BRANDON BROWN
A leaky kitchen faucet can be a frustrating and costly problem. Not only does it waste water, but it can also lead to higher water bills and potential damage to your sink and countertops.
Thankfully, repairing a drippy kitchen faucet is fairly straightforward and can be accomplished in a few simple steps.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of fixing a leaky kitchen faucet and provide tips for preventing future leaks.
Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Materials
Make sure you have everything you need before you begin.
You will need:
Adjustable wrench
Screwdriver
Replacement parts (if needed)
Towel or rag
Plumber’s tape
Penetrating oil (if needed)
Step 2: Shut Off the Water Supply
Before you start working on your faucet, you’ll need to shut off the water supply. Look for the shut-off valves under your sink and turn them clockwise to shut off the water. If you can’t find the shut-off valves, you may need to turn off the main water supply to your house.
Step 3: Remove the Handle
Using a screwdriver, remove the screw that holds the handle in place. Once the screw is removed, you should be able to lift the handle off the faucet. If the handle is stuck, you may need to use a penetrating oil to loosen it.
Step 4: Inspect the Cartridge or O-Ring
Once the handle is removed, you should see the cartridge or O-ring. These are the most common causes of a leaky kitchen faucet. Inspect them for any signs of damage or wear and tear. If they are damaged, you will need to replace them.
Step 5: Replace the Cartridge or O-Ring
If the cartridge or O-ring is damaged, you will need to replace it. You can find replacement parts at your local hardware store or online. Follow the instructions for replacing the cartridge or O-ring.
Before installing the new parts, make sure to wrap them with plumber’s tape to create a watertight seal.
Step 6: Reassemble the Faucet
Once the new parts are installed, reassemble the faucet in the reverse order that you took it apart. Make sure to tighten all screws and connections securely.
Once everything is back in place, turn the water supply back on and test your faucet. If the leak persists, you may need to call a professional plumber for further assistance.
Regularly clean and maintain your faucet to prevent buildup and wear and tear.
Don’t use excessive force when turning your faucet on and off.
If you spot a leak, take immediate action to avoid additional damage.
Consider investing in a high-quality faucet to prevent future leaks.
There are several common causes of leaky kitchen faucets, including:
Worn Out Cartridge or O-Ring
As mentioned earlier, a worn out cartridge or O-ring is one of the most common causes of a leaky kitchen faucet. These parts can become damaged over time due to regular use and may need to be replaced.
Loose Connections
Over time, the connections between the faucet and the sink can become loose, causing leaks. Make sure to regularly check and tighten these connections to prevent leaks.
Mineral Buildup
Mineral buildup can occur in areas with hard water, causing blockages and leaks in your faucet. Regularly cleaning and maintaining your faucet can help prevent this issue. Spot On Plumbing of Tulsa Plumbers can come out and do a water quality test to make sure this does not become a problem in your home.
Corroded Valve Seat
The valve seat is the connection between the faucet and the spout. Over time, this area can become corroded, causing leaks. If you notice a leak near the spout, a corroded valve seat may be the culprit.
While fixing a leaky kitchen faucet is a relatively simple task, there are some instances where it may be best to call a professional Bixby plumber. These include:
If you are unable to locate the source of the leak.
If you are unable to fix the leak after following the steps outlined in this article.
If you are uncomfortable working with plumbing or do not have the necessary tools and materials.
A leaky kitchen faucet can be a nuisance, but with these easy steps, you can fix it in no time.
Don't forget to clean your faucet often to stop leaks. If you can't fix it, call a professional Bixby Plumber.
By taking care of your faucet, you can save money on water bills and prevent potential damage to your sink and countertops.