How To Repair A Leaking Bathroom Sink Faucet

How to Repair a Leaking Bathroom Sink Faucet

A leaking bathroom sink faucet can be a nuisance, wasting water and potentially causing damage. Fortunately, repairing a leaking faucet is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few steps.

Materials you'll need:

Adjustable wrench
Screwdriver
Replacement washer or O-ring (if necessary)
Plumber's putty (optional)

Step 1: Turn off the water supply

Locate the shut-off valves under the sink and turn them clockwise to stop the flow of water.

Step 2: Disassemble the faucet

Using the adjustable wrench, remove the aerator (if present) and then the handle. Next, use a screwdriver to remove the packing nut and stem.

Step 3: Inspect the washer or O-ring

Once the stem is removed, inspect the washer or O-ring located at the bottom. If it is worn or damaged, replace it.

Step 4: Replace the stem and packing nut

Insert the new washer or O-ring into the stem and reattach the packing nut. Tighten the packing nut until the stem is snug but not overtightened.

Step 5: Reassemble the faucet

Reassemble the faucet in reverse order of disassembly: the stem, the handle, and then the aerator.

Step 6: Turn on the water and check for leaks

Turn on the shut-off valves and check for any leaks. If you notice a leak, tighten the packing nut a little more.

Additional tips:

If the faucet is still leaking after replacing the washer or O-ring, it may be necessary to replace the entire stem assembly.
Before reassembling the faucet, apply plumber's putty to the threads of the stem to help create a watertight seal.
If you are uncomfortable performing this repair yourself, contact a licensed plumber.

With a little effort and the right tools, you can easily repair a leaking bathroom sink faucet and restore it to proper working order.