How to Fix a Leaky Faucet
A leaky faucet can be a nuisance. The constant dripping noise might drive you crazy—and the higher water bill might be, too! Fortunately, most leaky faucets have a simple solution.
What are the common causes of a leaky faucet?
Worn-out parts are the most common cause of leaky faucets. If the leak is at the base of the faucet, it could be corrosion of the valve seat. Water tends to pool at the bottom of the faucet, causing water to pool around the valve seat and leading to rust. If the leak is near the handle, it could be a loose or worn O-ring, which keeps the handle in place.
There are also seals within the faucet that keep water where it belongs and the cartridge, which regulates the amount of water flowing through the faucet. Both can degrade over time, requiring replacement.
Sometimes, leaky faucets can be caused by more complex issues, like problems with your water pressure. If that’s the case, you may want to call a plumber (like Aspen Plumbing!).
What problems can a leaky faucet cause?
Leaky faucets can lead to some real problems. You may have a higher water bill, water damage, mold growth, or rust. The moisture can also attract pests like roaches and drain flies. These problems can be much harder to fix than the leaky faucet!
How do I fix a leaky faucet?
The cause of the leak—and the faucet that’s leaking—will determine the fix. In general, there are a few steps you’ll need to take to fix your leaky faucet.
Shut off the water.
No matter what, you’ll need to turn off the water. Your sink may have its own water supply. If it doesn’t, turn off your home’s entire water supply.
Remove the faucet handle.
Each faucet is different, but in most cases, you’ll need to remove a screw. The screw may be behind the handle, requiring a hex key or Allen wrench to remove. It may also be located under a top screw cover, which you’ll need to remove. Beneath that should be a screw that you can remove with a flat or Phillips head screwdriver, depending on the screw. From there, you should be able to pull the handle off.
Inspect the faucet.
Do you notice any parts that are worn out? Do you see rust or other visible damage? If so, this is likely the culprit.
Remove and replace the broken part.
You should be able to find replacement parts at your local hardware store. Most pieces can be removed easily without further unscrewing. The only piece you may need a tool to remove is the cartridge, which is located at the base of the faucet. You may need a wrench to unscrew the packing nut, allowing you to pull the cartridge straight out and place the new one.
How do I prevent a leaky faucet?
There are a few ways to prevent leaky faucets or catch them before they become expensive problems:
Check your faucet regularly for rust or damage. It only takes a few minutes to remove the handle and take a peek inside!
Clean your faucet, removing any mineral buildup that can cause damage.
Keep the area around your faucet dry.
Replace broken or degrading parts as soon as possible. The sooner you fix them, the less damage you’ll have!
Need help with a leaky faucet? Aspen Plumbing is here to help.
We offer repairs for leaky faucets for people in Fort Collins, Colorado, and surrounding areas. Don’t stress about fixing a leaky faucet yourself! Our team can get the job done in no time. Reach out today to schedule your appointment.
