It contains several holes that divide the water stream into smaller streams, allowing more air to enter and assisting in the perception of the needed water pressure. The flow restrictor keeps the water from splashing out and gives it a form as it emerges from the faucet sprout. It aids in the creation of a stream that is straight and uniformly pressurized.
However, owing to minerals or other residue or debris in the water or pipes, this filter becomes clogged, lowering the water pressure. To solve the question “How To Remove Flow Restrictor From Kitchen Faucet?” , we must first remove the flow restrictor from the kitchen faucet, clean it, and then replace it.
How do I remove the kitchen faucet flow restrictor?
The solution is simple: you don’t need any special plumbing equipment to accomplish this. Simply remove the aerator by turning it counterclockwise. After that, just press in the middle with your thumb to release the flow restrictor. Remove the washer and press a little harder; the screen will come out as well. It should be cleaned and reinstalled (Refer to the steps below). That is all there is to it.
If it’s still unclear, you can follow the step-by-step procedure I’ve outlined below with pictures.
Since 1994, manufacturers have been required by federal and state law to install a flow restrictor on the faucet in order to conserve water. According to Home Water Works, the normal or standard water flow for a kitchen faucet is 2.2 gallons per minute (GPM) without compromising performance.
That’s why manufacturers include an aerator to save water while maintaining the proper flow.
What will you require?
- Jar Lid: Towel or Silicone (basically to hold the aerator).
- Adjustable Wrench or Pliers (required only if you can’t open with your fingers).
- Screwdriver.
All of the items listed here are optional. It may be necessary if your aerator has become stuck and will not open with your fingers.
First step: The aerator must be removed
To begin, try turning the aerator counterclockwise with your bare hand. In the vast majority of cases, it is eliminated. If it’s slick or you can’t apply pressure, you may try removing it with a silicone jar lid or a cloth.
If both situations fail, you’ll need to remove the aerator with an adjustable wrench or pliers. But be careful not to use too much pressure, since this might harm or even shatter your faucet.
So, to keep the faucet safe, wrap the aerator in whatever towel, fabric, or plastic tubing you have on hand, and then remove it with the wrench or plier. Apply mild pressure to complete the task.
Second step: The flow restrictor must be removed
You can see dirt particles above the screen after removing the aerator. Remove the washer first, then clean the aerator under running water. Before cleaning, cover the sink with a towel or cloth to cover the holes and prevent the loss of any screws or tiny things.
Push lightly in the center of the aerator with your thumb to force the flow restrictor to come out easily.
You’ll note that there are two screens, one metallic and the other some type of plastic net, below and above the restrictor. But keep in mind where it was placed since you’ll have to put everything back in the same sequence.
Clean the netting, the aerator, and the faucet with a toothbrush. If the pieces have too much filth or rust, soak them in a vinegar solution for two hours. This will make cleaning a lot easier.
You must open the flow restrictor if you are not pleased with the cleaning and want to ensure there is no dirt remaining within.
Take a screwdriver and slowly pry the nets away from the corners to unlock the flow restrictor. However, make sure you don’t break it and remember the sequence, since it’s critical to return everything in the same order.
After opening it, clean it well before reattaching the nets. This method is not recommended since the pieces are extremely sensitive and may break. When I initially tried this, I broke it and had to replace it with a new one. But, over time, I learned via trial and error, and now I don’t break it.
Last step: To the faucet connection
It’s time to reassemble the aerator, flow restrictor, and all of its components after cleaning them. Remove the towel or cloth from the sink before connecting it, and run both the cold and hot water faucets.
Run the cold water tap for 15-20 seconds before switching to the hot water tap for another 15-20 seconds. The debris or dirt in the pipes will be removed as a result of this. If you observe dirt or brown water coming out of the faucet, run the water for a longer period of time until it clears up.
After all of this labor, you may now assemble the pieces in the proper order, connect the aerator to the faucet, and turn on the water. The flow restrictor will function properly, and you will have the appropriate water pressure. That’s all there is to it!!!\
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Some frequently asked questions
1. How do I remove the flow restrictor from a delta kitchen faucet?
The majority of Delta faucets come with a hidden aerator. To remove the flow restrictor from the delta kitchen faucet, start by trying to open it with your nail. Then take off the restrictor, clean it, and replace it.
If it won’t come off with your fingernail, you’ll need to acquire a special tool, which you can find on Amazon. Take a look at it here.
2. How difficult is it to remove?
Without a doubt, no. It’s certainly one of the most convenient and comfortable plumbing jobs you can accomplish.
3. Is it easy for the flow restrictor to break?
It depends on how much pressure you apply, as well as the quality of the product. If it’s made of plastic, be soft and cautious. If it’s made of metal, apply little pressure as well. I’ve done it so many times that if you’re cautious, it won’t break.
Conclusion
Finally, you complete your task. You would assume that removing a water flow restrictor will be difficult, but as you can see, it is likely one of the easiest, most handy, and pleasant plumbing jobs you can perform yourself.
This DIY might help you save money and teach you a new skill at the same time. Not only can you use this method to fix your kitchen faucet, but you can also use it to fix your bathroom faucet or any other faucet in your home. Because all faucets work on the same principle and are simple to clean. Check read this post if you want to remove your faucet without using a basin wrench.
Please tell us about your experience and let us know if you run across any issues. Also, don’t forget to tell your friends and family about this post. This encourages us to come up with new ideas for future articles. See more useful article at my website blog2success.net.
