The tap…tap…tapping of a leaking faucet increases your water bill, but it can also cause agitation and annoyance. There is something distinctly aggravating about a leaking faucet, especially when you first notice. It seems like that is the only sound in the house. Don’t worry. If excess water is escaping your faucets, there are steps you can take to fix it. We’ve put together common solutions you can try at home. If these do not work, one of our experienced bluefrog plumbers is ready to help.
Compression Faucets
There are different faucets that require specific attention. If you have a compression faucet, it is most likely it needs a new seat washer. Compression faucets are the faucets that have two stationary knobs on either side of the spout. The seat washer is located under the handle, so you will need to remove the decorative cap, handle, and use a crescent wrench to unscrew the packing nut. Once that is done, take off the O-ring and seat washer and replace the latter with a new one.
Ball-Type Faucets
This faucet has one handle that is located on a ball, making it easier to move in either direction. Rather than replacing the faucet, you can get a replacement kit to solve the problem. To stop a leak, you will need to take off the handle and then with adjustable pliers, remove the cap and collar. In the repair kit, you will find a special tool that allows you to loosen and remove the faucet cam, along with the cam washer and rotating ball. From there, you must take out the inlet seals and springs. Cut the O-rings, coat a new one in plumber’s grease, and reassemble all the parts together again.
Cartridge Faucets
The cartridge faucet is similar to the ball-type faucet in design but has no ball. To fix this, you need to remove the decorative handle and handle screw. If you see a threaded retaining clip holding the cartridge, remove it and pullout the cartridge. Remove the spout and cut off the O-ring. Reassemble the faucet with a new ring.
Ceramic-Disk Faucets
The ceramic-disk faucet also has a similar design to the ball-type and cartridge. To fix a leak for this unit, take off the screw and lift the handle. You must then remove the escutcheon cap, unscrew and lift out the cylinder, and lift out the neoprene seals in the cylinder. Use a cleaning agent (we recommend distilled white vinegar) and a cleaning pad to wipe off the cylinder openings. Rinse everything off and then reassemble the unit.
At bluefrog Plumbing + Drain, we understand how complicated leaky faucets can be to fix. If you try these tips and still need help, our plumbers are waiting to help nationwide! Call us today at any time!
