Leaking faucets are annoying and costly. Small leaks can waste several gallons of water each day and create unsightly water spots and stains in your sink.  If the constant dripping is driving you up the wall, fix the faucet yourself, saving time and money.

There are several different types of faucets available today. Even though they may all look different, they all operate in a similar manner. Most sinks and shower have mixing faucets or stem faucets, which let you adjust the temperature by controlling the hot and cold handles. Mixing faucets and stem faucets have two individual units, both of which may need to be prepared.

CAUSES OF WATER LEAKS

Nuts may be the cause

If water is leaking at the base of the handle, the connection may just be loose. Use an wrench to tighten the nut just below the handle. (In some bathroom faucets, the nut may be located inside the handle. Pull the handle off to reveal the the hardware.)

Washers could be the issue

Most faucet leaks are caused by washers that have worn out or are improperly installed. Signs of a bad washer are water dripping or running out of the handle, slow leaks coming from the faucet, and water pooling around the back of the faucet. If you’re working with a stem faucet, you can determine which unit is leaking by shutting off the water supply in stages. Begin by turning off the hot water to check for leaks. If the dripping stops then it is the hot water washer you’ll need to replace.

How to fix the leaks

1.Turn off the water supply to the sink. You’ll often find the shut-off under the sink or inside a cabinet. Double check you’ve shut off the water supply by turning on the faucet. If no water comes out, you have successfully turned off the water supply.

2. loosen the packing nut by turning it counter clockwise (The nut is just below or inside the faucet handles.) Using the handle, pull out the entire valve unit by twisting and turning it until it pulls free.

3. locate the faulty washer and remove the screw that is holding the it in place.

4.Using the old washer as a guide, replace the faulty washer with one of the same size, then replace the screw.

5.Place the valce into the faucet, turning the handle to its proper position before tightening.

6.Tighten the nut and turn the water back on look for any leaks.

If your faucet continues to leak and you’re sure the washer is to blame, replace your washer with one of slightly different size.

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