learn how to fix a leaky faucet

By: Kaye Fretz

With the nuisance that a leaky faucet brings, and the ridiculously high costs of plumbing works, it is imperative you learn how to fix a leaky faucet by yourself. Gone are the days where you have to call up a plumber and stare wide-eyed upon the receipt of a billing. All you have to do is follow these simple and easy to understand steps in fixing a leaky faucet.

Learning how to fix a leaky faucet can be very easy. All you need are the right tools and materials. For this specific project, you will be needing a new washer (preferably the one that suits the faucet that you have at home), some rags, a wrench and a screwdriver (Philipps and flathead, depending on the screws).

There are some things you should do before you start pulling your faucet apart. First, you should shut off the main water supply by shutting off the control valve. This can be found somewhere along the pipes under the sink. Turn the level or handle of the valve counter clockwise to switch it off.

Other than that, you also have to plug up the drain with the use of rags. By doing so, you are preventing small parts like washer and screws to go down the drain.

After that is done, you can then begin fixing the leaky faucet. But, keep in mind that these steps are applicable only to conventional faucets. Unconventional faucets might be more complicated and might require you specific repair kits. There are no specific steps since it could vary with every type of faucet you have.

1. Locate a nut where the faucet stem is connected to the water pipe below the handle. Using your wrench, twist the nut loose (counter-clockwise) so that you can remove it. Also turn the handle counterclockwise to set it off completely.

2. After you have removed the handle, you can then see a rubber-like washer that is probably very old, torn, dilapidated, and held down by a screw. This could be the reason why your faucet is leaking. Replace the old washer. Undo the old washer's screws using your screwdriver and screw on a new washer. Remember that this new washer should be just of the same size with the old washer, to ensure compatibility and efficiency. Tighten the screws in order to secure the new washer in position.

3. Reassemble everything. Replace the faucet handle (turn it clockwise), and tighten back the stem nut to its original location.

4. Do the checking. Turn the water back on and see if the faucet still leaks. If it still is, either you need to screw things more tightly or, you need to buy a new faucet rather than a new washer. And if all else fails, seek professional help and call a plumber.

So, there you have it. The easiest and simplest ways that will teach you how to fix a leaky faucet. By following these steps, you may never have to call another plumber again. You can say goodbye to ugly sink stains caused by long-standing drips, annoying dripping noises, and water wastage. All it takes is for you to learn these uncomplicated steps and you will never be helpless in dealing with a leaky faucet in your lifetime ever again.