An aerator, also known as a bubbler, mixing nozzle or stream straightener, is a small component that is attached to the end of a faucet. Its main task is to regulate the water stream, for example by mixing in air. This ensures that the stream is soft and even and reduces splashing.
Aerator, bubbler, mixing nozzle – what now?
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Today we want to dedicate ourselves to an inconspicuous but incredibly important component that can be found in every household – the aerator. What exactly is an aerator, what functions does it perform and why is it so important? And why does it have so many different names?
3 min
Also popularly known as...
The term "perlator" is sometimes incorrectly used when referring to the aerator. Correct: PERLATOR is a registered trademark of Neoperl for a faucet aerator. Therefore, every PERLATOR is a faucet aerator, but not every faucet aerator is a PERLATOR.
Aerators are known by many other names. Admittedly, this can sometimes lead to confusion. We have come across these names before:
- Bubbler
- Conservator
- Mixing nozzle
- Restrictor
- Regulator
- Stream straightener
- Tap end
- Or simply "the Neoperl"
How exactly does this little thing work?
A faucet aerator is a small but effective component that performs a variety of functions - from › creating different stream patterns to saving water. Often, attention is only paid to a faucet aerator when something stops working. For example, if the water jet splashes in all directions, › hits too close to the edge of the sink or looks really unappetizing and › heavily calcified.
But now to how it works: With many jet regulators, the amount of water is regulated via an O-ring, which is deformed by the water pressure and thus reduces or enlarges the openings for the water to pass through. This keeps the flow rate constant.
Curious? In the video below we show how Neoperl's water-saving technology works and › here you can see how easy it is to replace aerators in your home.
What else can faucet aerators do?
Aerators can help reduce water consumption at the faucet. Using less hot water can also lower the energy required to heat the water. Depending on usage as well as local water, wastewater, and energy rates, this can affect your monthly bills.
However, not every aerator is designed to reduce flow. For example, a water-saving aerator often isn’t practical for a bathtub, since the tub is usually meant to be filled as quickly as possible. That’s why it’s important to choose the right aerator for each specific application and pay attention to the relevant features.
New faucets are often already equipped with flow-limiting technologies. › You can easily measure whether your faucet already has a reduced flow rate. You can then › use our calculator to get an idea of potential savings.
For the sink, we recommend a flow rate of about 4 liters per minute; in the kitchen, about 6 liters; and in the shower, about 8 liters per minute. Remember: Like other components that come into regular contact with water, aerators should also be cleaned and—depending on their condition and usage—replaced as needed.
Discover the benefits of NEOPERL aerators and learn about suitable solutions for your kitchen and bathroom. The aerators are available at many home improvement stores, plumbing supply stores, and › in our online shop (only in Germany and Austria).