A simple annoyance can build up and become a much bigger concern when it’s not fixed immediately; in this case, it’s a leaky faucet. The sound of a faucet dripping can be annoying and distracting. Still, the possible water damage from the continuous water flow from an unchecked faucet leak can be astronomical, not to mention the increase in your water bill.
There are several types of faucets that you might encounter when dealing with faucet repair, such as:
- Ball faucets
- Cartridge faucets
- Disc faucets
- Compression faucets
The way to tell them apart can be from the sink faucet handle; if it is a single-handle faucet, it may be a ball faucet, disk faucet, or cartridge faucet. If the faucet parts are separate, with handles/controls on either side of the spout, then it is likely a double-handle compression faucet, although there are also two-handled cartridge types.
The main difference between these faucet types is whether they have rubber washers or a washerless valve system. For example, Ceramic disks control the hot and cold water supply in a disk faucet, mixing it in the cartridge within the faucet body.
Manufacturers design these faucet types for kitchen sink fixtures, bathroom sinks, and bathtub faucets. Knowing how to fix a leaky faucet will help reduce unnecessary trips to the hardware store. You’ll want the right faucet repair kit, which may include a retaining clip, packing nut, gaskets, O-rings, and tools like an Allen wrench or pliers.
Over time, wear and corrosion can degrade washers and gaskets in your faucet, leading to leaks from handles, water leaks, or mineral buildup around the stopper or shutoff valve. As you are looking to replace parts or install a new faucet, understanding how to fix a dripping faucet starts with a solid step-by-step approach and identifying the exact problem area.
Fixing the Faucet On Your Own
If you aim to do this on your own, be sure to discover the cause of the leak before making any moves. While fixing it on your own is possible, you are encouraged to hire a professional to help you with your plumbing matters, particularly leaky faucets, due to the complicated process.
This DIY home improvement project begins with a tool-gathering process. Here is what you’ll need:
- Hex or Allen wrench
- Screwdrivers – flat-head screwdriver and Phillips screwdriver
- Pliers – needle-nose pliers may be the most beneficial in this case, when grabbing small parts
- Silicone grease or plumbers’ grease
- Utility Knife
- Adjustable wrench
- Replacement faucet ball (should be a metal one)
- Brand-specific repair kit – new cartridges, specific faucet parts, handle screws, aerator, decorative cap or other brand-specific replacement parts
Step 1: Turn off the Water Supply
Before starting any faucet repair, shutting off the supply valve under the sink is crucial to avoid unexpected water flow or water damage. This simple step creates a safe, dry workspace for addressing the faucet leak. Locate and turn off the shutoff valve, then activate the sink faucet to release any remaining water pressure and clear the lines of excess water. Once the water has stopped flowing, you’re ready to begin disassembling the faucet.
Step 2: Remove the Faucet Handle
The next step in fixing a faucet leak is removing the handle, giving you access to the internal components where the leak may occur. Begin by loosening the set screw with an Allen wrench or screwdriver. Once loosened, carefully lift off the handle. If it’s difficult to remove, gently wiggle it or use a handle puller. After removing the handle, unscrew the cap using a cloth to protect the finish. You’ll then remove the cam assembly—typically a single unit that includes both the plastic cam and cam washer, followed by the rotary ball underneath.
Step 3: Find the Source of the Leak
After removing the faucet handle, inspect the internal components—such as the O-ring, washer, and cam assembly—to locate the source of the faucet leak. Look for signs of wear, cracking, or misshapenness. If any part, especially plastic components, appears brittle or damaged, it’s best to replace it. Plastic parts often have a shorter lifespan and may only last about a year, so preemptive replacement can help you avoid future leaks and faucet repair work down the line.
Step 4: Replace Broken and Worn Parts
Once you’ve identified which component is causing the faucet leak, it’s time to remove and replace the worn part, using a screwdriver to extract the rubber seats from the faucet body. Then, remove the springs using the same tool, gently twisting if necessary to free them. Next, remove the spout and the worn O-rings; if they’re stuck, use a utility knife to cut them loose. Apply a thin layer of silicone grease inside the faucet, then install new O-rings. Be careful not to overapply the grease. Reinsert the new springs into place first, followed by the rubber seats. Press each component firmly to ensure a proper seal and restore smooth water flow.
Step 5: Reassemble the Faucet and Turn Back On the Water
Once all the new parts are in place, it’s time to reassemble the sink faucet. Start by placing the ball back into the faucet body, ensuring its tab securely fits into the corresponding notch. Then, reinstall the cam assembly and screw the cap back on tightly. Reattach the faucet handle, secure it with the setscrew, and replace the decorative cap if needed. Finally, turn the shutoff valve back on to restore water flow, and check for any remaining faucet leaks. Your faucet should be ready to go!
Tips to Prevent Faucet Leaks
Preventing a faucet leak conserves water and extends the life of your sink faucet, whether in the kitchen sink, bathroom sink, or bathtub faucet. A proactive approach to faucet repair and routine care can stop minor issues from becoming costly. Use the following tips to keep your faucets drip-free:
Inspect Regularly
Homeowners should inspect their faucets every three to six months. Look for signs of wear, such as a dripping faucet, corrosion, or water leaks beneath the sink. Check the faucet handle and surrounding areas, including under the sink, for signs of moisture or damage.
Clean and Maintain Your Faucet
Clean your faucets with a soft cloth and gentle cleaner to prevent mineral buildup. Avoid harsh chemicals that can degrade seals or finishes. Remove and clean the aerator regularly to maintain proper water flow. Preventing mineral buildup is especially important in regions with hard water, where deposits can affect plumbing and appliances.
Address Minor Issues Promptly
Plumbers or homeowners can often tighten loose parts like packing nuts or handle screws to fix minor drips. Replacing worn-out washers, O-rings, or seals using a faucet repair kit can prevent more serious leaks. These quick fixes are key to knowing how to fix a leaky faucet.
Control Water Pressure
Excessively high water pressure puts stress on your plumbing and can accelerate wear. Ideal pressure is between 40 and 60 psi. If yours is higher, install a pressure regulator. Also, avoid setting hot water temperatures too high, as rapid temperature changes can affect the valve system and components inside your faucet.
Know When to Call the Professionals
Homeowners cannot fix every faucet issue with a step-by-step DIY repair; some problems require professional plumbing services. If your faucet leaks from the handle, continues to drip after repairs, or you’re dealing with low water flow or persistent water stains under the sink, it’s time to call in expert help.
At A-1 Sewer & Septic Service, our licensed plumbers offer reliable faucet repair, leak detection, and plumbing services across Kansas City. We’re here for you whether you need help with a double-handle faucet, a supply valve, or a complete new faucet installation.
How The Professional Plumbers at A-1 Can Help
When a plumber comes to your location, they will first determine the cause of the leak and disassemble the faucet to assess the damage. Next, they will determine whether or not parts need to be fixed or entirely replaced. Once they have done this, a skilled Kansas City plumber will return your faucet to working order.
If you are concerned that you cannot fix your drain alone, call your neighborhood serviceman at A-1 Sewer & Septic Service Inc. for an experienced Kansas City plumber who can help you! Our team quickly responds and can repair your leaky faucet promptly and efficiently. Contact us today to discuss your plumbing needs; we are ready to help!