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Common House Repair: Fixing a Leaky Faucet

Homeownership comes with its fair share of maintenance and repairs. While for more complicated projects you’ll want to leave it to the pros, there’s a fair amount of small repairs and projects that you can do with just a few tools and some patience.

Fixing a Leaky Faucet

Fixing a Leaky Faucet

Difficulty: (Easy)

Time Needed: (30-60 minutes)

Drip Drip Drip

A leaky faucet is not only annoying but can also waste a significant amount of water over time. The cause is often a worn-out washer or O-ring, which are inexpensive and easy to replace.

Tools Needed:

Adjustable wrench

Screwdriver

Replacement washers/O-rings

Step by Step

  1. Turn Off the Water Supply: Look under the sink for the shutoff valves. Turn the valves clockwise to shut off the water. If there are no shutoff valves, turn off the main water supply for your house.
  2. Plug the Sink Drain: Use a sink plug or a rag to prevent small parts from falling down the drain.
  3. Remove the Faucet Handle: Use a screwdriver to remove the screw holding the faucet handle in place. The screw might be under a decorative cap that can be pried off with a flathead screwdriver.
  4. Disassemble the Faucet: Depending on your faucet type, you may need to unscrew additional parts. Use an adjustable wrench or pliers to carefully remove the packing nut. Take note of how everything is assembled so you can reassemble it later.
  5. Inspect the Washer/O-Ring: Look for the washer or O-ring inside the valve seat. If it looks worn or damaged, this is likely the cause of the leak.
  6. Replace the Washer/O-Ring: Take the old washer/O-ring to the hardware store to find an exact match. Install the new washer/O-ring in the same position.
  7. Reassemble the Faucet: Carefully reassemble the faucet in the reverse order you disassembled it. Make sure each part is securely in place.
  8. Turn the Water Supply Back On: Slowly turn the water supply back on and check for leaks. If everything is dry, the repair is successful.

Tips:

  • Take pictures of each step as you disassemble the faucet. This will help you remember how to put it back together.
  • If you have trouble removing any parts, try applying a bit of penetrating oil and waiting a few minutes before trying again.