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Leaky faucets are more than just a nuisance. Here’s how to fix that leaky faucet in five easy steps and save yourself some cash.
1. Shut off the water supply to the faucet
One of the most common plumbing issues is a dripping faucet. This can be annoying and waste a lot of water if left unchecked. The good news is that it is usually a quick and easy fix. The first step is to shut off the water supply to the faucet. This can usually be done by turning a knob under the sink. Once the water is shut off, take a look at the faucet to see if there are any visible signs of damage. If there is, you may need to replace the entire faucet. However, in most cases, simply replacing the washer will suffice. To do this, unscrew the cap on the back of the handle and remove the washer. Take it to a hardware store to find an exact match, then screw everything back together. Once you have replaced the washer, turn on the water supply and check for leaks.
2. Remove the handle by unscrewing it from the valve stem
If your faucet is dripping, the first step is to remove the handle. Unscrew it from the valve stem, being careful not to damage the finish. Once the handle is off, you’ll be able to see the inner workings of the faucet. Check for any obvious signs of damage or wear, and then proceed to repair or replace any parts as necessary.
3. Inspect the washer and replace it if needed
Over time, washers can become worn and damaged, causing them to leak. If you notice your washer is dripping, it’s important to fix the issue as soon as possible. A dripping faucet can waste a lot of water, and it can also damage your washer. To fix a dripping faucet, you’ll need to replace the washer. You can do this yourself if you’re handy, or you can hire a professional to do it for you. If you’re not sure how to replace a washer, there are plenty of guides and tutorials online that can help. Once you’ve replaced the washer, be sure to inspect it regularly to make sure it’s not leaking.
4. Reattach the handle and turn on the water supply
Finally, reattach the handle and turn on the water supply. With just a few minutes of work, you can fix a dripping faucet and stop wasting water.
5. Test for leaks and fix as necessary
A dripping faucet is not only annoying, but it can also waste a lot of water. If you suspect that your faucet is leaking, there are a few easy tests you can do to confirm. First, check the water pressure. If it’s significantly lower than normal, that could be a sign that your faucet is not sealing properly. Another test is to unscrew the aerator and see if water dribbles out. If it does, then you have a leak. Finally, you can put a few drops of food coloring in the tank and see if it shows up in the bowl within 15 minutes. If it does, then you have a leaky flapper valve. Once you’ve confirmed that you have a leak, it’s time to fix it. Depending on the cause of the leak, you may be able to fix it yourself with a few simple tools. However, if the problem is more serious, then you may need to call a residential plumber in Salt Lake City. In either case, fixing a leaky faucet is an important way to conserve water and save money on your utility bills.
While fixing a dripping faucet may seem like a daunting task, it’s actually quite easy to do. In just five simple steps, you can have that pesky leak taken care of and be back to enjoying your morning cup of coffee without any worries.