My Bathroom Faucet Is Leaking

A leaking bathroom faucet is a common plumbing problem that can waste water and drive up your water bills. If you have a leaky faucet, it's important to fix it as soon as possible to prevent further damage and water waste. In this article, we'll discuss the causes of leaky faucets and provide step-by-step instructions on how to fix them.

Causes of Leaky Faucets

There are several common causes of leaky faucets, including:

Worn-out washers: Washers are small rubber or plastic discs that create a seal between the faucet handle and the faucet body. Over time, washers can become worn or damaged, which can cause the faucet to leak.
Damaged O-rings: O-rings are rubber seals that create a seal between the faucet handle and the faucet body. Like washers, O-rings can become worn or damaged over time, which can cause the faucet to leak.
Loose or damaged faucet handle: A loose or damaged faucet handle can allow water to leak out from around the handle.
Corroded or damaged faucet body: The faucet body can become corroded or damaged over time, which can cause the faucet to leak.

How to Fix a Leaky Faucet

Fixing a leaky faucet is a relatively simple plumbing repair that can be done by most homeowners with basic tools and knowledge. Here are the steps:

1. Gather your tools

You will need the following tools to fix a leaky faucet:

Adjustable wrench
Phillips head screwdriver
Flathead screwdriver
Replacement washers or O-rings (if necessary)

2. Turn off the water supply

Before you begin working on the faucet, turn off the water supply to the faucet. This will prevent water from leaking out while you are working.

3. Remove the faucet handle

To remove the faucet handle, use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screw that is located on the top of the handle. Once the screw is removed, you should be able to pull the handle straight up to remove it.

4. Inspect the washer or O-ring

Once the faucet handle is removed, you will be able to see the washer or O-ring. Inspect the washer or O-ring for any signs of wear or damage. If the washer or O-ring is worn or damaged, it will need to be replaced.

5. Replace the washer or O-ring

To replace the washer or O-ring, simply pull the old washer or O-ring out of the faucet body and insert the new washer or O-ring into the faucet body. Make sure that the new washer or O-ring is seated properly in the faucet body.

6. Reinstall the faucet handle

To reinstall the faucet handle, simply align the handle with the faucet body and push the handle down until it is seated properly. Then, use a Phillips head screwdriver to tighten the screw that is located on the top of the handle.

7. Turn on the water supply and check for leaks

Once the faucet handle is reinstalled, turn on the water supply to the faucet and check for leaks. If the faucet is still leaking, you may need to tighten the packing nut. The packing nut is located at the base of the faucet handle.

Conclusion

Fixing a leaky faucet is a relatively simple plumbing repair that can be done by most homeowners with basic tools and knowledge. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can fix a leaky faucet and save money on your water bills.