How to Fix a Leaky Faucet: A Step-by-Step Guide

July 24, 2024

A leaky faucet is a nuisance that wastes water and increases your utility bills. Fortunately, fixing a leaky faucet is a straightforward task that can be accomplished with a few basic tools and some patience.

This guide will walk you through the steps to fix a leaky faucet, helping you save water and money.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you start, gather the following tools and materials:

Adjustable Wrench
Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips)
Pliers
Replacement Parts (O-rings, washers, or faucet cartridge)
Plumber’s Tape
Cleaning supplies (rags, vinegar, and a scrub brush)

Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply

Locate the water shutoff valves under the sink and turn them off by twisting them clockwise. If you can’t find the shutoff valves, you may need to turn off the main water supply to your home. Once the water is off, open the faucet to release any remaining water in the pipes.

Step 2: Plug the Sink Drain

To prevent small parts from falling down the drain, plug the sink with a stopper or a rag. This will save you the trouble of fishing out any dropped screws or washers.

Step 3: Identify the Faucet Types

There are several types of faucets, including compression, ball, cartridge, and ceramic disk faucets. Identifying your faucet type will help you determine which parts may need replacing:

Compression faucets have separate hot and cold handles and operate with a screw mechanism.
Ball faucets have a single handle and use a ball assembly to control water flow.
Cartridge faucets can have one or two handles and use a cartridge to regulate water flow.
Ceramic disk faucets have a single lever and use a ceramic cylinder to control water flow.

Step 4: Disassemble the Faucet

Carefully remove the faucet handle(s). This process varies depending on the faucet type:

For compression faucets, pry off the decorative cap, unscrew the handle, and remove it.
For ball faucets, remove the handle set screw, lift the handle off, and use pliers to remove the cap.
For cartridge faucets, remove the handle screw, lift off the handle, and remove the retaining clip with pliers.
For ceramic disk faucets, remove the handle screw and lift off the handle.

Once the handle is removed, you will see the inner components of the faucet.

Step 5: Inspect and Replace WornParts

Examine the O-rings, washers, and other parts for wear and tear. Common causes of leaks include worn-out washers and O-rings. Replace any damaged parts with new ones, ensuring they match the old parts in size and shape.

For compression faucets, replace the rubber washer at the base of the stem and the O-rings.
For ball faucets, replace the ball assembly, springs, and rubber seats.
For cartridge faucets, replace the cartridge if it is damaged or worn.
For ceramic disk faucets, replace the ceramic cylinder if it is cracked or worn.

Step 6: Clean the Components

Before reassembling the faucet, clean the internal components and the faucet body. Use vinegar and a scrub brush to remove any mineral deposits or debris.

Step 7: Reassemble the Faucet

Carefully reassemble the faucet by reversing the disassembly steps. Ensure all parts are securely in place, but avoid over-tightening, which can cause damage.

Step 8: Turn on the Water Supply

Turn on the water supply and slowly open the faucet to check for leaks. If the faucet still leaks, double-check that all parts are installed correctly and securely.

DIY or Contact a Pro?

While fixing a leaky faucet is a manageable task that can save you money and conserve water, contacting a professional plumbing service like Echo Plumbing is recommended. By following these steps and taking your time, you can restore your faucet to proper working order and enjoy a drip-free sink. If you’re unsure of your handy skills, encounter any difficulties, or the leak persists, it may be best to give us a call.

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