How do I stop a dripping faucet?
A faucet that drips might appear to be a minor nuisance, but over time, it can waste gallons of water and increase your water bill unnecessarily. Fortunately, fixing a leaky faucet is often a manageable DIY project that doesn't require professional plumbing skills. Identifying what’s causing the drip is the first step toward solving the issue.
Most dripping faucets are caused by worn or damaged internal components, such as gaskets, O-rings, or cartridges, depending on the type of faucet. When these components deteriorate, they can no longer provide a proper seal, allowing water to leak even when the faucet is turned off. Identifying the type of faucet you have—compression, cartridge, ball, or ceramic disc—will help you determine which component needs to be replaced.
Before beginning any repairs, make sure to turn off the faucet’s water supply. The shut-off valves are typically found beneath the sink. Once the water is turned off, plug the drain to prevent small parts from falling in, then carefully disassemble the faucet using the appropriate tools, such as a wrench or screwdriver.
In the case of a compression faucet, the issue is typically caused by a worn-out gasket. These gaskets are easy and inexpensive to replace. Cartridge, ball, or ceramic disc faucets, on the other hand, may require the entire cartridge or disc assembly to be replaced, which can be found at most hardware stores. Just be sure to bring the old part with you to find a perfect fit.
After replacing the damaged part, reassemble the faucet and turn the water supply back on. Then, check the faucet to see if the dripping has stopped. If the leak persists, check to see if all the parts are installed correctly and tightened securely. Occasionally, the cause may be corrosion or damage to the valve seat (the part the gasket presses against), in which case it may need to be cleaned or replaced.
If you've tried these steps and the faucet is still dripping, or if you're dealing with an older or more complex faucet, it may be worth calling a plumber. However, for many homeowners, stopping a dripping faucet is a satisfying and inexpensive solution that only requires a little time and effort.
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