How to Repair a Leaky Faucet: A Comprehensive Guide
A leaky faucet is a common plumbing problem that can waste water, increase your water bill, and damage your home. It can also be annoying to listen to a faucet dripping all the time. Fortunately, repairing a leaky faucet is a relatively simple task that most DIYers can handle.
Types of faucets
There are two main types of faucets: compression faucets and cartridge faucets.
- Compression faucets: Compression faucets have a washer that creates a watertight seal between the stem and the seat. When you turn the handle, the stem presses down on the washer, creating a seal that stops the water from flowing. Over time, the washer can become worn or damaged, causing the faucet to leak.
- Cartridge faucets: Cartridge faucets have a single cartridge that controls both the flow and temperature of the water. When you turn the handle, the cartridge rotates, opening and closing different ports to control the flow of water. If the cartridge becomes worn or damaged, it can cause the faucet to leak.
Identifying the source of the leak
Before you can repair a leaky faucet, you need to identify the source of the leak. This can be done by turning off the water supply to the faucet and checking for wet spots around the faucet base, handle, and spout. If you see water coming from anywhere other than the spout, you have found the source of the leak.
Repairing a compression faucet
To repair a compression faucet, you will need to replace the washer.
- Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
- Remove the faucet handle. This is usually done by unscrewing a set screw located on the underside of the handle.
- Remove the stem. This is done by unscrewing the packing nut, which is the nut that holds the stem in place.
- Remove the washer from the bottom of the stem.
- Replace the washer with a new one.
- Reassemble the faucet in reverse order.
- Turn on the water supply and check for leaks.
Repairing a cartridge faucet
To repair a cartridge faucet, you will need to replace the cartridge.
- Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
- Remove the faucet handle. This is usually done by unscrewing a set screw located on the underside of the handle.
- Remove the retaining clip that holds the cartridge in place.
- Pull out the cartridge.
- Replace the cartridge with a new one.
- Reassemble the faucet in reverse order.
- Turn on the water supply and check for leaks.
Tips for repairing a leaky faucet
Here are a few tips for repairing a leaky faucet:
- Use a wrench or pliers to tighten any loose connections.
- Be careful not to overtighten any connections, as this could damage the faucet.
- Use a lubricant, such as plumber’s grease, on any moving parts to reduce friction and wear and tear.
- If you are replacing the washer, make sure to get the correct size washer for your faucet.
- If you are replacing the cartridge, make sure to get the correct cartridge for your faucet.
Preventing leaky faucets
There are a few things you can do to prevent leaky faucets:
- Avoid overtightening the faucet handle.
- Use a wrench or pliers to tighten the faucet handle snugly.
- Avoid putting grease or oil on the faucet handle.
- Grease and oil can attract dirt and grime, which can clog the faucet and cause it to leak.
- Flush the faucet regularly.
- To flush the faucet, turn on the water and let it run for a few minutes. This will help to remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated in the faucet.
Repairing a leaky faucet is a relatively simple task that most DIYers can handle. By following the tips above, you can save yourself the time and expense of calling a plumber. if you are in denver or aurora or anywhere in Colorado just call Aurora Emergency Plumbing