Bathroom Faucet Leaking At Base

A leaking bathroom faucet is a common problem that can waste water and drive up your utility bills. If you're experiencing this issue, don't despair - it's usually a relatively easy fix. In this article, we'll walk you through the steps on how to stop a bathroom faucet from leaking at the base. ### What Causes a Bathroom Faucet to Leak at the Base? There are a few different things that can cause a bathroom faucet to leak at the base. The most common cause is a worn-out washer. Washers are small rubber or plastic discs that create a seal between the faucet stem and the body of the faucet. Over time, washers can become worn or damaged, which can allow water to leak out. Another potential cause of a leaking faucet is a loose packing nut. The packing nut is a large nut that is located at the base of the faucet stem. It helps to keep the stem in place and prevent water from leaking out. If the packing nut is loose, it can allow water to seep out around the stem. ### How to Stop a Bathroom Faucet from Leaking at the Base If you're experiencing a bathroom faucet leak at the base, there are a few things you can do to fix it.

1. Replace the Washer

The first step is to replace the washer. To do this, you'll need to turn off the water supply to the faucet and then remove the aerator. The aerator is the small screen that is located at the tip of the faucet spout. Once the aerator is removed, you'll be able to access the washer. To remove the washer, simply use a pair of pliers to gently pry it out of place. Once the washer is removed, you can replace it with a new one. Make sure that the new washer is the same size and shape as the old one.

2. Tighten the Packing Nut

If replacing the washer doesn't stop the leak, you may need to tighten the packing nut. To do this, you'll need to use a wrench to turn the packing nut clockwise. Be careful not to overtighten the packing nut, as this can damage the faucet.

3. Call a Plumber

If you're not comfortable replacing the washer or tightening the packing nut yourself, you can always call a plumber. A plumber will be able to quickly and easily fix the leak for you. ### Conclusion A leaking bathroom faucet is a common problem, but it's usually a relatively easy fix. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can stop the leak and save yourself money on your water bill.