It is very crucial for you to learn how to fix a leaky faucet nowadays, especially with the high costs of getting a plumber, and with the nuisance that a leaking faucet brings. Now there’s no need for you to call a plumber and go through shock after shock upon receiving the high billing. Just go through these easy to follow and simple steps and you’ll be fixing that annoying leaky faucet in no time.
Learning how to fix a leaky faucet is actually very easy, as long as you are equipped with the right tools and materials. Basically, all you need is a new washer (preferably one that is suited to the faucet you have at home), some rags, a wrench, and a screwdriver (flathead and Philipps).
Before you start tinkering with your leaky faucet, turn off the main water source. Most faucets have a shutoff or control valve somewhere along its pipes located under the sink. Turn it counter-clockwise to shut it off.
Aside from that, make sure you plug up the drain with some rags. This is to avoid small parts like screws and washers from going down the drain.
Once that is accomplished, you can now start repairing the leaky faucet. But first, be informed that these steps should be followed only when you have a conventional faucet. Other unconventional faucets might be more complicated, and you might use specific repair kits for it.
1. Under the handle, there is a nut where the faucet stem is joined to the water pipe. Use your wrench and twist the nut loose to remove it (counter-clockwise direction). With it, also turn the handle counterclockwise to take it off.
2. Once you have detached the handle, you will see a rubber-like washer that is held down by a screw. This washer is probably very old and falling down to pieces, which could be the reason why your faucet is leaking in the first place. Remove the old washer by unscrewing it, and then install the new washer. Remember that the new washer’s size should just be similar to that of the old washer. Tighten the screws on the new washer to secure it in place.
3. Reassemble everything. Replace the faucet handle (turn it clockwise), and tighten back the stem nut to its original location.
4. Do the checking. Turn the water back on and see if the faucet still leaks. If it still is, either you need to screw things more tightly or, you need to buy a new faucet rather than a new washer. And if all else fails, seek professional help and call a plumber.
And there they are – easy to follow and simple steps that will guide you about how to fix a leaky faucet. Now you can do it by yourself! There’s no need for you to call a plumber, or even your handy neighbor to help you around a leaky faucet. By doing it yourself, you free yourself from irritating dripping sounds, nasty sink stains brought upon by long-standing drips, and water wastage due to constant dripping. Put these steps close to your heart and you will never be in distress again.
About the Author:
Read more about how to fix a leaky faucet. All you need is fix a leaky faucet guide!
Recent Comments