How To Repair A Leaky Faucet?

Repairing a leaky faucet is a common plumbing task that can save you water and money on your utility bills. The specific steps to repair a leaky faucet may vary depending on the type of faucet you have (e.g., compression, ball, cartridge, or ceramic disk), but here's a general guide:

Tools and Supplies You May Need:

• Adjustable wrench
• Screwdriver (flat-head and Phillips)
• Replacement parts (O-rings, washers, cartridges, or seals)
• Plumber's tape (Teflon tape)
• Penetrating oil (e.g., WD-40)
• Towel or rag
• Bucket or container
• Plumber's putty (for some types of faucets)
• Channel-lock pliers (for some types of faucets)

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Turn Off the Water Supply:

   • Locate the shut-off valves under the sink that supply water to the faucet. Turn both valves clockwise to shut off the hot and cold water supply. If you can't find shut-off valves under the sink, you may need to turn off the main water supply to your home.

2. Prepare Your Work Area:

   • Place a towel or rag in the sink to catch any small parts that may fall.
   • Close the sink's drain to prevent small parts from going down the drain.

3. Determine the Type of Faucet:

   • Faucets can have different internal mechanisms. Identify whether your faucet is a compression, ball, cartridge, or ceramic disk type. Knowing this will help you understand how to proceed.

4. Disassemble the Faucet:

   • Use a screwdriver to remove any decorative caps or handles covering the faucet's screws. For some faucets, you may need an Allen wrench to remove the handle.
   • Carefully remove the handle(s) and any other components, such as a decorative escutcheon or bonnet nut, to access the faucet's internal parts.

5. Inspect and Replace Faulty Parts:

   • Inspect the internal components for damage or wear, such as O-rings, washers, cartridges, or seals.
   • If you find damaged or worn parts, replace them with matching replacements from your local hardware store. Bring the old parts with you to ensure you get the correct replacements.

6. Reassemble the Faucet:

   • Put the faucet back together in the reverse order of disassembly. Make sure all components are properly aligned and tightened.

7. Apply Plumber's Tape (Teflon Tape):

   • If your faucet uses threaded connections, wrap a few turns of plumber's tape clockwise around the threads to create a watertight seal.

8. Turn On the Water Supply:

   • Slowly turn the shut-off valves counterclockwise to restore the water supply.

9. Check for Leaks:

   • Turn on the faucet and check for any leaks. If you notice any leaks, try tightening the connections or reassembling the faucet.

10. Flush the Faucet:

    • Allow the water to run for a minute or two to clear any air from the lines.

11. Clean Up:

    • Wipe down the area, replace any decorative components, and clean the faucet handles.

If you're not comfortable with these steps or if the faucet continues to leak after attempting repairs, it may be best to contact a professional plumber to diagnose and fix the issue, especially if you have an older or more complex faucet.