Simple Steps to Repair a Leaky Faucet in Your Home

A leaky faucet in your home is not just annoying to listen to—it can also lead to wasted water and increased utility bills. Luckily, repairing a leaky faucet is a simple DIY task that you can tackle yourself. By following a few straightforward steps, you can fix the leak and prevent any further damage to your plumbing. Read on for a guide on how to repair a leaky faucet in your home.

How To Repair A Leaky Faucet

To start, turn off the water supply to the faucet by locating the shut-off valves under the sink. These valves are typically located on the pipes leading up to the faucet. Turn them clockwise to shut off the water supply.

Next, cover the drain with a towel or rag to prevent any small parts from falling down the drain while you work on the faucet. Then, use a screwdriver to remove the handle of the faucet. Most handles will have a screw that needs to be unscrewed before the handle can be lifted off.

Once the handle is removed, use an adjustable wrench to loosen and remove the packing nut that holds the faucet assembly together. Be sure to keep track of all the components you remove so you can easily put them back together later.

With the packing nut removed, you can now access the valve stem assembly. Remove the assembly by twisting it counterclockwise and lifting it out of the faucet. Inspect the components for any signs of damage, such as worn washers or O-rings.

If you find any damaged parts, take them to your local hardware store to find replacements. Be sure to get the correct size and type of washers or O-rings for your specific faucet model. Once you have the new parts, reassemble the faucet in the reverse order that you took it apart.

Finally, turn the water supply back on and test the faucet to ensure that the leak has been fixed. If the faucet is still leaking, you may need to repeat the process and check for any other damaged components.

In Summary

By following these simple steps, you can easily repair a leaky faucet in your home and save yourself from the hassle of a continuously dripping tap. With a few basic tools and replacement parts, you can tackle this DIY project and enjoy a leak-free faucet once again.

(Image via Adobe)