How To Repair A Leaky Faucet

A leaky faucet is not just an annoying dripping sound; it can also lead to wasted water and higher utility bills. While it might be tempting to call a professional plumber, you can save time and money by learning how to fix a leaky faucet yourself. 

In this guide, we'll take you through the steps to repair a leaky faucet. Whether you're a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a beginner, Barlow Plumbing Service, Inc. in Asheville, NC, is here to help you become a plumbing pro!

Tools And Materials

Before we dive into the repair process, let's gather the necessary tools and materials you'll need for the job:

Tools:

1. Adjustable wrench
2. Screwdriver (Phillips and flat-head)
3. Slip-joint pliers
4. Allen wrench set
5. Pipe wrench (if necessary)
6. Plumber's tape (Teflon tape)
7. Bucket
8. Clean rags or towels

Materials:

1. Replacement parts (O-rings, washers, and cartridges) specific to your faucet type
2. Penetrating oil (e.g., WD-40)
3. Plumbers' grease
4. Replacement valve seat (if necessary)
5. Teflon tape

Safety Precautions

Safety should always be your top priority when working on any DIY project. Here are a few safety precautions to keep in mind before you start:

1. Turn off the water supply: Locate the shut-off valves under the sink and turn them clockwise to shut off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Protect your eyes: Wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from any debris or water splashes.
3. Be cautious with hot water: If you're working with hot water lines, make sure the water has cooled down before proceeding.
4. Use caution with chemicals: If you need to use any chemicals, such as penetrating oil, follow the manufacturer's instructions and use them in a well-ventilated area.

Now that we've covered the basics, let's move on to the step-by-step process of fixing a leaky faucet.

10 Steps To A Fixed Faucet

Step 1: Identify The Faucet Type

Before you start the repair, it's essential to know what type of faucet you have. Faucets come in various styles, including compression, ball, cartridge, and ceramic disk. Each type may have a different repair process, so identifying your faucet type is crucial.

Step 2: Turn Off The Water Supply

As mentioned earlier, locate the shut-off valves under the sink and turn them clockwise to shut off the water supply to the faucet. This step is crucial to prevent any water leaks or accidents during the repair.

Step 3: Remove The Faucet Handle

To access the internal components of the faucet, you'll need to remove the handle. Here's how:

1. Look for a decorative cap on top of the handle, usually labeled with the brand name or logo. Remove this cap carefully using a flat-head screwdriver.
2. Once the cap is removed, you'll find a screw that holds the handle in place. Use the appropriate screwdriver (Phillips or flat-head) to remove this screw.
3. Gently lift off the handle, exposing the faucet's internal components.

Step 4: Inspect And Replace O-Rings And Washers

In many cases, leaky faucets are caused by worn-out or damaged O-rings and washers. These components create a seal to prevent water from leaking. To inspect and replace them:

1. Examine the O-rings and washers for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage. If you notice any issues, it's time to replace them.
2. Use slip-joint pliers to remove the old O-rings and washers. Take note of their size and type, as you'll need to purchase replacements that match.
3. Coat the new O-rings and washers with plumber's grease to ensure a tight seal and prevent future leaks.
4. Reassemble the faucet by following the steps in reverse order. Make sure everything is securely fastened.

Step 5: Fix A Ball Faucet

If you have a ball faucet, follow these steps to repair it:

1. Use an Allen wrench to remove the handle's set screw and lift off the handle.
2. Use pliers to remove the cap and collar, exposing the faucet's cam and ball assembly.
3. Inspect the ball for any cracks or signs of wear. If it's damaged, replace it.
4. Replace the rubber seats and springs inside the faucet housing.
5. Reassemble the faucet, making sure everything is in its proper place.

Step 6: Repair A Cartridge Faucet

Cartridge faucets are another common type, and their repair process is slightly different:

1. Remove the handle by following the same steps mentioned earlier.
2. Use pliers to remove the retaining clip (if present) and pull out the cartridge.
3. Inspect the cartridge for any damage or wear and replace it if necessary.
4. Reassemble the faucet, ensuring that all components are properly aligned.

Step 7: Fix A Ceramic Disk Faucet

For ceramic disk faucets, the repair process involves the following steps:

1. Remove the handle and any decorative cap as previously described.
2. Locate the ceramic disk cartridge inside the faucet body. You may need to unscrew it using an adjustable wrench.
3. Inspect the ceramic disks for any cracks or damage. If you find any, replace the entire cartridge.
4. Reassemble the faucet, making sure everything fits snugly.

Step 8: Replace The Valve Seat (If Necessary)

Sometimes, a leaky faucet may be due to a damaged valve seat. To replace it:

1. Remove the faucet body by unscrewing it from the plumbing pipe. Use a pipe wrench if necessary.
2. Inside the faucet body, you'll find the valve seat. Use a valve seat wrench to unscrew and remove it.
3. Install a new valve seat in its place, ensuring it's securely tightened.
4. Reattach the faucet body to the plumbing pipe.

Step 9: Reassemble And Test The Faucet

With all the necessary repairs completed, it's time to reassemble the faucet:

1. Reattach the handle, screw, and decorative cap.
2. Turn on the water supply slowly to check for leaks. If there are no leaks, congratulations! You've successfully fixed your leaky faucet.
3. If you still notice leaks, double-check your work and ensure all components are properly installed. It's possible that you missed a damaged part or didn't secure everything tightly.

Step 10: Prevent Future Leaks With Teflon Tape

To prevent future leaks, consider applying Teflon tape to the threads of any connections:

1. Wrap Teflon tape around the threads of pipes, valves, or other connections in a clockwise direction.
2. Ensure the tape is snug but not too tight, as overtightening can cause damage.
3. Reconnect any plumbing components.

Need Help? Don’t Hesitate To Call For Backup

Repairing a leaky faucet may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and a bit of know-how, it's a manageable DIY project. By following these steps, you can save money on plumbing services and gain the satisfaction of fixing a common household issue yourself.

However, if you encounter any difficulties during the repair process or if your faucet continues to leak after multiple attempts, it's essential to know when to call in the professionals. Barlow Plumbing Service, Inc. in Asheville, NC, is here to assist you with all your plumbing needs, ensuring your home's plumbing systems run smoothly and efficiently. We assist folks with leaky faucets and plumbing issues far beyond that in Asheville, Weaverville, and Black Mountain areas.

Remember, regular maintenance and prompt repairs can help you save money on water bills, prevent water damage, and contribute to a more sustainable environment by conserving water. So, don't let that leaky faucet persist – tackle the issue head-on or call for help and enjoy a drip-free, efficient plumbing system!