How to Fix a Leaky Faucet

There are few things more annoying than a leaky faucet. It’s a constant reminder that you’re wasting water, plus the drip, drip, dripping sound is beyond irritating. Don’t put up with it—fix it! Repairing a leaky faucet is an easy and inexpensive project. The key is in knowing how to fix your particular type of faucet. In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of fixing a leaky faucet, ensuring that you save water and regain your peace of mind.

Identify the Type of Faucet:

Before you start the repair, it's important to determine the type of faucet you have. There are four common types: compression faucets, cartridge faucets, ball faucets, and ceramic disk faucets. Each type has its own unique mechanism and requires a slightly different approach to fixing leaks.

Turn Off the Water Supply:

Before you start working on the faucet, turn off the water supply to avoid any accidental flooding or water damage. Most faucets have a shutoff valve located under the sink. Turn it clockwise to shut off the water.

Disassemble the Faucet:

Carefully remove the handle of the faucet using a screwdriver or an Allen wrench, depending on the type of handle. Once the handle is removed, you'll have access to the cartridge or the compression stem assembly.

Replace the Cartridge or Washer:

For cartridge and ceramic disk faucets, you'll need to replace the cartridge. Remove the old cartridge by following the manufacturer's instructions and insert the new one. If you have a compression faucet, you'll need to replace the washer. Remove the old washer and replace it with a new one of the same size.

Reassemble and Test:

After replacing the faulty component, reassemble the faucet in the reverse order of disassembly. Make sure all the parts are properly tightened. Once reassembled, turn on the water supply and check for any leaks. If the problem persists or you want to make sure there are no other issues, call a professional here at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Marietta!