How To Fix Your Leaking Faucet

DIY – Learn How to Fix Your Leaking Faucet

Stop Your Faucet From Leaking With These Easy Steps

Replacement parts (O-rings, washers, or valve cartridges, depending on your faucet type)

Screwdriver

Adjustable wrench

Pliers

Plumber’s grease

Before starting any repair, it’s crucial to shut off the water to prevent any accidental flooding.

Locate Shut-Off Valves: Look under your sink for two valves (one for hot and one for cold water). Turn them clockwise to shut them off.
Release Pressure: Turn the faucet on to drain any remaining water in the pipes. This step will relieve pressure and prevent water from spraying when you start disassembling the faucet.

Prevent small parts from falling into the sink drain during the repair.

Use a Sink Plug or Rag: Cover the drain opening with a sink plug or a rag. This safety measure will catch screws, washers, or other small parts that could accidentally fall.

The handle is the first part you’ll need to remove to access the inner workings of the faucet.

Locate the Handle Screws: Depending on the type of faucet, the handle may have a visible screw or a hidden screw under a decorative cap.
- Remove Decorative Cap: If there’s a cap, gently pry it off with a flathead screwdriver to expose the screw.
Unscrew the Handle: Use the appropriate screwdriver (Phillips or flathead) to remove the screw holding the handle in place.
Lift Off the Handle: Once the screw is removed, lift the handle straight up or pull it away from the faucet body.

To access the washers, O-rings, or cartridge, you’ll need to disassemble more parts of the faucet.

Remove the Packing Nut: The packing nut is located beneath the handle. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen and remove it.
- Caution: Be careful not to scratch or damage the faucet finish. You can wrap a cloth around the wrench or faucet to prevent this.
Extract the Stem or Cartridge: Depending on your faucet type:
- Compression Faucets: You’ll see a stem assembly. Unscrew the stem from the valve using a wrench.
- Cartridge Faucets: Pull the cartridge straight up to remove it from the body. Some may require a special tool or pliers to pull out.

Inspect all parts for signs of wear and tear, as these are often the cause of leaks.

Examine the O-Rings and Washers: Look for cracks, tears, or flattened surfaces. These parts seal the water flow; any damage can cause leaks.
Replace with New Parts: Take the old parts to a hardware store to ensure you buy the correct replacements. It’s essential to get the right size and type.
- Compression Faucets: Replace rubber washers and O-rings.
- Cartridge Faucets: Replace the entire cartridge if it’s worn or damaged.

After replacing the damaged parts, it’s time to put everything back together.

Apply Plumber’s Grease: Before reassembling, apply a thin layer of plumber’s grease to the O-rings, washers, and threads. This will help create a better seal and make future disassembly easier.
Reinsert the Stem or Cartridge: Place the new or repaired stem/cartridge back into the faucet body.
Tighten the Packing Nut: Use the adjustable wrench to carefully tighten the packing nut. Be careful not to overtighten, as this could damage the faucet.
Reattach the Handle: Place the handle back on the stem or cartridge and screw it into place. Remember to replace the decorative cap if there was one.

Now that the faucet is reassembled, it’s time to turn the water supply back on.

Slowly Open Shut-Off Valves: Turn the valves under the sink counterclockwise to open them slowly. This gradual approach helps avoid a sudden burst of pressure that could cause leaks.
Check for Leaks: As you turn the water back on, keep an eye under the sink and around the faucet for any signs of leaking.

Finally, ensure everything is working correctly.

Turn the Faucet On and Off: Open the faucet and let the water run for a few minutes. This process will clear any air pockets and help you check for leaks.
Check the Water Flow: Ensure both hot and cold water are flowing correctly and that the faucet turns off without any drips.