How to Fix a Leaky Faucet

Fix Your Leaky Faucet: A Simple Guide to Saving Water and Money

Hey there! Mike from Mike Stern Plumbing here in Chatsworth, CA. Today, we're tackling a common but often overlooked issue: the leaky faucet. A dripping faucet might seem like a minor nuisance, but trust me, it can waste a ton of water and money over time. Let’s dive into why it’s important to fix that pesky drip and how you can do it yourself!

Why Fixing a Leaky Faucet is Important

The Cost of a Dripping Faucet

• A faucet that drips once per second can waste over 2,000 gallons of water a year.
• This small drip can significantly increase your water bill.
• Imagine watching your money go down the drain—literally. Not cool, right?

Environmental Impact

• A leaking faucet is harmful to the environment.
• Water conservation is crucial, especially in drought-prone areas like California.
• Fixing leaks helps save this precious resource, benefiting both your wallet and the planet.

Common Causes of Faucet Leaks

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of why faucets leak. Here are the most common culprits:

Worn Seals and Gaskets

Faucets have various seals and gaskets that can wear out over time. These components are crucial for keeping water where it’s supposed to be.

Loose Screws and Connections

Over time, screws, nuts, and bolts can loosen, leading to leaks. If your faucet handle wobbles, this might be your issue.

Corroded O-Rings

O-rings are small but mighty seals in cartridge faucets. When they corrode or wear out, leaks are inevitable.

Washer Problems

Washers provide seals for critical parts of the faucet. If they’re worn out or the wrong size, they can cause leaks.

Corroded Valve Seats

The valve seat connects the faucet to the spout. If it’s corroded, you’ll see leaks from the spout.

Water Pressure Issues

Sometimes, the culprit isn’t the faucet itself but your home’s water pressure. Irregular drips can be a sign of pressure problems.

Types of Faucets and Their Specific Issues

Different types of faucets have different issues. Here’s a quick rundown:

Single-Handle Faucets

These are easy to use but can be tricky to fix due to their compact design.

Double-Handle Faucets

With separate handles for hot and cold, these are straightforward but have more parts that can wear out.

Cartridge Faucets

Common in bathrooms, these have cartridges that can wear out over time.

Ball Faucets

Found in kitchens, these use a ball joint to control water flow. They’re durable but have more moving parts that can fail.

Compression Washer Faucets

The oldest type, using rubber washers. These are reliable but prone to wear.

Disc Faucets

The newest and most durable type, using a single lever to control water flow.

Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing a Leaky Faucet

Ready to get your hands dirty? Here’s a step-by-step guide to fixing that leak:

Deactivate the Water Supply

First things first: turn off the water supply. Look for shutoff valves under the sink and turn them clockwise. No shutoff valves? Turn off the main water supply.

Disassemble the Faucet Handles

Use a flathead screwdriver to remove the caps on top of the handle, revealing handle screws. Unscrew these and pull the handles off.

Detach the Valve Stem

Remove the inner valve stem or cartridge. Compression faucets have brass stems that unscrew, while cartridge faucets can be pulled straight out.

Inspect and Identify the Faulty Parts

Check rubber washers, O-rings, and seals for damage. These are usually the culprits behind leaks.

Replace Damaged Parts

Head to your local hardware store with the old parts and get exact replacements.

Sanitize the Valve Body

Clean the valve body with white vinegar to remove mineral buildup. This helps ensure a tight seal.

Reassemble the Faucet

Put everything back together in reverse order. Turn the water supply back on and check for leaks.

Preventive Maintenance Tips

To keep your faucets in tip-top shape, follow these tips:

Regular Inspections

Check your faucets regularly for signs of wear and tear.

Proper Installation

Make sure all parts are installed correctly to prevent leaks.

Using Quality Parts

Invest in high-quality parts to extend the life of your faucet.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

Sometimes, DIY fixes aren’t enough. Here’s when to call in the pros:

Complex Leaks

If the leak is coming from a hard-to-reach place or involves multiple parts, it’s best to call a professional.

Persistent Issues

If you’ve tried fixing the leak but it keeps coming back, it’s time for expert help.

Upgrading to a New Faucet

Thinking of a faucet upgrade? We can help with that too.

Conclusion

Fixing a leaky faucet might seem daunting, but with the right tools and a bit of patience, you can do it yourself and save a lot of money. However, if you’re ever in doubt or the problem is too complex, don’t hesitate to call Mike Stern Plumbing. We’re here to help with all your plumbing needs!

Need help with a plumbing problem? Call Mike Stern Plumbing in Chatsworth, CA. We're here for you!

‍For more plumbing tips and solutions, check out our other blogs: Efficient Plumbing Solutions: Pro Tips for Homeowners.