A leaky faucet starts with a minor drip but could turn into an expensive emergency if left unaddressed. With just a few steps, every homeowner could fix a leaky faucet. Here’s how.
- Shut off the water.
The very first step is to shut off the water supply by twisting the valve under the sink. If you can’t find individual shutoff valves under the sink, then shut off the water supply for the house. Then, turn on the faucet to allow the remaining water in the line to empty into the sink. Once all the water has cleared, insert a sink stopper or use a towel to cover the sink opening and prevent tools from falling down the drain.
- Remove the handle.
The process of removing the faucet handle will depend on the faucet type. Identify the type of faucet you have and follow manufacturer instructions for removing it. You may need a hex key, Allen wrench, or a Phillips head screwdriver.
- Remove the cartridge.
Most two-handled kitchen and bathroom faucet styles have a faucet cartridge or faucet stem. Use a wrench to loosen the packing nut in the handle assembly, remove it, and set aside. Then, gently pull the part straight up and remove from the assembly.
- Install the new cartridge.
To find the right replacement part, consult the faucet manufacturer’s handbook to find the model number. You could also take the old cartridge or stem part to the hardware store so the associate could identify the right cartridge.
Once you’ve got the new cartridge, use a cloth to clean and dry the parts and area around the handle. Then replace any worn or damaged O-rings around the housing and insert the new cartridge stem.
- Reattach the faucet handle.
After installing the new cartridge or stem, reattach the faucet handle and turn the water line back on. Clean the sink of any debris and check the faucet for any drips and to ensure it’s working properly. Run both cold and hot water through the faucet for a few minutes to ensure the aerator isn’t clogged.
For professional plumbing assistance, call Blue Apple!