Leaky faucets do not just waste your water but also wash your money down the drain. If you can fix it yourself, there’s no need to spend on money in hiring a professional. The first thing you need to understand about faucets is that there are many different types sold in the market, each having some parts that are unique to its model. The most common causes of leaks are old or broken o-rings or gaskets, and worn out valve seats. Damaged washers are also top reasons for faucets to leak. However, no matter what type of faucet you have, it works and can be repaired according to a basic principle. Here are the steps in fixing your faucet so that it stops dripping:


Step 1. Turn off the main water supply and take the faucet apart and remove the stem by unscrewing the handle. Some of the screws may be hidden under a disc or a cap that needs to be snapped in order for you to get to the screw. Use oil if you find it difficult to loosen and remove the handle screw.

Step 2. Once you have removed the handle, remove the packing nut next using a large pair of pliers or wrench. Evaluate the stem and the screws and see whether they need replacement or not. If they are damaged, then you would have to replace them immediately.

Step 3. You may have to replace the washers if they are already old or worn out. When replacing washers, see to it that you replace not just the damaged washer but all the rest of the washers you find inside. This will ensure you that all your washers are brand new and are all in perfect condition. Also make sure that you get the exact replacements for the washers. Most people make the mistake of not taking the damaged parts to the shop when buying replacement parts, making the job a lot more difficult for them. Some washers may work for any type of faucet but only temporarily, so make sure you buy the exact replacement all the time.

Step 4. Install the new washer to the faucet stem and reassemble the whole faucet. More often than not, a brand new washer would automatically stop the leak. Turn the stem clockwise to put it back in place.

Step 5. Attach the faucet handle in place as well as the button or the disc that covers the screw. At this time, you can turn the water supply on again and observe whether the faucet is still leaking or not. It would take a while to find out so keep on observing your faucet each time you turn it on. If you have used the faucet for only a short period of time after the repair and it leaks again, you would have to disassemble it again and check what might have gone wrong and if there’s one important step you might have missed.