vary slightly. The simplest budget models have a filter in the form of a plastic insert; more modernized devices are equipped with a multi-stage rotating design.

Main parameters of aerators

On sale there are stationary models with an unregulated flow and those in which it is convenient to change the flow intensity using a rotating or pressing mechanism.

In adjustable models, the first mode, which forms a single stream, is convenient to use when filling containers, and the second, in the form of a shower, is for taking water procedures.

The device provides tap water supply in two modes convenient for different purposes. Simple adjustment allows you to increase the jet pressure or increase the flow distribution area

Nozzles that allow you to change the angle of the water supply are also widely popular. They help make the process of washing dishes or taking water procedures as comfortable as possible.

If you want to save water consumption by more than twice, you should choose vacuum models. They are equipped with a valve, the main purpose of which is to create strong compression of water for the further release of a powerful jet. The output from such nozzles is a stream with a water flow rate of only 1.1 l/min.

When choosing an aerator, key attention is paid to three parameters:

1. Device thread size. It must match the diameter of the faucet spout on which the nozzle is mounted.
2. Fixation method. There are devices on sale with both internal thread D 22 mm and external thread 24 mm.
3. Availability of additional functions, for example, temperature sensors and LEDs.

If the size of the selected nozzle does not match the diameter of the faucet, the easiest way to solve the problem is by installing an adapter, which can always be purchased at the plumbing department. The main thing is to choose a device made of the same material as the aerator.

If the faucet spout has an external thread, then it is necessary to purchase a nozzle with an internal thread for it.

When choosing products, experts advise giving preference to models supplemented with silicone coating. Lime does not settle on such nozzles. You can clean the tip with just one touch of your finger.

List of additional options

For those who appreciate aesthetics, manufacturers offer faucet aerators with bright informative lighting, which, depending on the water temperature, can color the spray jet in different colors.

The backlight turns on automatically when the tap is opened; depending on the water temperature, it colors the stream green, blue or red.

A microturbine equipped with an electric generator and a temperature sensor is built into the body of such nozzles. These devices operate by rotating autonomous miniature turbines with their own generator, and therefore do not require the presence of additional power sources.

Such a multi-colored stream can transform the intimate atmosphere of the bathroom and add a little romantic touch to a family dinner in the kitchen.

A diode system built into the body gives the jet a certain shade. The operating temperature of the device is limited to +60 °C.

Illuminated aerators are often chosen when arranging bathrooms in homes where there are small children, since the skin of babies in the first months of life is very sensitive to temperature fluctuations.

Nozzles in the form of animal figures can turn an ordinary water procedure into exciting fun.

Color shades help mothers and their little fidgets during water procedures to determine the most comfortable temperature without a thermometer, thereby ensuring safe bathing.

A striking example of the fact that an ordinary jet can be turned into a mesmerizing dynamic picture is the invention of design student Simin Kviu.

A bizarre twisted spiral is formed under the influence of microturbines built into the device

Two microturbines are built into the body of this aerator, which split the flow of water passing through them into numerous swirling jets. The finest jets, like braids, intertwining with each other, form a beautiful water lattice at the exit.

Review of leading manufacturers

The key to reliable operation of the device and a long service life are the high quality characteristics of the aerator.Therefore, when choosing a nozzle, you should focus on trusted manufacturers who guarantee the quality of the products they create.

Among the leading manufacturers that have proven themselves in the market, it is worth highlighting:

• "Grohe" is a German company that produces sanitary fittings, as well as faucets and accessories, which are distinguished by their original design and high performance parameters.
• "Oras" - another leader, whose production facilities are located in Finland, Norway and Poland. The use of innovative approaches allows the company to create easy-to-use automatic faucets and plumbing accessories.
• Timo – the Finnish manufacturer uses only modern technologies when creating sanitary ware, creating nozzles from high-quality materials of different shapes and colors. It provides a 5-year warranty on its products.
• "Jacob Delafon" - a French company whose motto is “to give style and comfort”, specializes in the production of faucets and sanitary porcelain, and is famous for creating exquisite collections of luxury equipment.

The cost of aerators of the brands listed above, depending on the design features, varies between $2-10.

The price of the device depends on the materials used in its manufacture, the percentage of water saved and the availability of additional functions

Standard attachments will cost between $2-5, models with rotating and clamping mechanisms - up to $5-7. Modified aerators equipped with LEDs and temperature sensors will cost about $3.5-10.

Among the lesser-known brands, it is also worth highlighting “Bossini” (Italy), “Tescoma” (Czech Republic), “Ango” (China).The products of these companies, although they cost a little less, are practically not inferior in quality to the “promoted” brands.

Nozzle installation sequence

There are no particular difficulties in attaching the nozzle to the tap. The device is screwed in manually without the use of tools. Installation of the aerator begins with the installation of the sealing gasket, which comes with the device.

If a threaded adapter is used during installation, ensure that gaskets are present at both connection points

To tighten the threaded connection, use pliers. The main thing when working with a tool is not to damage the outer surface of the plumbing equipment.

The easiest way to prevent this is to first insulate the tool with construction tape, or simply wrap the surface with a piece of fabric.

When tightening the threads, it is important not to overdo it so as not to damage the body of the aerator or water tap.

Installation of the device on the shower is carried out in a similar way and in the same sequence.

Device maintenance and repair

In order for the attachment to perform its intended task, it must be kept clean. To do this, the filter meshes of the device will have to be cleaned periodically. The fact that it is time to clean the nozzle will be indicated by a decrease in water pressure or the elimination of the hissing of the exiting stream.

Procedure for dismantling the device:

1. Using pliers or a mechanic's wrench, unscrew the threaded connection of the nozzle. For gripping by the tool, two diametrically located notches are provided on the body.
2. The gasket is removed from the dismantled nozzle and the degree of wear is checked. To remove the filter cylinder, you must carefully press the mesh on the side where the water stream comes out.If the integrity of the O-ring is damaged, or the rubber has lost its elasticity, the gasket will have to be replaced with a new one.
3. Remove all mesh filters from the nozzle and clean them mechanically, using a toothbrush, awl or needle, and also by rinsing under running water. To disconnect the strainer, you need to pry it with the blade of a screwdriver through the slot in the side of the housing. The easiest way to disconnect the spherical grid is to pry it with a knitting needle or the sharp tip of a knife.
4. After cleaning is completed, the structure is assembled in the reverse order, not forgetting to place the sealing gaskets. The aerator body is twisted counterclockwise without applying excessive force.
5. To check the correct installation, open the water tap. If a leak is detected, tighten the aerator a little more with pliers.

When assembling a cleaned device, it is important to ensure that all parts fit tightly together. In the future, to clean the surface of the aerator, it is enough to wipe it with a damp cloth from time to time and disassemble and wash the elements under running water every six months.

To extend the “life” of the device, it is advisable to repeat filter cleaning every 6-9 months

If salt and lime deposits on the mesh filter cannot be removed mechanically, use a chemical method. A vinegar solution or household “chemicals” intended for the care of plumbing equipment do an excellent job of removing dirt and lime deposits.

To achieve the desired effect, the filters are placed for 30-45 minutes in a container with a solution and left until the layers “corrode” or peel off.

After this, the meshes are thoroughly washed with clean water and laid layer by layer in the module, not forgetting to maintain a rotation angle of 45° relative to the direction of the edges of the cells of the previous layer.

The acidic environment easily deals with any mineral deposits on the device’s mesh filters

To extend the life of the device, try to use it not at maximum flow power. This will slow down the wear process of the elements and prevent breakdowns.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

Video guide for installing the nozzle:

There is nothing complicated about installing an aerator on a faucet and using it in everyday life. The main thing is to adhere to the installation technology and regularly maintain the device.

With good plumbing and quality care, the device will last much longer.

Still can't decide which aerator to choose? Perhaps you have questions about the topic of the article and want to get an answer from a specialist? Please leave your comments in the block below this article.