How To Fix a Leaky Faucet

5/16/2022 (Permalink)

A leaking faucet can lead to water damage or wastage. When you find it in your home, you should act quickly!

How To Repair A Faucet That Is Leaking

A leaking faucet can lead to water damage or wastage. Learn how to fix any type of faucet.

Prepare for Repairs

Start by identifying the faucet design. The most common types include:

• Ball
• Cartridge
• Ceramic Disk
• Compression

Shut off the water supply by turning handles on under-sink pipes clockwise. Insert a plug to prevent components from falling down the drain.

Ball Faucet Repair

Ball-type faucets contain many parts. Obtain a ball faucet replacement kit and follow these steps:

• Unscrew and remove handle
• Remove cap and collar
• Remove faucet cam
• Take out washer and ball
• Remove inlet seals and springs
• Replace O-rings, springs, valve seats, and cam washers

Replacement kits contain specialized tools and parts. Purchase a kit from a home repair store.

Cartridge Faucet Repair

Cartridge faucet handles move up and down to regulate flow and left and right to control temperature. Follow these steps to fix a leaking faucet:

• Remove handle or decorative cap
• Remove retaining clip
• Pull cartridge straight up
• Remove faucet spout
• Replace rubber O-rings

Be sure to coat replacement O-rings with plumber's grease. Leaks typically result from worn-out cartridges or O-rings.

Ceramic Disk Faucet Repair

Ceramic disk faucets are durable designs. Follow these steps to repair this type of faucet:

• Unscrew and remove handle
• Remove eschutcheon cap
• Unscrew and remove disk cylinder
• Pry out neoprene seals and soak in vinegar
• Reuse or replace seals

It may be possible to reuse clean seals. Replace damaged seals to stop a leak.

Compression Faucet Repair

Damaged stem assemblies may cause a compression faucet to drip. Follow these steps to disassemble this faucet:

• Remove handles by prying off decorative caps and unscrewing
• Remove nut
• Pull out stem
• Remove and replace seat washer

Inspect the stem assembly for damage. Unscrew the packing nut to check for damaged O-rings.