Dripping Faucet Repair

Faucets are an essential part of every household as they help in controlling water flow. As faucets are used a lot, they are likely to spoil easily as well. A leaking or dripping faucet is a sign that some part of the faucet is facing a problem and requires repairing or replacement.

If a faucet drips when off, then it might be due to a seepage from the water supply. Water is supplied to houses under pressure and therefore there is a watertight seal which prevents water from flowing through the faucet when the handle is turned off. This seal, or gasket, is a dough-nut shaped rubber ring fixed between the faucet handle and stem. So, when this seal is not functioning. Some amount of water seeps through the faucet spout, even when the handle is in the off position. This calls for a repair job or replacing the entire faucet. Mostly, you will just have to replace the seal to stop any leakage.

Faucets available in the market are of different types. However, the basic structure in all of these is the same.

How to Repair a Dripping Faucet

Tools Required

• Screwdriver
• Adjustable wrench
• Toothbrush and other cleaning materials
• Dry cloth
• New gasket

Faucet Repair Instructions

Step 1
To begin with, turn off water supply to the faucet you are working on. If you are repairing the faucet in your kitchen, turn off water supply to the sink; and if you are trying to fix the shower or bathtub faucet, then turn off water supply to these places. Also drain out any excess water by turning the tap on.

Step 2
In case you have a decorative covering on the faucet handle, pry it out carefully. You will find the retaining nut placed beneath the handle cover. The nut should come off with your hands itself and if it does not, use an adjustable wrench.

Step 3
After taking off the retaining nut, you will have to remove the faucet's stem. The complete top assembly of the tap below the retaining screw is called the stem of the faucet. Use you hands to twist and pull out this valve unit.

Step 4
Below the stem of the faucet, you will find a gasket. It is normally the shape of a dough-nut and is made up of rubber. Take the gasket out. Visit a hardware store nearby and purchase a new gasket similar in shape and size as the old one you have.

Step 5
As you have disassembled the faucet stem, it is a good opportunity to clean the interiors of this part. Scrub all parts properly using a toothbrush and any cleaning solution. Now wipe off all these parts with a soft, dry cloth. Also, clean the faucet handle and it's cover. Doing this shall ensure that your faucet will fit back well and also chances of leakage will be minimized.

Step 6
The new gasket needs to be placed in position. Keep it on the faucet handle and ensure that it is not crumpled in any way and is lying flat against the handle. Reassemble the entire faucet stem and take care not to get the gasket stuck in any manner. Fix the faucet stem onto the handle by tightening the retaining screw. Attach the faucet handle cover on top of the retaining screw and your job is complete.

Step 7
The last step involves testing the faucet for any leakage. Turn on the water supply first and then the tap, and let water run through for about a minute. Turn off the tap and wipe it on the outside with a soft, dry cloth. Examine the faucet thoroughly for any signs of dripping or leakage. Ideally, there should be done.

The job is simple and can easily be done at home. A leaky faucet is not only irritating, but also results in wastage of water. To prevent any of this, follow the instructions above and save on water as well as extra trouble.