What is Aerated Water: Is It Worth it or Not?

Ever heard of aerated water systems? They’re popping up in bathrooms across the UK, and for good reason. Whether you’re knee-deep in a renovation or just curious about cutting water bills, let’s unpack what these fixtures do—and whether they’re worth the buzz.

What’s Aerated Water Exactly?

Picture your tap water, but with tiny air bubbles mixed in. That’s aerated water in a nutshell. Special taps or showerheads blend air into the stream, creating a softer, foamy flow that feels powerful but uses way less water. 

Think of it like swapping a firehose for a fizzy drink—gentler, but still gets the job done. Those little nozzles on your tap or showerhead suck in air as water flows through, bulking up the stream with bubbles. Less water but same satisfaction.

For a better perspective:

• Old-school taps gush out 12–15 litres per minute.

• Aerated taps trim that to 5–8 litres—without you noticing a difference.

• Showerheads? They can halve water use while keeping that “rainfall” vibe.

Aerated vs. Regular Flow: Why It Matters

You’ve probably seen two types of water flow:

1. Aerated: Bubbly, smooth, and splash-free (great for bathrooms).

2. Non-aerated: A solid jet, like what you’d see in a pub sink (fast but wasteful).

For most homes, aerated water holds the key. Unless you’re running a hospital (where laminar flow rules for hygiene), aerated fixtures are the smarter pick.

Why Choose Aerated Systems?

Here are reasons for choosing an aerated water system.

Save Money 

The average UK home guzzles 330 litres of water daily, and showers/taps gulp down 60% of that. Aerated fixtures can slash that by 30–50%. For a family of four? That’s £100–£200 a year back in your pocket. And if you’ve got a combi boiler, using less hot water means lower energy bills too. 

Eco-Friendly Perks

With droughts making headlines and water meters becoming the norm, aerated systems are a no-brainer. They’ll help you fulfil the Part G Building Regulations (which cap tap flow at 8L/min) and boost your home’s green credentials.

No Limescale

If you are living in a hard water area, aerated water’s softer flow will have fewer mineral deposits clogging up your pipes and appliances. 

Hassle-free Installation

Most aerated taps or showers screw straight onto existing plumbing. Brands like Bristan or Grohe make kits even DIY enthusiasts can handle. Such fixtures are a contractors’ first pick too because they’re quick to retrofit—no replumbing necessary.

Possible Downsides of Aerated Water Fixtures

Costs More Upfront

Aerated fixtures aren't cheap. A decent tap runs £60–£100, versus £30 for a basic model. But here’s the thing: they pay for themselves in 2–3 years through water savings. 

They Can Get Clogged

The tiny airholes that suck the air into the faucet are limescale magnets in hard water areas. To keep them functioning normally, you might have to soak in vinegar every month to keep the limescale off. However, cheaper models might rust out sooner. It’s better to go with trusted bathroom fixture brands—it’s worth the extra quid.

Low Pressure

If you’re dealing with low water pressure? Aerated systems might not suit you. If your shower already feels like a timid garden hose, these could make it worse. Make sure to check your pressure first (or get a pro to do it).

Noisy Taps

Cheap poorly designed aerators can create a hissing sound as air mixes with water. Spend a bit more to keep your bathroom’s atmosphere more calm and serene.

Aerators vs. Flow Restrictors: Which Is Better?

Some homeowners confuse aerators with flow restrictors, but they work differently:

• Aerators mix air into water, maintaining pressure while reducing volume.

• Flow restrictors simply limit water volume, often resulting in a weaker stream.

Is Aerated Water Worth It?

Do it if: You’re renovating or want long-term savings. Start with showerheads—they save the most.

Skip it if: Your water pressure’s already low or you’re on a tight budget.

Tips for Maximising Aerated Water Systems

1. Start with showers: They use the most water, so aerated showerheads deliver the fastest ROI.

2. Clean aerators regularly: A 10-minute vinegar soak keeps them clog-free. So make sure to soak them every 3 months for longer lasting.

3. Choose WRAS-approved products: Ensures compliance with UK water regulations.

4. Combine with other eco-features: Pair aerated fixtures with low-flush toilets for a full water-efficient bathroom.

Ending Thoughts

Aerated water systems can offer various advantages ranging from saving money to helping the environment and potentially dealing with limescale and noise. However, if you are on a tight budget or have low water pressure, an aerated water tap might not be suitable for your bathroom.

In case you are thinking about converting your bathroom into a sustainable and environment-friendly space, aerated faucets can offer eco-friendly options. You can start with a c, as it’s the biggest water guzzler in most bathrooms. Don’t forget to clean it regularly for optimum performance.  I suggest you weigh the advantages and disadvantages and consider your budget and water pressure when choosing the solution that works best for you.

Frequently Asked Questions