It might be possible to fix a leaky faucet yourself, and the process can be fairly straightforward and inexpensive.
Tools for Fixing a Leaky Faucet
You'll need certain tools to tackle the task of eliminating your faucet's pesky drip. Find them at a local hardware or home improvement store, or online:
An adjustable wrench helps loosen certain components of the faucet so you can replace the defective part that's causing the leak. Expect to pay $5-$10 for an adjustable wrench.
Use a Phillips screwdriver remove or attach certain elements of the faucet. A Phillips screwdriver typically costs $4-$8.
Penetrating oil makes it easier to loosen the faucet parts. Popular brands include WD-40 and CRC. Penetrating oils such as WD-40 typically start at around $4.
Replacement washers and O-rings are the parts you'll need to replace. Each typically costs around $5. Get a pack with many different sizes of washers and O-rings if you're unsure which size you'll need.
How to Fix a Leaky Faucet
Now that you've got the necessary tools, you're ready to DIY. Leaky faucets are often caused by a defective washer or O-ring. If you suspect that this is the reason for your leak, follow these steps to bid farewell to that constant drip.
- Turn off the faucet's water supply. Pulling a faucet apart while the water supply is still on could cause flooding. Turn off the faucets themselves, and make sure the knobs beneath the sink that control the water supply are turned off, as well.
- Remove the faucet's handle knobs. Use a Phillips screwdriver to pry the decorative elements of your faucet's handle knobs loose. Beneath, find the screw connecting the faucet's handle to its stem. Using the Phillips screwdriver, unscrew and remove the handle. If the screw is particularly stiff, use a penetrating oil to get it to cooperate.
- Remove the faucet's stem. Look for a packing nut and remove it with a wrench. This will give clear access to the faucet's stem. Remove the stem. Depending on the type of faucet, this can be accomplished by pulling it off or twisting it from the valve.
- Replace the washer and O-ring. Once the stem has been removed, take a look at the washer and O-ring. If these parts are damaged or worn, they will cause the faucet to leak. Remove the old washer and O-ring, and replace them with new parts. Make sure the replacements are a perfect fit.
- Reassemble the faucet. Reinstall the stem, packing nut, screw, and handle. Use the knobs beneath the sink to restore water supply. Turn on the faucet to make sure it functions properly.
Hiring a Plumber to Fix a Leaky Faucet
Replacing the washer and O-ring will often fix a leaky faucet. But sometimes there is another cause, and installing a new washer and O-ring won't help. In this case, the easiest solution is to hire a plumber.
Not all plumbers provide the same quality of service. Choose a licensed plumber, since these professionals have the necessary training. It's also important to choose a plumber who is bonded and insured. This will protect you from liability if there is an accident on the job.
Many plumbers charge $45-$150 per hour. The total cost for fixing a leaky faucet will depend on how much time it takes to complete the repairs.
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