A leaky faucet is one of those small problems that can drive you crazy. The constant drip-drip-drip is annoying, wastes water, and increases your water bill. But don’t worry! Fixing a leaky faucet is something you can do yourself in just 10 minutes. With a few basic tools and these easy steps, you can stop that leak in no time.
At MyBoisePlumbers, we believe in helping you save time and money. You don’t always need a plumber to fix small issues like a leaky faucet. So, let’s get started and fix that drip!
Why Should You Fix a Leaky Faucet?
Before we jump into fixing the faucet, let’s take a moment to understand why it’s so important.
- Save Water: A leaky faucet wastes water, which can add up fast. Even one drop per second adds 3,000 gallons of wasted water every year. That’s a lot!
- Lower Your Bills: Wasting water means wasting money. Fixing the leak helps you lower your water bill.
- Prevent Damage: If you ignore a leak, it could cause water damage to your sink, faucet, and even your floor. Fixing it right away prevents bigger problems later.
What You’ll Need to Fix the Faucet
Before you start, make sure you have everything you need:
- Adjustable Wrench: To loosen nuts and bolts.
- Flathead or Phillips Screwdriver: Depending on the screws on your faucet.
- Replacement Parts: Rubber washers, O-rings, or cartridges. These are usually the parts that cause the leak.
- Plumber’s Tape: This helps seal joints if needed.
You can find all these tools at any local hardware store. Grab them, and you’re ready to go.
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
First, you must stop the water from flowing. This is the most important step to avoid a mess.
- Find the Shut-off Valves: Look under your sink. You’ll see two valves—one for hot water and one for cold water. Turn both valves clockwise to shut off the water.
- Turn On the Faucet: After turning off the valves, turn the faucet on to let any leftover water drain out. This step ensures there’s no water left when you start working.
Step 2: Plug the Drain
This step is simple but crucial. You don’t want to lose any tiny parts like screws or washers down the drain.
- Use a Sink Plug or Cloth: Plug the drain with a sink plug or a clean cloth. This will stop any parts from falling into the drain while you work.
Step 3: Remove the Faucet Handle
Now, we’re going to take off the faucet handle so we can see the parts inside.
- Look for the Screw: Most faucet handles are held on with a screw. Some faucets hide the screw under a small decorative cap. Use your screwdriver to remove the screw.
- Take Off the Handle: Once the screw is out, carefully pull the handle off. If it’s stuck, wiggle it gently.
Step 4: Check the Valve or Cartridge
With the handle off, you’ll see the valve or cartridge. This is the part that’s usually causing the leak.
- Check for Damage: Look closely at the rubber washers or O-rings inside the valve or cartridge. If they look worn out, cracked, or hard, it’s time to replace them.
- Remove the Valve or Cartridge: Use your wrench to carefully remove the old valve or cartridge. Be careful not to damage anything while removing it.
Step 5: Replace the Damaged Parts
Now that you’ve found the problem, it’s time to fix it.
- Get New Parts: Take the old parts with you to the hardware store to make sure you buy the right replacement parts.
- Install the New Parts: Put the new valve, cartridge, or washer in place, matching it exactly to the old one. Make sure it fits snugly.
Step 6: Reassemble the Faucet
Once the new parts are in, it’s time to put everything back together.
- Put the Handle Back On: Place the handle back on the faucet. Line up the screw holes and tighten the screw with your screwdriver. Don’t over-tighten—it could damage the faucet.
- Check for Any Loose Parts: Before moving on, make sure everything is secure and tight.
Step 7: Turn the Water Back On
Now, it’s time to turn the water back on and test your work.
- Open the Valves: Slowly turn the hot and cold water valves back on. Turn them counterclockwise.
- Test the Faucet: Turn the faucet handle to check if the leak is gone. Let the water run for a minute to make sure everything works.
Step 8: What to Do If the Leak Still Happens
Sometimes, a leaky faucet might not fix right away. Here’s what you can do if you still see a leak.
- Check for Other Problems: If the faucet still leaks, look at the faucet body or the spout. Sometimes, the leak could come from cracks or loose parts in these areas.
- Use Plumber’s Tape: If the threads on the faucet are loose, wrap plumber’s tape around them. This can help seal any gaps.
- Call a Professional: If you’ve replaced the parts and the leak continues, it might be time to call a plumber. Contact MyBoisePlumbers for help.
Conclusion: You Did It!
Congratulations! You’ve just fixed your leaky faucet in 10 minutes or less. Not only have you saved water and money, but you’ve also learned a useful skill.
If the leak was stubborn or if you’d rather leave the job to a pro, don’t hesitate to call MyBoisePlumbers. We can handle any plumbing issue, big or small, quickly and professionally.
Need Help with Plumbing?
At MyBoisePlumbers, we’re here for all your plumbing needs. Whether you want to fix a leaky faucet, unclog a drain, or fix a burst pipe, our team is just a call away. Contact us today for fast, reliable service!
