A dripping faucet can be so irritating. It’s an effort not only in terms of water wastage, but that annoying drip-drip sound can drive you up the wall. The good news is that a leaky faucet is easier to fix than you might think — and you can do it yourself in just a few minutes! In this write up, I take you through how to help you stop that leak and conserve water (and money).
Why Does a Faucet Leak?
Before you repair it, it’s essential to understand why faucets leak. Most leaks result from faulty washers, seals or O-rings within the faucet. These parts control water flow, and water begins to drip when it becomes old or worn out.
Most types of Faucets are:
- Compression (Separate Hot and Cold Handles)
- Cartridge faucets (Single and Double handle)
- Ball faucets
- Disc faucets
The way to repair them may be slightly different, but the fundamentals are the same.
What You Will Need
- Adjustable wrench or pliers
- Screwdriver
- Replacement washers, O-rings or cartridges (depending on your faucet type) ● Cloth or rag
Some plumber’s grease if you have it (optional)
How to Repair a Dripping Faucet Using This Step-By-Step Guide
Step 1: Disable the Aqua Supply
Before you begin, shut off the water going to your faucet. Get down under your sink and locate the shutoff valves. Turn them clockwise to close.
Step 2: Plug the Drain
Block the drain with a sink plug or a piece of cloth. This keeps small parts from falling down the drain while you work.
Step 3 - Removing the Faucet Handle
The faucet handle can be removed using a screwdriver or wrench. Some handles have a snap-on decorative cap that conceals the screw — gently pry it off with a flathead screwdriver. Unscrew the handle and pull it off.
Step 4: Inspect the Parts
You can see the interior components, such as the cartridge or valve stem, with the handle off. Check for old washers or seals. These parts appear cracked, flattened, or broken.
Step 5: Take Out and Replace Broken Parts
Take out the worn washer or cartridge with your tools. Bring the old parts to the hardware store for direct replacements. Put them back carefully and give the O-rings or washers a generic water-based lube-like plumber’s grease if you have some (it’ll keep them from drying out).
Step 6: Reassemble the Faucet
Put everything back in reverse order: put new parts, reattach the handle, and screw back together.
Step 7: Open the Water and Test
Turn on the water supply and see if there is no more leak. Open and close the faucet a few times to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Some tips to avoid leaks in your faucet
- Avoid over-tightening screws and parts; it may harm the faucet.
- Wash the faucet pieces frequently so there will be no dirt or mineral deposits.
- If you still see leak after repair, it may be time to replace the entire faucet or call a plumber from plumbing company.
Wrapping up
Fixing a leaky faucet is one of the easiest things anyone can do with the right tools and a little patience. You’ll conserve water, lower your bills, and have a sink that doesn’t drip. Give it a
shot, and experience firsthand how good it feels to solve problems.