steps on how to fix a leaky faucet

With the nuisance that a leaky faucet brings, and the ridiculously high costs of plumbing works, it is imperative you learn how to fix a leaky faucet by yourself. Gone are the days where you have to call up a plumber and stare wide-eyed upon the receipt of a billing. All you have to do is follow these simple and easy to understand steps in fixing a leaky faucet.

For as long as you have the right tools and materials, learning how to fix a leaky faucet can be very easy. The basic materials and tools that you'll need will comprise mainly of a new washer (get one that is suited to the type of faucet you have at home), some rags, a wrench, and a screwdriver.

But before you start pulling your faucet apart, turn off the main water supply first. This can be done by turning the shutoff or control valve counter-clockwise (off). If you don't know where your control valve is, you can try looking under the sink and tracing the pipes.

In addition to that, plug up the drain using some rags. The worst thing that can possibly happen is when small parts like screws and washers go down the drain.

Once you have accomplished that, you can start with the process of fixing the leaky faucet. But be informed that these steps can be applied only to conventional faucets. Most unconventional faucets differ from one another depending on type and brand and you might need specific repair kits for it.

1. Locate a nut where the faucet stem is connected to the water pipe below the handle. Using your wrench, twist the nut loose (counter-clockwise) so that you can remove it. Also turn the handle counterclockwise to set it off completely.

2. After you have removed the handle, you can then see a rubber-like washer that is probably very old, torn, dilapidated, and held down by a screw. This could be the reason why your faucet is leaking. Replace the old washer. Undo the old washer's screws using your screwdriver and screw on a new washer. Remember that this new washer should be just of the same size with the old washer, to ensure compatibility and efficiency. Tighten the screws in order to secure the new washer in position.

3. Put everything back into its original place. Return the faucet handle (in clockwise direction this time), and screw the stem nut back into its original place.

4. After that, you can do the checking. Turn the water supply on and check whether the faucet still leaks. If it still leaks, you should probably tighten the screws more. Or, it could be that the faucet itself is defective, and not the washer. And if you think you really need it, seek professional help. Admit defeat and call a plumber.

And there they are - easy to follow and simple steps that will guide you about how to fix a leaky faucet. Now you can do it by yourself! There's no need for you to call a plumber, or even your handy neighbor to help you around a leaky faucet. By doing it yourself, you free yourself from irritating dripping sounds, nasty sink stains brought upon by long-standing drips, and water wastage due to constant dripping. Put these steps close to your heart and you will never be in distress again.

Find out more how to fix a leaky faucet. All you need is fix a leaky faucet guide!

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steps on how to fix a leaky faucet
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