5 Easy Steps To Fix a Leaky Faucet

5/25/2022 (Permalink)

Fixing A Leaky Faucet In 5 Easy Steps

An unattended leaking faucet can lead to water-damaged homes in Mission, KS. Before needing a restoration company, you can follow these steps to fix your dripping faucet.

1. Shut Off Water Supply

Turn off the water by either twisting the valve underneath your sink or shutting off your home’s water supply. Leave the faucet on to drain any remaining water from the line. Then plug the drain so you don't lose any tools or parts.

2. Remove Handle

If your faucet has a decorative cover, remove it first with a flat head screwdriver. Then use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the nail underneath the cover. Other faucets have a nail behind the handle, which can be removed with an Allen wrench or hex key. Now pull the handle free.

3. Determine the Type of Faucet

There are four different faucet types: compression, ceramic-disk, cartridge and ball. Knowing what kind of faucet you have tells you what parts you need to replace. A compression faucet has two screw handles for hot and cold water. The other three types have one arm that swivels between hot and cold water. Once you take the handle apart, you can tell what kind it is. A ceramic-disk faucet has a ceramic cylinder, a cartridge has a cartridge and a ball has a ball bearing.

4. Replace Leaking Faucet Parts

For a compression faucet, replace the O-rings if the handles are leaking. Change the seat washer if the tap is dripping. To fix ceramic-disk faucets, remove the escutcheon cap and disk cylinder. Then soak the seals in white vinegar before replacing them. For cartridge faucets, remove the faucet spout and replace the O-rings. Ball faucets require a kit with special tools to replace the O-rings and install new cam washers, springs and valve seats.

5. Reinstall Handle

Reattach the faucet handle and clear your workspace. Ensure proper function by running hot and cold water.

A fixed leak provides peace of mind knowing you and your home are safe from a leaking faucet and water damage. The time and effort are worth the sense of security.