A dripping faucet can be annoying, and it can add to your water bill if left unchecked. Additionally, a continual dripping can affect the hardware in your faucet, leading to potentially costly plumbing expenses at a later time because of corrosion and other damage to important parts. Don’t sit around wondering, “Why won’t my faucet stop dripping?” Rather, you should deal with a leak as quickly as possible to limit water waste and to preserve the integrity of your fixtures over time.
How to Fix a Leaky Faucet
There are many different faucets to consider in your home, but the sources of leaks are generally similar. Rubber washers or o-rings are used in plumbing fixtures to hold hardware in place while preventing water from leaking, and the deterioration of these rubber pieces can result in leaks. If your faucet is dripping when it is off, you will need to do the following:
- Verify that the faucet has been turned off correctly. Your leak may simply be due to the fact that someone hasn’t turned the handle completely to the off position.
- Prior to removing anything, turn off the water to the sink or fixture that you will be working on. Follow this by turning on the faucet to allow all remaining water to drain out.
- Place a stopper in the drain to avoid losing any parts as you work.
- You will need to remove the handles in order to access the rubber rings or washers. Remove plastic covers with a screwdriver to access the central screws. Remove the screws and the handles as well.
- Each handle will reveal a packing nut that must be removed with a crescent wrench. When these are removed, you’ll be able to pull the stems out along with rubber parts.
- Unless you have an assortment of o-rings on hand, you will need to take your parts to a hardware store to find replacement pieces in compatible sizes. It will help to know the brand of your faucet if you need help in tracking down the parts.
- At home, you will need to replace the rubber parts at the end of each stem. Return the stems to the appropriate positions. Place and tighten the packing nut. Finally, replace the handles, tightening the screws and returning the plastic covers to their proper positions.
- Turn the water to the area back on to verify that the problem is resolved.
When to Contact a Plumbing Service
While fixing a leaky faucet is a common DIY project, there are times when your own efforts may not work. This is especially true if you have very old plumbing. Rust can eat away at hardware, causing screws to be stripped and creating difficulties in accessing the rubber parts. In some cases, unique structural features in a home can also make it difficult to fix leaky faucets. If you are having trouble with your equipment or if you don’t have time to do the repair, you can contact a plumber in Pike Road, AL, for help. Luquire plumbers are pleased to offer prompt and efficient service, and we are also available for emergency issues. Give us a call to schedule an appointment.
