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How to Fix a Leaky Faucet

Originally posted on Men's Journal | By Max Winters | Last updated Nov 27, 2024 1:00 PM ET

Is the constant drip-drip-drip of your faucet driving you up the wall? A dripping faucet isn’t just an annoyance; it can also waste gallons of water and cause extensive water damage. Luckily, you don’t need to be a professional plumber to tackle this common household problem.

What are the most common causes of a leaky faucet?

Worn-out washers: Over time, the rubber washers inside your faucet wear out from friction, leading to leaks.
Damaged O-rings: These small rubber rings provide a watertight seal in the faucet, and when they’re cracked or loose, dripping ensues.
Corroded valve seat: The valve seat connects the faucet to the spout. Corrosion here can result in leaks near the spout’s base.
Loose or broken parts: Screws, nuts, or other components inside the faucet can loosen or break, causing leaks.
Water pressure issues: High water pressure might cause water to trickle out even when the faucet is off.

Finding the Source of the Leak

Turn off the water supply: Before attempting a faucet repair, shut off the valves under the sink or the main water supply. This prevents further mess.
Inspect the faucet parts: Remove any decorative caps or screws, and take the faucet apart piece by piece. Look signs of wear like worn washers, O-rings, or mineral buildup.
Check for corrosion or buildup: Examine the valve seat and other metal components for mineral deposits or rust, which might need cleaning or replacement.

How to Repair a Leaky FaucetGather Your Tools

Adjustable wrench
Screwdriver
Replacement washers, O-rings, or faucet cartridge (depending on the issue)
Plumber’s tape
Soft Scouring Pad
A small bowl for screws and tiny parts

1. Turn off Water

Locate the water supply valves on the braided water supply line under the sink (this is the case for all types of faucets).
Turn these valves to the right (clockwise). This stops the flow of water.

2. Disassemble the Faucet

Use a screwdriver to remove the handle and access the internal parts of the faucet body.
Take note of how everything fits together or snap a photo for easy reassembly.

3. Replace Worn or Damaged Parts

Inspect plumbing fixtures like washers, O-rings, or cartridge and replace any broken seals or worn-out components.
Rub off any hard water sediments from faucet fixtures with the scouring pad and clean with a soft cloth.
If the valve seat is corroded, use a seat grinder to smooth it out, or replace it if necessary.

4. Reassemble the Faucet

Carefully put the faucet back together, ensuring all parts are snug but not overly tight.

5. Turn the Water Back On and Test

Slowly turn the water supply back on and check for leaks a few times over the course of a couple of hours. Tighten anything if necessary, and enjoy your drip-free faucet!

FAQ

How do I know which replacement parts to buy?

Bring the worn parts or the faucet’s model information to a hardware store. Staff can help you find the exact match for replacements, or you can look up parts online using the brand and faucet model name. Remember that it may be easier to buy an entire cartridge rather than searching for the correct replacement for tiny faucet hardware. Some newer faucet components will have a lifetime guarantee for common issues.

What if my faucet is still leaking after repairs?

If the faucet leak persists, you might have overlooked a damaged part, or the issue could stem from water pressure or common household plumbing issues. Double-check your work, and if the problem continues, call an experienced plumber sooner than later.

Can I prevent my faucet from leaking in the future?

Absolutely! Regular maintenance, such as cleaning mineral deposits from the faucet filter and replacing worn washers or rubber O-ring seals, can extend the lifespan of your faucet. Have some common tools for a faucet repair kit (pipe wrench, adjustable pliers, screwdriver) on hand for easy maintenance Avoid twisting the handles too hard, as this accelerates wear and tear.

This article first appeared on Men's Journal and was syndicated with permission.

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