Dealing with a leaky faucet can be frustrating, not to mention wasteful. You can fix a leaky faucet in just 5 minutes without needing to call a plumber. This simple guide will help you tackle this common household issue quickly and easily.
With a few basic tools and straightforward steps, you can save both time and money. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to restore your faucet to perfect working condition.
1. Turn off the water supply
To begin fixing your leaky faucet, you need to turn off the water supply. Look under the sink for the shut-off valves, usually located on the hot and cold water lines.
Turn both valves clockwise until they stop. If you can’t find these valves, you might need to turn off the main water supply for your home.
Make sure all faucets in the house are turned off to relieve any pressure. This will make your repair process easier and less messy.
2. Remove the faucet handle
To remove the faucet handle, start by locating the screw. It’s often hidden under a decorative cap, which you can pop off using a flathead screwdriver.
Once you find the screw, use an appropriate screwdriver to loosen it. After removing the screw, gently pull the handle straight up to detach it from the faucet.
If the handle is stuck, a gentle wiggle can help. Be careful not to force it, as this could damage the faucet.
3. Replace the washer or O-ring
To fix your leaky faucet, start by identifying the type of faucet you have. Most often, replacing the washer or O-ring will do the trick.
Turn off the water supply and disassemble the faucet carefully. Take out the old washer or O-ring; pay attention to its size and shape for easy replacement.
Visit a hardware store with the old part to find an exact match. Once you have the new washer or O-ring, install it by reversing the disassembly steps.
Reassemble the faucet and turn the water supply back on. Check for leaks to see if the issue is resolved.
4. Reassemble the faucet parts
Once you have replaced any worn-out components, it’s time to put everything back together. Start by carefully sliding the handle back onto the faucet.
Make sure it fits snugly over the stem. Then, secure it with the screw you removed earlier.
Next, reattach any decorative caps or covers if your faucet has them. Check that everything is aligned properly before tightening any screws fully.
Finally, turn the water supply back on, and test the faucet to ensure it’s functioning properly.
5. Turn the water supply back on
After you’ve completed the repair, it’s time to turn the water supply back on. Locate the shut-off valve under the sink or where the water line connects.
Slowly rotate the valve counterclockwise until it’s fully open. Keep an eye on the faucet as you do this to check for any leaks.
If everything looks good, you’ve successfully fixed your leaky faucet! Enjoy your drip-free sink.
