How to Fix a Leaking Faucet and Save Water

How to Fix a Leaking Faucet and Save Water: A DIY Guide for Homeowners

A leaking faucet is one of the most common household plumbing issues, and while it might seem like a minor problem, it can lead to significant water waste and higher utility bills over time. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), a single faucet dripping once per second can waste over 3,000 gallons of water per year. Fixing a leaky faucet is not only environmentally responsible but can also save you money on your water bill.

Fortunately, fixing most faucet leaks is a relatively simple DIY task that doesn’t require specialized skills or expensive tools. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of how to fix a leaking faucet step by step, including identifying the cause of the leak and performing common repairs.

Common Causes of a Leaking Faucet

Before you start repairing the faucet, it’s important to understand what might be causing the leak. Here are some of the most common reasons faucets leak:

1. Worn-Out Washers

In compression faucets (the most traditional type of faucet), the washer inside the faucet is often the culprit. Over time, the washer wears down from friction, leading to leaks when the faucet is turned off.

2. Damaged O-Rings

The O-ring is a small rubber ring that helps seal the faucet handle. If the O-ring becomes worn or loose, it can cause leaks around the base of the faucet handle.

3. Corroded Valve Seat

The valve seat connects the faucet to the spout, and if it becomes corroded due to mineral deposits or rust, it can cause leaks at the base of the faucet.

4. Worn Cartridge

In cartridge faucets, a worn or damaged cartridge can cause leaks. This is a common issue with modern single-handle faucets, where the cartridge regulates the flow of water.

5. Loose Parts

Sometimes, faucet leaks are caused by loose parts, such as a loose handle or nut. Tightening these components can often resolve the issue.

Tools You’ll Need to Fix a Leaking Faucet

Before you begin fixing your faucet, gather the following tools and materials to ensure a smooth repair process:

• Adjustable wrench
• Flathead and Phillips screwdrivers
• Replacement parts (washers, O-rings, cartridges, etc.)
• Plumber’s tape
• Penetrating oil (for loosening stuck parts)
• A cloth or rag (for cleaning and drying)

Preventing Hair Buildup in Drains

The best way to deal with hair clogs is to prevent them from forming in the first place. Here are some simple tips to reduce hair buildup in your drains:

1. Use a Drain Cover or Hair Catcher

Installing a drain cover or hair catcher is an easy way to stop hair from entering your drain. These devices sit over or inside the drain and catch hair before it can enter the pipes. Be sure to clean them regularly to prevent water from backing up.

2. Brush Hair Before Showering

Brushing your hair before showering can help remove loose strands that would otherwise end up in the drain. This simple habit can significantly reduce the amount of hair that goes down the drain, minimizing clogs.

3. Clean Drains Regularly

Performing regular drain maintenance can prevent small buildups from turning into major clogs. Use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar once a month to keep your drains clear. You can also run hot water down the drain after each use to help flush away any small amounts of debris or hair.

Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing a Leaking Faucet

Here’s how to fix a leaking faucet, depending on the type of faucet you have. Follow these steps carefully to avoid further damage and ensure a proper repair.

Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply

Before you start any faucet repair, always turn off the water supply to avoid flooding your sink or bathroom. Look for the water shutoff valves under the sink and turn them clockwise to close. If you can’t find the individual shutoff valves, you may need to turn off the main water supply to your home.

Once the water is off, open the faucet to release any remaining water in the pipes.

Step 2: Plug the Drain

Place a plug or towel over the drain to prevent small parts (like screws or washers) from falling down the sink while you’re working. This can save you from having to fish parts out of the drain later.

Step 3: Remove the Faucet Handle

The next step is to remove the faucet handle so you can access the internal components. Use a flathead or Phillips screwdriver to loosen the screw holding the handle in place. If the handle is stuck, apply a bit of penetrating oil to loosen it.

Once the handle is removed, set it aside.

Step 4: Disassemble the Faucet

Depending on the type of faucet you have (compression, cartridge, ball, or ceramic disk), the steps for disassembly will vary slightly:

For Compression Faucets:

• Use a wrench to loosen and remove the packing nut.
• Remove the stem to expose the washer underneath.
• Take out the washer and inspect it for wear or damage. If it’s worn out, replace it with a new washer of the same size.

For Cartridge Faucets:

• Remove the retaining clip (if there is one) using a pair of pliers.
• Pull out the cartridge from the faucet body.
• Inspect the cartridge for damage or wear, and replace it if necessary.

For Ball Faucets:

• Use a specialized tool (available at hardware stores) to remove the ball assembly.
• Inspect the ball for wear or damage, and replace any damaged parts, including the ball, cam, and seals.

For Ceramic Disk Faucets:

• Remove the ceramic disk cylinder from the faucet.
• Inspect the rubber seals at the bottom of the cylinder and replace them if they’re worn or damaged.

Step 5: Replace Worn Parts

Once you’ve disassembled the faucet, check for worn or damaged parts, including washers, O-rings, and cartridges. Be sure to replace any faulty parts with exact replacements. You can find replacement parts at most hardware or home improvement stores. Bring the old parts with you to ensure you get the correct size and type.

Step 6: Reassemble the Faucet

After replacing the worn parts, reassemble the faucet by following the disassembly steps in reverse order. Be sure to tighten everything securely, but avoid over-tightening, as this can cause damage to the parts or the faucet.

Use plumber’s tape on any threaded connections to ensure a watertight seal.

Step 7: Turn the Water Back On

Once the faucet is fully reassembled, turn the water supply back on by turning the shutoff valves counterclockwise. Open the faucet to check for any leaks and ensure that everything is functioning correctly. If the faucet is no longer leaking, congratulations—you’ve successfully fixed it!

Additional Tips for Fixing a Leaking Faucet

• Inspect Other Faucets: If one faucet is leaking, others may not be far behind. Take a few minutes to inspect other faucets in your home for signs of wear or damage.
• Clean the Faucet: While the faucet is disassembled, take the opportunity to clean out any debris, sediment, or mineral buildup that may be affecting the water flow. This can improve performance and extend the life of your faucet.
• Use a Faucet Repair Kit: Some hardware stores offer faucet repair kits that include all the parts you need for a specific type of faucet. These kits can simplify the repair process.

How Fixing a Leaking Faucet Saves Water

A small drip from a faucet may not seem like a big deal, but over time, it can lead to significant water waste. For example, a faucet dripping once every second can waste up to 5 gallons of water per day—or more than 2,000 gallons per year.

By fixing your leaking faucet, you’re doing your part to conserve water, which is not only environmentally friendly but also helps reduce your utility bills. Here are some additional benefits of fixing a leaking faucet:

• Lower Water Bills: Even a minor leak can lead to noticeable increases in your water bill. Fixing the leak will stop the waste and help you save money.
• Prevent Water Damage: Left unaddressed, a leaking faucet can lead to water damage around your sink, counter, or cabinetry. Repairing the leak early can help prevent costly damage to your home.
• Longer-Lasting Fixtures: By addressing leaks and replacing worn parts, you can extend the life of your faucet and avoid premature replacements.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

While fixing a leaking faucet is often a simple DIY project, there are times when it’s best to call a professional plumber. If you’ve tried the steps above and the faucet is still leaking, or if the leak is coming from the plumbing beneath the sink, it’s time to get expert help.

A plumber can identify the source of the problem, ensure the correct parts are used, and make sure the repair is done correctly the first time, saving you time and frustration.

Conclusion: Fixing a Leaking Faucet is Easy and Saves Water

Fixing a leaking faucet is a straightforward DIY task that can help you save water, reduce your utility bills, and prevent further damage to your home. With a few basic tools and some replacement parts, you can stop the leak and restore your faucet to working order.

Contact Rad Plumbing for Professional Faucet Repair Services

If you’re dealing with a stubborn leak or need assistance with your plumbing system, Rad Plumbing is here to help. Our experienced plumbers can fix your leaking faucets quickly and efficiently, saving you water and money.

Contact Rad Plumbing today to schedule an inspection or repair, and let us take care of your plumbing needs!