Some aerators need to be disassembled into pieces and cleaned individually. Faucet aerators in old homes may also filter lead into your tap water.

If you don’t feel comfortable doing this on your own, call a plumber for help.

If you want to join two pipes, apply the pipe joint compound on the threads of the pipe. [8] X Research source It is better to use a plumbing compound that contains Teflon. [9] X Research source When Teflon gets wet, it expands and seals the leaks. [10] X Research source

To go the extra mile, disinfect your containers with a diluted bleach mixture.

If you aren’t comfortable doing this, feel free to call a water professional to inspect your system.