A drippy faucet can be a real annoyance. Not only does it waste water, but the sound can also drive you crazy. Fortunately, fixing a drippy faucet is usually a simple job that you can do yourself. In this article, we’ll show you how to fix a drippy faucet step-by-step, so you can save money on your water bill and get some peace and quiet.
What Causes a Drippy Faucet?
Before we dive into how to fix a drippy faucet, let’s first talk about what causes it. There are a few common reasons why your faucet might be dripping:
- The O-ring is worn out
- The washer is worn out
- The valve seat is corroded
- The cartridge needs to be replaced
Now that you know what could be causing your drippy faucet, let’s move on to how to fix it.
How to Fix a Drippy Faucet: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
Before you start working on your faucet, you need to turn off the water supply. Look for the shutoff valve under your sink and turn it clockwise to shut off the water. If you can’t find the shutoff valve, you can turn off the main water supply to your house.
Step 2: Remove the Handle
The next step is to remove the handle from the faucet. This will give you access to the parts inside that might need to be replaced. To remove the handle, look for a small screw near the base of the handle and use a screwdriver to remove it. Once the screw is removed, you should be able to pull the handle off.
Step 3: Remove the Nut
Underneath the handle, you’ll see a nut that holds the faucet cartridge in place. Use a wrench to loosen the nut and remove it. Once the nut is removed, you should be able to pull the cartridge out of the faucet.
Step 4: Inspect the Parts
Now that you have the cartridge out of the faucet, inspect the parts to see what might be causing the drip. Look for a worn out O-ring, a worn out washer, or a corroded valve seat. If you see any of these issues, you’ll need to replace the corresponding part.
Step 5: Replace the Parts
If you need to replace a part, take the old one to your local hardware store to find a replacement. Once you have the new part, install it by following the instructions that came with it. Make sure everything is tightened securely, but don’t over-tighten anything or you could damage the parts.
Step 6: Reassemble the Faucet
Once you’ve replaced any necessary parts, it’s time to reassemble the faucet. Put the cartridge back into the faucet and tighten the nut with your wrench. Then, put the handle back on and tighten the screw with your screwdriver. Finally, turn the water supply back on and test the faucet to make sure the leak is fixed.
FAQs
Q: How much does it cost to fix a drippy faucet?
A: The cost of fixing a drippy faucet can vary depending on what parts need to be replaced. In general, it’s a relatively inexpensive fix that can save you money in the long run.
Q: Can I fix a drippy faucet myself?
A: Yes, you can fix a drippy faucet yourself if you have some basic plumbing knowledge and the right tools. It’s a simple job that can usually be done in an hour or less.
Q: What should I do if I can’t fix my drippy faucet?
A: If you can’t fix your drippy faucet, it’s time to call a plumber. They can diagnose the problem and fix it for you, so you don’t have to deal with the annoyance of a drippy faucet anymore.
Conclusion
Fixing a drippy faucet is a simple job that you can do yourself with a few basic tools. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can save money on your water bill and get some peace and quiet. Remember to turn off the water supply before you start working on the faucet, and be careful not to over-tighten anything. If you run into any issues, don’t hesitate to call a plumber for help.