?Leaky faucets are a common household problem that is more annoying than anything. Most often, it is a simple problem that can be repaired without a professional. With the help of a few tools and instructions, DIY faucet repair is simple. Here is how to fix a leaky faucet.
1. Turn off the water supply.
Before doing any work on your faucet, it is important to turn off the water supply to your sink. Most commonly the water supply is under the sink or on a pipe connected to the sink.
2. Locate the gasket and remove.
The gasket will be shaped like a flattened doughnut and will be made of rubber.
3. Check for grime.
Look in the faucet area and check for any grime. Make sure to clean any grit and grime in the faucet area as well as the faucet hair.
4. Purchase a new gasket.
When purchasing a new gasket for your DIY faucet repair at the hardware store, be sure to bring the gasket previously removed in order to find a correct match.
5. Replace gasket.
New gasket is replaced by placing it into the faucet head.
6. Re-attach faucet head.
Initially hand screw the faucet head then follow with wrench to tighten. Make sure gasket isn’t wedged between the grooves while attaching faucet head.
7. Turn on water supply.
Once water in turned on, test your faucet by running water for about thirty seconds. Wait to see if your faucet leaks. If there is no leak, your attempt to fix a leaky faucet is a success. (Note: Be sure to wipe any excess water from the faucet head before checking for any leak.)
Overall, repairing a leaky faucet is a easy task. Repairing this small problem yourself will save you a lot of money. All you have to purchase is the cost of a new gasket. There is no need to hire a contractor for this small household annoyance. If your attempt is unsuccessful or another problem is present it is best to hire a professional to fix the problem. Repairing a leaky faucet is simple but other problems are not good DIY projects.
