Toilets, Sinks, Showers, Tubs and Disposals - Replacing Kitchen Faucet Aerator

Seems like it would be a simple job...but of course it isn't!

Went to my local hardware store and picked up a basic screw on aerator for my kitchen sink. The "old" one (at least circa 1995) was shot.

Got the old one off the faucet, checked to make sure there was no loose sediment or anything around the threads or stuck in the faucet, dried it off and following directions, screwed on the replacement. Turned on the faucet to check the seal and there is a fine mist shooting out the back of the aerator where it meets the faucet.

Ok, so I back it off, and try again. Same thing, so I try tightening it a bit more with my pliers and no go, same situation.

Any suggestions? I did go back to the store and talked with one of the guys and he showed me a different aerator - but I have the same problem. Would wrapping the threads on the faucet with Teflon tape help?

The teflon tape may help, but check to be sure your have the rubber washer in the proper position on top of the stack so it will seal once you install it. Be sure not to cross thread it, as it is very easy to do.

Be sure not to cross thread it,

Not sure what this means. Do you mean make sure the rubber washer is below the threads?

It means to make sure the aerator screws onto the faucet properly.Sometimes fine threads like those on an aerator can overlap or strip causing the aerator to screw on at an angle etc. and of course this damages the threads on both the aerator and the faucet.If the aerator has been difficult to thread on,has had to be forced or looks "odd" like at an angle then you may have crossed the threads.

Sometimes aerators come with two gaskets especially the universal inside/outside threaded ones.Make sure you are using the right gasket.If two came with it try them both.

Thank you for the clarification.

Actually, the first aerator that I purchased was a universal with threads on the outside and inside and two gaskets. I had no problem screwing it on, just that annoying leak in the back. That is why I went back to the store and the guy found the correct one that just had the inside threads with the thinner washer that I needed. Same problem.

Now I am wondering if the threads on the FAUCET are the issue and if I should replace that whole mess. I actually would like a new faucet with either a gooseneck or a pull out to assist in filling stockpots...just not sure it is the right time of year to make that purchase. :-)

Sure it is. Everything is on sale between now and the end of the year!