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Tap Aerators - How Do They Work?

Tap Aerators – how do they work?

Save Water in the Kitchen and Bathroom

How do you save water without having to compromise on other things such as water pressure? Tap aerators may be the answer.

What is a Tap Aerator and how does a Tap Aerator Work?

Tap aerators are also known as flow regulators. The aerator is a small attachment that either fits onto the end of the tap or can be inserted inside of the existing spout. These water saving devices will control the amount of water that flows through the tap without affecting the water pressure as they mix the water with air. While oil and water don't mix, air and water certainly can which will save water and money. The aerator acts as a sieve, separating a single flow of water into many tiny streams which introduces the air in to the water flow. Also as there is less space for the water to flow through, the water flow is reduced, resulting in water savings. As the water pressure is maintained, most people don't notice a difference in the amount of water coming out of an aerated faucet yet benefit from the water efficiency. However, if you are filling the sink to wash dishes, it may take twice as long, a small price to pay for the associated water savings.

Using Tap Aerators

Tap aerators are of most use to those with older taps in their home which run on average around 15 litres of water per minute. Adding an aerator to an older tap can reduce this to as little as 6 litres of water per minute. You can install aerators on 95% of taps however the biggest water saving benefit is achieved in the bathroom or kitchen sinks where you are often turning the taps on and off to wash your hands and for other uses. Tap aerators can save as much as up to half your water usage through this way. When you are using aerated water, you are unlikely to notice the difference except for saving water resulting in lower bills. Estimates are that aerators can save you up to 1,274 litres of water a month and when you save water, you will use less gas or oil to heat it and save money on these bills also.

How to install your aerator

Best of all, you can install the aerators yourself. They are cheap and easy to fix. If you need to replace an aerator, just unscrew the old one and put the new one in. If you don't have one already, check inside the tap to see what kind you will need; If the threads are on the inside, you need a male aerator, and if they're on the outside you need a female aerator. Our Range of Tap Aerators fits both female and male housings. Choose between a Swivel Tap Aerator, Miracle Tap Spray - black/chrome or Miracle Tap Spray - white/chrome more suitable for kitchen taps or the Tap Aerator – Twin Pack that replaces less water efficient inserts in bathroom taps.