How to Fix a Leaky Faucet

To take proactive measures and prevent any spillage from the faucet, it is crucial to completely stop the water flow. One possible way in which this can be achieved would involve manipulating a knob present underneath your sink by adhering to traditional right-hand rotational patterns until you’ve reached the endpoint where all activity has ceased.

• Open the faucet to release any remaining water pressure.
• Place a drain stopper or plunger over the drain to prevent small parts from falling in.

Fixing a Compression Faucet

Taking apart the faucet:

1. Remove the faucet handles by unscrewing the decorative caps and using a screwdriver to remove the handle screws.
2. Use an adjustable wrench to unscrew the packing nut and expose the stem.
3. Unscrew the stem and remove it from the faucet body.

Replacing the washer

Examine the stem for a worn or damaged washer. To replace the old washer with a new one, one must use a screwdriver. Lubricate your new appliance using just enough plumber’s grease to extend its lifespan and ensure an improved seal.

Putting the faucet back together:

• Reinsert the stem into the faucet body and screw it back into place.
• Tighten the packing nut with the adjustable wrench.
• Reattach the faucet handles by screwing in the handle screws and replacing the decorative caps.

Fixing a Ball Faucet

Taking apart the faucet:

1. Remove the handle by unscrewing the set screw and lifting it off.
2. Use an adjustable wrench to remove the cap and collar.
3. Remove the ball, cam, and cam washer.

Replacing parts:

1. Inspect the O-rings, springs, and seals for signs of wear or damage. Replace any worn or damaged parts.
2. Apply a small amount of plumber’s grease to the new O-rings, springs, and seals to help them seal better and last longer.

 Putting the faucet back together:

1. Reinstall the ball, cam, and cam washer.
2. Replace the cap and collar using the adjustable wrench.
3. Reattach the handle by screwing in the set screw.

Fixing a Cartridge Faucet

Taking apart the faucet:

1. Remove the handle by unscrewing the set screw and lifting it off.
2. Use an adjustable wrench to remove the retaining nut.
3. Pull out the cartridge.

Replacing the cartridge:

1. Inspect the cartridge for signs of wear or damage. Replace it with a new one if needed.
2. Apply a small amount of plumber’s grease to the new cartridge to help it seal better and last longer.

Assembling the faucet again:

1. Reinsert the cartridge into the faucet body.
2. Replace the retaining nut using the adjustable wrench.
3. Reattach the handle by screwing in the set screw.

Fixing a Ceramic Disc Faucet

Taking apart the faucet:

1. Remove the handle by unscrewing the set screw and lifting it off.
2. Use an adjustable wrench to remove the retaining nut.
3. Remove the ceramic disc assembly.

Replacing the ceramic disc:

1. Inspect the ceramic discs for signs of wear or damage. If necessary, substitute them with fresh ones.
2. Apply a small amount of plumber’s grease to the new ceramic discs to help them seal better and last longer.

Putting the faucet back together.

1. Reinstall the ceramic disc assembly.
2. Replace the retaining nut using the adjustable wrench.
3. Reattach the handle by screwing in the set screw.

Preventing Future Leaks

Regular maintenance can help prevent future leaks:

• Inspect your faucets for signs of wear or damage periodically.
• Replace worn or damaged parts as needed.
• Clean mineral deposits from your faucet aerators to maintain proper water flow.