How To Fix A Leaky Faucet

A leaky faucet might seem like a small inconvenience, but a single drip can waste more than 3,000 gallons of water per year. That’s the equivalent of more than 180 showers! Not only does it drive up your water bill, but it also leads to greater environmental impacts. Beyond the environmental impact, the constant dripping noise can drive anyone crazy. The longer you let it go, the more irritation and damage it can cause. 

Tips To Fix A Leaky Faucet

Now that we’ve seen the bigger picture of a leaky faucet, it’s time to dive into some practical solutions. Here are some tips to help you fix that annoying drip and bring peace back to your home.

1. Persistent Dripping? Inspect and Replace the Washer

That maddening drip could be because of a worn-out washer! Over time, the washer in your faucet endures significant friction, eventually leading to wear and tear. The solution? Turn off the water supply, dismantle the faucet, and replace the washer with a new one that fits snugly. Don’t let a $2 part cost you hundreds in water bills.

2. Stuck or Rusty Handles

Trying to fix your faucet, only to have the handles stuck, can add insult to injury. Stuck or rusty faucet handles are often caused by corrosion. To fix this, apply a penetrating oil, wait for a few minutes, and use a wrench to carefully loosen the handles. Patience is key here—don’t rush, or you might break the handle!

Leaking at the Base? The O-Ring Might Be the Culprit

That little rubber ring under your faucet’s spout can wear out, leading to leaks around the handle area. If your faucet is leaking from the base, the O-ring is likely the culprit. Replacing it requires turning off the water, unscrewing the faucet’s handle, and swapping out the old O-ring for a new one. 

Leaks Around the Spout? Cartridge May Be the Culprit

Leaks originating from the spout often point to issues with the faucet cartridge. To fix this, you’ll need to remove the cartridge, inspect it for damage, and install a new one if necessary. It’s a more advanced fix but can save you from ongoing frustration.

Conclusion

While it’s possible to tackle a leaky faucet on your own with the right tools. However, sometimes the repairs are more complex than they seem. There’s always the risk of damaging the faucet further or missing the underlying cause. 

That’s where Fuller Plumbing comes in. With our expertise in handling every type of plumbing issue—especially leaky faucets—we make sure the job gets done right the first time. Why risk spending more time and money on DIY solutions when you can have peace of mind with a professional fix? Let Fuller Plumbing handle the hassle while you enjoy a drip-free home!