Product Overview
The Neoperl Tom Thumb Male Clear Faucet Aerator (Model 11 4960 5) is a pressure-compensating aerator designed for kitchen and bathroom faucets. It provides a full, clear laminar stream with a flow rate of 2.2 Gallons Per Minute (GPM). Constructed from durable brass with a polished chrome finish, this aerator includes an anti-clogging dome screen filter and a washer, ensuring efficient and consistent water flow. It meets or exceeds ASME standards for quality and performance.
Image: The Neoperl Tom Thumb Male Clear Faucet Aerator, showing its compact design and clear stream insert.
Key Features
- Flow Rate: 2.2 GPM (Gallons Per Minute) for a full flow stream.
- Pressure Compensating: Ensures a constant flow rate regardless of water pressure fluctuations.
- Laminar Clear Stream: Provides a non-aerated, crystal-clear water flow.
- Components: Includes chrome housing, insert with anti-clogging dome screen filter, and washer.
- Size: Male Tom Thumb M18 x 1 thread size.
- Material: Housing constructed of solid brass with a polished chrome finish.
- Installation: Easy to install as a replacement part for existing faucet aerators.
- Compliance: Meets Low Lead Requirements and ASME standards.
Important Note: This product is not for use in California or other areas that require a lower flow rate than 2.2 GPM.
Setup and Installation
Before beginning installation, ensure you have the correct aerator size for your faucet. The Neoperl Tom Thumb aerator is a Male M18x1 size.
Image: Aerator Size Comparison Chart, highlighting the 'Tom Thumb' size for identification.
- Turn Off Water Supply: Locate the water supply valves under your sink and turn them off to prevent water flow during installation.
- Remove Existing Aerator: Unscrew the old aerator from the faucet spout. This may require an aerator wrench or pliers if it is tightly secured. Wrap the aerator with a cloth if using pliers to avoid scratching.
- Clean Faucet Spout: Inspect the inside of the faucet spout for any debris, mineral deposits, or old washer remnants. Clean thoroughly to ensure a proper seal for the new aerator.
- Insert New Washer: Place the provided washer into the new Neoperl aerator housing. Ensure it sits flat and correctly.
- Install New Aerator: Screw the new Neoperl Tom Thumb aerator (with the insert and washer inside) into the faucet spout. Turn clockwise by hand until it is finger-tight.
- Tighten Securely: Use an aerator wrench or pliers (again, with a cloth to protect the finish) to gently tighten the aerator an additional quarter turn. Do not overtighten, as this can damage the aerator or faucet threads.
- Restore Water Supply: Slowly turn the water supply valves back on.
- Check for Leaks: Turn on the faucet and check for any leaks around the aerator connection. If leaks occur, turn off the water, tighten slightly, and recheck.
Image: Depicts the aerator insert, housing, and an example of an installed aerator in a faucet spout.
Operation
Once installed, the Neoperl Tom Thumb Male Clear Faucet Aerator operates automatically when the faucet is turned on. It delivers a consistent 2.2 GPM laminar stream, which is a non-splashing, crystal-clear flow of water. The pressure-compensating feature ensures that this flow rate remains stable even if your household water pressure fluctuates.
Maintenance
To maintain optimal performance and extend the life of your Neoperl aerator, periodic cleaning is recommended, especially in areas with hard water.
- Regular Cleaning: If you notice reduced water flow or an irregular stream, the aerator may be clogged with mineral deposits or debris.
- Removal: Turn off the water supply. Unscrew the aerator from the faucet spout.
- Disassembly: Carefully separate the housing, insert, and washer.
- Cleaning: Rinse all components under running water. For stubborn mineral deposits, soak the insert and housing in a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water for 30 minutes to an hour. Use a small brush (like an old toothbrush) to gently scrub away any remaining debris.
- Reassembly: Reassemble the components, ensuring the washer is correctly seated.
- Reinstallation: Screw the aerator back onto the faucet spout, tighten gently, and check for leaks as described in the installation steps.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Reduced water flow | Aerator clogged with debris or mineral deposits. | Remove and clean the aerator as described in the Maintenance section. |
| Irregular or spraying stream | Aerator screen partially clogged or damaged. | Clean the aerator. If the screen is damaged, replace the aerator. |
| Water leaking around the aerator connection | Aerator not tightened sufficiently, or washer is improperly seated or damaged. | Turn off water, remove aerator, check washer for proper seating or damage. Replace washer if necessary. Reinstall and tighten securely. |
Specifications
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Neoperl |
| Model Number | 11 4960 5 |
| Flow Rate | 2.2 Gallons Per Minute (GPM) |
| Thread Size | Male M18x1 (Tom Thumb Size) |
| Stream Type | Laminar Clear Stream |
| Material | Brass (Housing) |
| Finish Type | Polished Chrome |
| Specification Met | ANSI 61, CSA B125.1 |
| Included Components | Aerator, Housing, Insert, Washer |
Warranty and Support
For specific warranty information or technical support regarding your Neoperl Faucet Aerator, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or contact Neoperl customer service directly. Contact details can typically be found on the manufacturer's official website.
