How to Fix a Leaky Faucet

Conquer That Drippy Faucet! A DIY Guide

That dripping faucet? It's annoying, right? But it's also wasting water and costing you money. The good news? Fixing it yourself is easier than you think! This guide will walk you through it.

What Kind of Faucet Do You Have?

First things first: You need to know what type of faucet you're dealing with. This makes all the difference.

• Compression Faucets: These older faucets have separate hot and cold handles. Think of your grandparents' house!
• Ball Faucets: One handle controls everything. Simple, right?
• Cartridge Faucets: Like ball faucets, but with a cartridge instead of a ball.
• Ceramic Disc Faucets: Smooth and long-lasting. These are pretty modern.

Gather Your Tools

Getting everything ready beforehand makes the job a breeze. You'll need:

• Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
• Adjustable wrench
• Basin wrench (for under the sink)
• Pliers (needle-nose and channel-lock)
• Putty knife or scraper
• Replacement parts (O-rings, washers, etc. – depends on your faucet)
• Plumber's putty or silicone caulk
• Old towels
• Bucket

Fixing a Leaky Compression Faucet (Step-by-Step)

We'll focus on compression faucets, since they're common in older homes. Other faucet types are similar.

1. Turn off the water! Find the valves under the sink. Turn them clockwise.
2. Remove the handles. Use your screwdriver. Remember how they go back on!
3. Remove the packing nuts. Use your wrench. Be gentle!
4. Remove the stems. They should come out. If not, use pliers carefully. Check for worn parts.
5. Replace worn parts. O-rings and washers are usually the culprits.
6. Reassemble. Put everything back together, in reverse order.
7. Turn the water back on. Check for leaks.
8. Seal it up. Use plumber's putty or caulk if needed.

Troubleshooting

Sometimes things get tricky. Here are some common problems:

• Stripped screws? Try a screw extractor or a bigger screw.
• Stuck stems? Use penetrating oil.
• Leaks still happening? You might need to replace the whole cartridge. That's okay; it happens.

Home Plumbing Tips

Preventing problems is key! Here's what you should do:

• Check your faucets regularly.
• Clean the aerators.
• Don't use harsh chemicals.
• Learn basic plumbing skills! This is a great first step.

Beyond the Faucet: DIY Home Improvement

Fixing a leaky faucet is just the beginning! With a bit of practice, you can tackle other home projects. It feels amazing to do things yourself. Just be safe, and ask for help if you need it.

Save Money and Water!

You'll feel good about saving water and money. Plus, fixing it yourself is much cheaper than calling a plumber. It's a win-win!