How To Repair A Leaking Faucet In The Bathroom

How to Repair a Leaking Faucet in the Bathroom

A leaking faucet can be a common household problem, but it is also one that can be easily repaired with the right tools and a little know-how. Follow these steps to fix a leaky faucet in your bathroom.

Identify the Type of Faucet

There are two main types of faucets: compression faucets and cartridge faucets. Compression faucets have a washer that seals against the seat, while cartridge faucets have a cartridge that controls the flow of water. To identify the type of faucet you have, look at the handle. If the handle has a screw on top, you have a compression faucet. If the handle does not have a screw, you have a cartridge faucet.

Gather the Necessary Tools

To repair a leaking faucet, you will need the following tools:

Adjustable wrench
Phillips head screwdriver
Flat head screwdriver
Replacement washer or cartridge (if necessary)
Plumber's putty
Rags

Turn Off the Water Supply

Before you begin repairs, turn off the water supply to the faucet you will repair. There will be two shutoff valves under the sink, one for hot water and one for cold water. Turn both valves clockwise to turn off the water.

Disassemble the Faucet

For compression faucets, unscrew the packing nut with the adjustable wrench. For cartridge faucets, remove the handle by unscrewing the screw on top. Once the handle is removed, you can pull out the cartridge.

Replace the Washer or Cartridge

If you have a compression faucet, replace the washer. If you have a cartridge faucet, replace the cartridge.

Reassemble the Faucet

Reassemble the faucet in the reverse order that you disassembled it. For compression faucets, apply plumber's putty to the threads of the packing nut before screwing it back on. For cartridge faucets, insert the new cartridge and tighten the screw on top.

Turn on the Water Supply

Once the faucet is reassembled, turn on the water supply and check for leaks. If there are no leaks, you have successfully repaired your faucet.

Repairing a leaking faucet is a simple task that can be completed in a few minutes with the right tools and a little know-how. By following these steps, you can save yourself the cost of calling a plumber.