How to Repair a Leaky Faucet

A dripping faucet? It's more than just annoying. It's like throwing money down the drain and wasting water. That drip... drip... drip... sound can get to you, right? Plus, your water bill goes up. But hey, fixing it yourself is often easy! Even if you're new to this. I'll show you how to fix it and save some cash. One thing, though: safety first! Always shut off the water before you start.

Why is My Faucet Leaking? Let's Find Out

Before you grab your tools, let's figure out why it's leaking. Knowing the reason will help you fix it right. Here are some common reasons:

• Worn-Out Washers: This is super common. Washers are like rubber discs. They seal things. But they can wear out over time.
• O-Ring Problems: O-rings are small rubber rings. They also seal things. Like washers, they can get old and leaky.
• Corroded Valve Seat: The valve seat is where the washer presses. If it's rusty or has buildup, it won't seal right.
• Loose Parts: Things can get loose over time. Nuts and screws, you know?
• Damaged Cartridge: Some faucets use a cartridge. If it's cracked, it'll leak.
• High Water Pressure: This isn't as common, but too much pressure can cause problems.

What You'll Need

Okay, time to gather your stuff. Having everything ready makes the job easier. Here’s a list:

• Adjustable Wrench: For loosening and tightening stuff.
• Screwdrivers (Phillips and Flathead): To take off handles and get inside.
• Pliers: For grabbing small parts.
• Allen Wrench Set: Some handles use these.
• Penetrating Oil: To help loosen stuck parts.
• Basin Wrench (Optional): For tight spots under the sink.
• New Washers, O-Rings, and Cartridges: Get a kit or the parts you need. Take the old parts with you to the store to make sure you get the right ones.
• Plumber's Grease: To make things smooth and prevent rust.
• Clean Rags or Sponges: For cleaning up.
• Old Towel: To protect your sink.
• Small Container: For holding small parts so you don't lose them.

How to Fix a Leaky Faucet: The Basics

The exact steps depend on your faucet type. But here's the general idea:

1. Turn Off the Water: Really important! Find the shut-off valves under the sink. Turn them until they're closed. No valves? Turn off the main water supply.
2. Plug the Sink Drain: So you don't lose any small parts.
3. Protect the Sink: Put a towel in the sink.
4. Take the Faucet Apart: This is where it changes depending on your faucet. You want to get to the parts that are leaking. Usually, you take off the handle first.
5. Find the Leaking Part: Look closely at the parts. Are they worn, broken, or rusty?
6. Replace the Bad Part: Get a new part that's the right size and type.
7. Lube It Up: Put plumber's grease on the new parts.
8. Put It Back Together: Do the reverse of taking it apart.
9. Turn the Water Back On: Slowly. Check for leaks.
10. Test It Out: Turn the faucet on and off. Still leaking?

Different Faucet Types, Different Fixes

Let's get into the specifics for each type of faucet.

Compression Faucets: The Old-School Type

These are the oldest kind. They have two handles, one for hot and one for cold. Leaks are usually from worn-out washers.

1. Take It Apart: Take off the cap on the handle. Loosen the screw. Pull off the handle. Unscrew the packing nut and take out the stem.
2. Change the Washer: At the bottom of the stem is the washer. Take out the screw and put in a new washer.
3. Check the Valve Seat: Look inside the faucet. If it's rusty, clean it. If it's really bad, you might need to replace it (that's harder).
4. Put It Back Together: Grease the threads and the new washer. Put everything back together.

Ball Faucets: The Single-Handle Type

These have one handle that controls everything. They use a ball and O-rings. Leaks are often from worn-out O-rings.

1. Take It Apart: Loosen the set screw on the handle. Pull off the handle. Use a wrench to loosen the cap. Take out the ball.
2. Change the O-Rings: You'll see O-rings on the ball and inside the faucet. Replace them with new ones.
3. Check the Springs: Look at the springs under the ball. If they're bad, replace them.
4. Put It Back Together: Grease the ball and O-rings. Put everything back together.

Cartridge Faucets: The Modern Type

These also have one handle. They use a cartridge. Leaks are often from a cracked cartridge.

1. Take It Apart: Take off the handle. Remove the clip that holds the cartridge.
2. Change the Cartridge: Pull out the old cartridge. Put in a new one. Make sure it's lined up right.
3. Put It Back Together: Put the clip back on. Reattach the handle.

Ceramic Disc Faucets: The High-Tech Type

These are the newest type. They use ceramic discs. Leaks are often from mineral buildup.

1. Take It Apart: Loosen the set screw on the handle. Pull off the handle. Remove the cap and unscrew the cylinder.
2. Clean the Discs: Carefully take out the discs. Clean them with a soft cloth.
3. Change the Cartridge (if needed): If the discs are broken, you might need a new cartridge.
4. Put It Back Together: Grease the O-rings. Put everything back together.

Still Leaking? Here's What to Do

Sometimes, even after you fix it, it still leaks. Here are some tips:

• Leak at the Base: This is often a bad O-ring. Tighten the nuts under the sink. If that doesn't work, take off the faucet and use new plumber's putty.
• Leak from the Handle: Usually bad O-rings on the stem or cartridge. Replace them.
• Dripping Spout: Usually bad washers or a bad cartridge. Replace them.
• Water Hammer: Loud banging noise? You might have water hammer. Install water hammer arrestors.

When to Call a Plumber

Sometimes, it's best to call a pro. Like if:

• You don't feel comfortable working with plumbing.
• You can't find the leak.
• You tried to fix it, and it still leaks.
• You have rusty pipes or other big problems.
• You don't have the right tools.

Keep Your Faucets Happy

Here's how to keep your faucets working well:

• Check them regularly: Look for leaks.
• Tighten loose parts: Nuts and screws.
• Clean the aerators: The screen at the end of the spout.
• Grease the moving parts: With plumber's grease.
• Fix leaks quickly: Don't wait!

Save Money and Water!

Fixing a leaky faucet saves money and water. A dripping faucet can waste a lot of water. By fixing it, you're helping the environment. Plus, you're saving money on your water bill. That's a win-win!

So, there you go! You can fix that leaky faucet. You'll save money, help the environment, and feel good about doing it yourself. Be safe, take your time, and don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it. Good luck!