Dripping faucet driving you crazy? Learn to fix a leaky faucet quickly with our simple 5-step DIY guide. Save water and money with Karney Plumbing's tips

Is that incessant drip, drip, drip from your faucet slowly driving you up the wall? You're not alone. A leaky faucet is one of the most common household plumbing nuisances, but it's more than just an annoyance. That seemingly small drip can waste hundreds, even thousands, of gallons of water per year, leading to surprisingly high water bills and unnecessary environmental impact.   

The good news? Many leaky faucets can be fixed with a few basic tools and a little know-how. At Karney Plumbing, we believe in empowering homeowners with practical solutions. That's why we've put together this simple 5-step DIY guide to help you tackle that dripping faucet, save water, and keep more money in your pocket.

Let's get that drip stopped for good!

Why You Should Fix That Leaky Faucet NOW

Beyond the irritating sound, a dripping faucet is a silent money drain. Even a slow drip can waste gallons of water daily, accumulating into significant losses over time. This not only impacts your utility bill but also contributes to water waste. Addressing a leaky faucet promptly can prevent potential water damage to your sink or countertop and avoid more complex, costly repairs down the line. It's a simple fix that offers big returns in savings and peace of mind.   

Tools You'll Need for Your Faucet Repair

Before you begin, gather these common household tools:

• Adjustable wrench or basin wrench

• Screwdriver set (Phillips and flathead)

• Pliers

• Utility knife or small flathead screwdriver (for prying)

• Replacement washers, O-rings, or a new cartridge (specific to your faucet type)

• Rag or towel

• Bucket or small container

Your 5-Step DIY Guide to Fixing a Leaky Faucet

Ready to silence that drip? Follow these steps carefully:

Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply

This is the most crucial first step for any plumbing repair. Locate the shut-off valves directly underneath your sink. There should be two—one for hot water and one for cold. Turn both valves clockwise until they are completely closed. If your sink doesn't have individual shut-off valves, you'll need to turn off the main water supply to your house. Once the water is off, turn on the leaky faucet to drain any remaining water from the lines and relieve pressure.

Step 2: Disassemble the Faucet Handle

Most faucet leaks stem from worn-out washers, O-rings, or cartridges inside the handle assembly. To access these, you'll need to carefully disassemble the faucet.

• Remove Decorative Caps: Many faucets have decorative caps (often plastic or metal) covering the screws. Gently pry these off with a utility knife or a small flathead screwdriver.

• Unscrew the Handle: Use your screwdriver to remove the screws holding the handle in place. Once the screws are out, lift the handle off.

• Remove the Escutcheon Cap/Packing Nut: Depending on your faucet type, you might see a decorative escutcheon cap or a packing nut. Unscrew this to expose the internal components. You may need an adjustable wrench for the packing nut.

Keep all removed parts in a safe place, perhaps in the bucket, to ensure you don't lose any small pieces.

Step 3: Inspect and Replace Worn Parts

Now that the internal components are exposed, it's time to identify the culprit.

• Compression Faucets: If you have a compression faucet (two handles, one for hot, one for cold), you'll likely find a rubber washer at the base of the stem. This washer often wears out. Use your screwdriver to remove the screw holding it in place, then replace the old washer with a new one of the exact same size.

• Cartridge Faucets: These faucets typically have a cylindrical cartridge that controls water flow. If the cartridge is faulty, you'll need to replace the entire unit. Carefully pull out the old cartridge (you might need pliers) and insert a new one, ensuring it's oriented correctly.

• Disc Faucets: These have a wide, flat disc at the base. Leaks usually mean the rubber seals or O-rings around the disc are worn. Remove the disc and replace any damaged seals.

• Ball Faucets: These are more complex, using a rotating ball to control water. They contain several O-rings and spring-loaded rubber seals. It's often easiest to buy a replacement kit for ball faucets and replace all the internal components.

When replacing parts, ensure they are identical to the originals. Taking the old parts to a hardware store can help you find the perfect match.

Step 4: Reassemble the Faucet

Once you've replaced the worn components, carefully reassemble the faucet in reverse order of disassembly.

• Replace the cartridge, disc, or stem assembly.

• Tighten the packing nut or escutcheon cap.

• Reattach the handle, making sure the screws are snug but not overtightened (this can damage the faucet).

• Replace any decorative caps.

Step 5: Test for Leaks

With everything reassembled, slowly turn the water supply back on at the shut-off valves under the sink. Turn them counter-clockwise until fully open. Then, turn on the faucet and check for any drips or leaks. If the drip is gone, congratulations! You've successfully fixed your leaky faucet.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

While many leaky faucets are DIY-friendly, some situations warrant professional help. If you encounter any of the following, it's time to call Karney Plumbing:

• Persistent Leaks: You've tried the DIY fix, but the faucet is still dripping.   

• Complex Faucet Types: Some modern or antique faucets have intricate designs that are difficult to repair without specialized knowledge or tools.

• Damage to Pipes or Fixtures: If you notice any damage to the pipes leading to the faucet or the faucet itself, a professional can assess and repair it safely.

• Lack of Confidence: If you're unsure at any step or uncomfortable working with plumbing, it's always best to err on the side of caution and call an expert. An unlicensed repair can lead to bigger, more expensive problems.   

Stop the Drip, Save Your Money, and Enjoy Peace of Mind!

Fixing a leaky faucet is a rewarding DIY project that can save you water, money, and a lot of frustration. By following these 5 simple steps, you're well on your way to a drip-free home.

However, if that persistent drip proves to be more stubborn than expected, or if you prefer to leave it to the experts, remember that Karney Plumbing is always here to help. Our team of skilled professionals is ready to tackle any plumbing challenge, big or small, ensuring your home's plumbing runs smoothly and efficiently. Contact us today for reliable service you can trust!