A DIY home repair can be
quick and easy if you know what you are doing. Fixing a leak in your faucet is
something you can do on your own to save you some money. Follow this 3-step
process and you can fix that pesky leak completely on your own. The basic idea
is simple: disassemble, repair, reassemble.
First, make sure you have the following:
- Small rag or bowl
- Wrench
- Duct tape
- Extra washers and O-rings
1.
Disassemble: Begin
by checking to see if the faucet is completely off. The last thing you want is
for water to spray at you while you are trying to fix it. There are shut off
valves underneath the sink – it is important to turn them off because it cuts
off the water supply from the main line. You will also want to cover up the
opening to the drain with a rag or place a bowl underneath so you don’t
accidentally lose any parts down there.
Pad
your wrench with a strip of duct tape so you do not scratch the faucet while
taking it apart. As you disassemble the faucet, it is important to remember the
order in which you remove the parts; you will have to put them back in the same
order. You should first remove the handle,
and then the escutcheon,
cartridge,
threaded
spindle, and disc.
2.
Repair: If
you see mineral deposits on any of the pieces soften them by soaking them in
vinegar, and then use a cloth to clean them. Make sure to also clean out the aerator.
A clogged aerator causes the water to flow slowly. It is also important to take
notice where the leak is coming from. Check all of the seals, and make sure
that all the parts fit together nicely.
Next,
inspect the washers
and O-rings.
Ill-fitting washers and O-rings are a common reason for a leak. Replace them
with the extra ones you have if needed. After you have done this, you can begin
to reassemble the faucet.
3.
Reassemble:
Put the faucet back together in the same order you took it apart. It may help
to lay them out in the order that you took them off, so this process is easier.
Also don’t forget to turn the water supply valve back on again.
Now the process is
complete and your leaky faucet is fixed! If you need any additional help with
home repairs, do not hesitate to contact a licensed and insured plumber.
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