Stop the Drip: Fixing Your Leaky Faucet

Learn the foolproof way to fix that annoying leaky faucet with our easy-to-follow guide.

Identifying the Type of Faucet You Have

Before you can tackle the problem of a leaky faucet, you need to know what type of faucet you're dealing with. Faucets come in several types including compression, cartridge, ball, and disc. Each type has its own unique mechanism and fixing methods. Compression faucets are the oldest and most common type, known for their separate hot and cold water handles. Cartridge faucets can have either one or two handles, ball faucets have a single handle that moves over a rounded ball-shaped cap right above the base of the faucet spout, and disc faucets are the newest type of faucet, recognizable by their single lever over a wide cylindrical body.

It's crucial to accurately identify the faucet to ensure you buy the correct replacement parts. Taking a quick look under the sink or at the manual that came with the faucet can usually give you this information. If you're still unsure, a photo of the faucet and a trip to your local hardware store can help you identify the type. Remember, knowing your faucet type is the key to a successful repair.

Gathering the Right Tools for the Job

Equipping yourself with the proper tools is essential for fixing a leaky faucet without additional trips to the hardware store. For most faucet repairs, you'll need a few standard tools: an adjustable wrench, a set of Allen keys, a flathead and/or Phillips screwdriver, and slip-joint pliers. Depending on your faucet type, you might also need a faucet handle puller or a cartridge pulling tool. Sealant tape and replacement O-rings or washers are also crucial since these are often the parts that need replacing.

Before you start, make sure you've turned off the water supply to your sink to prevent any accidental flooding. The shut-off valves are usually located under the sink. Once the water is off, turn on the faucet to relieve any remaining pressure and drain leftover water in the pipes. This is a good time to plug the drain to prevent any small parts from falling in as you work.

Step-by-Step Guide to Dismantling Your Faucet

Dismantling a faucet might seem daunting, but with careful steps, it's something you can do on your own. Start by prying off the decorative cap on the handle, exposing the screw that holds the handle in place. Using a screwdriver or an Allen key, remove the screw and gently wiggle the handle off the stem. For compression faucets, you'll need to unscrew the packing nut to reveal the valve stem, which can be removed to expose the washer at the bottom. In cartridge, ball, or disc faucets, you'll find a cartridge, ball, or disc assembly that can be removed by loosening the retaining nut or screws.

Throughout this process, keep a close eye on the order and orientation of the parts as you remove them – taking photos can help. This will make reassembly much smoother. Lay out the parts in the order they were removed on a towel to prevent them from rolling away.

Replacing Worn-Out Parts

With the faucet dismantled, inspect the parts for signs of wear. This could be anything from a degraded rubber washer or O-ring to a corroded valve seat or a worn-out cartridge. For compression faucets, replacing the rubber washer that's held in place by a screw at the bottom of the valve stem often fixes the leak. In a cartridge, ball, or disc faucet, you'll likely need to replace the entire cartridge or O-rings. Your local hardware store can provide you with the correct replacements.

Make sure to also check the valve seat, which can become corroded and cause leaks. Some valve seats are removable and can be replaced if necessary. If the seat is not removable, a valve seat dresser can be used to smooth out any irregularities.

Reassembling Your Faucet and Testing for Leaks

Reassembly is simply the reverse of disassembly. Replace the worn-out parts with new ones, ensuring they fit snugly and are properly aligned. Apply sealant tape around the threads of the valve seat to ensure a watertight seal. Once everything is back in place, gently tighten the nuts or screws without over-tightening, which can damage the new parts.

With the faucet reassembled, turn the water supply back on and gradually turn the faucet handle to test for leaks. If you've replaced the parts correctly and ensured everything is tight, your faucet should no longer be leaking. Congratulations, you've fixed your leaky faucet! If it still drips, you may need to disassemble it again to check for any misaligned parts or to ensure everything is seated correctly.