A leaking bathroom faucet is not only annoying but also wastes water and increases utility bills. Fortunately, most faucet leaks can be fixed with simple tools and a bit of patience. This guide explains how to repair a leaking faucet step by step, helping you save money and extend the lifespan of your bathroom fixture.
Before repairing, it’s important to understand what usually causes leaks:
Worn washers: Rubber or silicone washers degrade over time and allow water to drip.
Damaged O-rings: These small seals around the faucet handle can wear out.
Loose parts: Nuts, screws, or fittings may loosen and cause water seepage.
Corroded valve seats: Mineral buildup can damage the connection between the spout and the faucet body.
Adjustable wrench
Screwdriver (flathead or Phillips, depending on your faucet)
Replacement washers, O-rings, or cartridges
Plumber’s tape
White vinegar for cleaning mineral deposits
Towel or bucket
Locate the shut-off valves under your sink and turn them clockwise to stop the water flow. Turn on the faucet to release any remaining pressure and ensure no water runs while you work.
Use a screwdriver to remove the screw holding the handle in place. Once unscrewed, gently lift the handle off the faucet body. Some faucets have decorative caps hiding the screws—pry these off carefully.
The repair method depends on your faucet design:
Compression faucet (separate hot and cold handles): usually requires washer replacement.
Cartridge faucet: may need a new cartridge.
Ball faucet: contains multiple parts, including O-rings and seals.
Ceramic disk faucet: relies on ceramic disks that rarely fail but may need cleaning.
For compression faucets, remove the stem and replace the rubber washer.
For cartridge faucets, pull out the old cartridge and install a new one.
For ball or ceramic disk faucets, replace O-rings and seals as needed.
Clean any mineral buildup on valve seats with vinegar before reassembly.
Put all parts back in order, secure the handle with the screw, and ensure everything is tightened properly. Wrap plumber’s tape around threaded connections for a better seal.
Turn the water supply back on and open the faucet. Check for leaks around the handle, spout, and base. If dripping continues, recheck the installation or consider replacing the entire faucet.
Avoid overtightening the handles, which wears out washers faster.
Clean mineral deposits regularly.
Replace O-rings and washers at the first sign of wear.
Consider upgrading to a water-efficient faucet for better performance and durability.
Knowing how to repair a leaking faucet in the bathroom is a practical skill that saves water and reduces unnecessary expenses. With the right tools and replacement parts, most repairs can be done in under an hour. For long-term reliability, sourcing high-quality bathroom faucets from trusted suppliers like HAOJIAJIA ensures durability and modern design options for your bathroom.
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