6 Steps to Fix a Leaky Faucet for Good
Is there anything more annoying than the constant drip, drip, drip of a leaky faucet? Not only is the sound enough to drive you crazy, but a leaky faucet can also waste a surprising amount of water over time. In fact, a faucet that drips just once per second can waste over 3,000 gallons of water in a year!
The good news is that fixing a leaky faucet yourself is easier than you might think. With this step-by-step guide, you’ll have that faucet leak-free in no time.
Identify Your Faucet Type
Before you start any faucet repair, it’s important to identify what type of faucet you’re dealing with. There are three main types of faucets:
Compression Faucets
Compression faucets are most common in older homes and have two separate handles for hot and cold water. They work by using a rubber washer to compress against a valve seat, which stops the flow of water.
Cartridge Faucets
Cartridge faucets are characterized by a decorative cap on the handle. They’re commonly found in newer kitchens and bathrooms. As the name suggests, they use a cartridge to control water flow.
Ball Faucets
Ball faucets have a ball bearing mechanism and usually have a single handle that rotates. The ball has chambers and slots that regulate water temperature and flow.
Tools and Materials Needed For Faucet Repair
Before you start your faucet repair, gather these tools and materials:
- Adjustable wrench or pliers
- Flathead and Phillips head screwdrivers
- Replacement parts (washers, O-rings, cartridges, etc.)
- Plumber’s grease
- Towels or rags
Step 1: Turn Off Water Supply
The first step in any faucet repair is to turn off the water supply. Locate the shut-off valves under the sink and turn them clockwise to shut off the water to the faucet. After you’ve turned off the valves, turn on the faucet to drain any remaining water and relieve pressure in the lines.
Step 2: Disassemble the Faucet
Next, you’ll need to disassemble the faucet. Start by removing the decorative cap on the handle. This may require popping it off with a flathead screwdriver or removing a screw that holds it in place.
Once the cap is off, use your wrench to remove the packing nut. This will allow you to remove the stem or cartridge. Take note of the orientation of the cartridge or stem as you remove it, as you’ll need to put it back in the same way.
Step 3: Inspect Faucet Parts for Damage
With the faucet disassembled, inspect all the parts for damage. Check the rubber washers and O-rings for signs of wear, as these are the most common culprits of leaks. Also, inspect the valve seat for any mineral buildup or corrosion. If you see any damaged parts, replace them.
Step 4: Replace Worn Parts with New Components
If you need to replace any parts, take the old ones to your local hardware store to ensure you get an exact match. Before installing the new washers or O-rings, apply a light coating of plumber’s grease. This will help create a better seal and make future repairs easier. If the valve seats are badly corroded, you may need to replace those as well.
Step 5: Reassemble the Faucet
With all your parts cleaned or replaced, it’s time to reassemble the faucet. Put everything back in the same order and orientation as when you took it apart. Hand tighten the packing nut, then give it an extra quarter turn with your wrench. Be careful not to overtighten, as this can damage the faucet. Reattach the handle and decorative cap.
Step 6: Turn Water Back On & Check for Leaks
Once your faucet is reassembled, it’s time to turn the water back on. Turn the shut-off valves counterclockwise to allow water to flow to the faucet again. Turn on the faucet and let it run for a minute, then check under the sink and around the faucet for any new leaks. If you do see leaks, you’ll need to disassemble the faucet again and double check that all parts are properly seated and undamaged.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
While most leaky faucets can be fixed with these steps, there are times when you should call in a professional plumber. If you’ve tried to repair the faucet but the leak persists, or if you’re uncomfortable with any part of the repair process, it’s time to call in reinforcements. Plumbers are also better equipped to handle more complex issues like damaged valve seats or corroded pipes.
Tips to Prevent Future Faucet Leaks
Prevention is key when it comes to faucet leaks. Here are a few tips to keep your faucets leak-free:
- Don’t over tighten faucet handles, as this can damage the washers.
- Clean mineral deposits from faucet parts regularly.
- Replace washers and O-rings every few years as part of routine maintenance.
- Fix any leaks promptly, even if they seem minor.
By following these tips, you can significantly extend the life of your faucets and avoid the headache of a leaky faucet.
A leaky faucet is a common household problem, but it’s one that you can often fix yourself with a little know-how and the right tools. By following this step-by-step guide, you can fix that leaky faucet for good and save yourself the cost of a plumber.
However, if you do run into a more complex issue or if you’re unsure about any part of the repair process, don’t hesitate to call in a professional. At Yolo Plumbing, our skilled plumbers are always ready to help with all your plumbing needs, big or small. Contact us today to schedule your service!