The Reasons Behind Your Leaking Faucet (and How to Fix It)

Leaking faucets are inconvenient, wasteful, and can result in increased water costs. The first step in repairing any leak, whether it comes from a bathroom sink faucet or a stainless-steel kitchen faucet, is figuring out what caused it. The majority of leaks are caused by corrosion, worn-out parts, or problems with water pressure, and they are frequently fixable with simple tools. This tutorial will assist you in determining the issue and demonstrating how to resolve it.

Typical Reasons for a Leaky Faucet

1.   Worn-Out Washers

This helps ensure that the faucet's internal seal is tight. Water leaks as they deteriorate over time. Compression faucets, which have distinct hot and cold handles, frequently include this feature.

2. A malfunctioning O-ring

A little rubber ring called an O-ring aids in stopping leaks around the handle. Water may seep through if it becomes loose or worn out, particularly in faucets with a single handle.

3. The Valve Seat Corroded

The faucet and spout are connected via the valve seat. Your water supply's valve seat may rust and leak if minerals accumulate there. This can be avoided with routine cleaning.

4. Parts that are loose or worn out

Water can leak even when the faucet is off due to the loosening or wear of parts like screws, nuts, or cartridges over time.

5. Elevated Water Pressure

High water pressure may be pushing water past the seals if your faucet drips during specific periods (such as overnight or when using other appliances). The problem might be resolved by adjusting the pressure regulator.

Fixing a Leaky Faucet

Step 1: Assemble Your Equipment

Before you begin, gather these necessities:

·       Phillips and flathead screwdrivers with adjustable wrenches

·       O-rings, cartridges, or washer replacements

·       The plumber's tape

·       White vinegar (to remove mineral accumulation)

Step 2: Cut the Water Off

To stop the water from flowing while you work, locate the shutoff valves beneath the sink and turn them off.

Step 3: Disassemble the faucet

·       Remove the handle with a wrench or screwdriver.

·       Remove the ball, cartridge, or ceramic disc (for other types) or the packing nut and stem (for compression faucets).

Step 4: Change Out Damaged Components

·       A new O-ring and washer should be installed for compression faucets.

·       Replace the springs and rubber seats on ball faucets.

·       Replace the cartridge in ceramic disc or cartridge faucets.

Step 5: Reassemble and Clean

·       To remove mineral buildup, soak any corroded parts in white vinegar.

·       For a tight seal, wrap plumber's tape around threaded connections.

·       Put everything back in reverse order and reassemble the faucet.

Step 6: Restart the water supply

Restart the water supply gradually, then check the faucet. Verify that every component is securely fastened if leaks persist.

When to Make a Plumber Call

·       Fixing the majority of faucet leaks is simple, but you should contact a plumber if:

·       Even after parts were replaced, the faucet continues to leak.

·       The internal parts are severely damaged or rusted.

·       High water pressure is the cause of the leak, which needs to be adjusted by an expert.

·       You don't feel confident enough to fix it yourself.

Although repairing a leaky faucet is typically easy, it can waste a lot of water. Finding the source and replacing worn parts can save you money and avoid more serious plumbing problems, whether it's your kitchen faucet or bathroom sink. You can maintain your faucet functioning like new and stop the drip with the correct equipment and a little work!