How To Repair A Leaky Faucet
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How To Repair A Leaky Faucet

3 min read 07-02-2025
How To Repair A Leaky Faucet

A leaky faucet is more than just annoying; it wastes water and can lead to higher utility bills. Fortunately, repairing a leaky faucet is often a manageable DIY project. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, equipping you with the knowledge and confidence to tackle this common household problem. Whether you have a compression, cartridge, or ceramic disc faucet, we'll cover the basics for each type.

Identifying Your Faucet Type

Before you begin, it's crucial to identify the type of faucet you have. This will determine the specific repair steps you'll need to follow. The three most common types are:

  • Compression Faucets: These older faucets have separate hot and cold handles and use compression to control water flow. They typically have a packing nut beneath the handle.
  • Cartridge Faucets: These faucets have a single handle that controls both temperature and flow. The water flow is controlled by a cartridge located within the faucet body.
  • Ceramic Disc Faucets: Similar to cartridge faucets in their single-handle design, these use ceramic discs to control water flow. Repairing these often involves replacing the entire disc assembly.

Tools You'll Need

Regardless of your faucet type, you'll likely need these tools:

  • Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead): For removing handles and accessing internal components.
  • Adjustable Wrench: For loosening and tightening nuts and connections.
  • Basin Wrench: Especially helpful for hard-to-reach nuts under the sink.
  • Pliers (needle-nose and slip-joint): For gripping small parts and tightening connections.
  • Putty Knife: For removing old plumber's putty or sealant.
  • Flashlight: To illuminate the work area under the sink.
  • Replacement Parts: You'll need to purchase appropriate replacement parts (O-rings, cartridges, washers, etc.) based on your faucet type. Take a photo of your faucet's internal components before dismantling for easier identification at the hardware store.

Repairing a Compression Faucet

  1. Turn Off the Water: Shut off the water supply valves under the sink for both hot and cold water lines.
  2. Remove the Handles: Unscrew the handle caps and remove the handles using the appropriate screwdriver.
  3. Remove the Packing Nut: Loosen and remove the packing nut using an adjustable wrench or basin wrench.
  4. Replace the O-rings and Washers: Inspect the O-rings and washers for wear and tear. Replace any damaged parts.
  5. Reassemble the Faucet: Reassemble the faucet in reverse order, ensuring all parts are properly seated.
  6. Turn On the Water: Slowly turn the water supply valves back on and check for leaks.

Repairing a Cartridge Faucet

  1. Turn Off the Water: As with compression faucets, begin by turning off the water supply valves.
  2. Remove the Handle: Remove the handle by unscrewing it or using a special handle removal tool. There may be a setscrew hidden underneath a decorative cap that needs to be loosened first.
  3. Remove the Cartridge: Access and remove the cartridge. This typically involves removing a retaining clip or nut.
  4. Replace the Cartridge: Install the new cartridge, ensuring it's properly seated.
  5. Reassemble the Faucet: Put everything back together and turn the water supply back on, checking for leaks.

Repairing a Ceramic Disc Faucet

  1. Turn Off the Water: Again, begin by turning off the water supply valves.
  2. Remove the Handle: Remove the handle similarly to how you would with a cartridge faucet.
  3. Remove the Disc Assembly: Access and remove the ceramic disc assembly. This often requires removing a retaining clip or nut.
  4. Replace the Disc Assembly: Install the new disc assembly, making sure it's seated correctly.
  5. Reassemble the Faucet: Reassemble and turn on the water, checking for leaks.

Preventing Future Leaks

Regular maintenance can significantly extend the life of your faucet and prevent future leaks. Consider these preventative measures:

  • Regular Inspection: Periodically check your faucet for any signs of leaks or drips.
  • Lubrication: Occasionally lubricate moving parts with faucet grease to reduce friction and wear.
  • Avoid Over-Tightening: Avoid over-tightening nuts and connections, which can damage parts.

By following these steps and exercising a little patience, you can effectively repair a leaky faucet and save water and money in the process. Remember, if you are uncomfortable performing this repair yourself, it's always best to call a qualified plumber.

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