How to Fix a Dripping Faucet

A dripping faucet is not just annoying to listen to - it can also lead to wasted water and higher water bills. Fortunately, it's often a problem you can solve yourself without having to call an expensive plumber. In this guide, we show you how to stop that irritating drip and save money.

What You'll Need

• Screwdriver (flat and Phillips)
• Adjustable wrench or water pump pliers
• New washer (O-ring or flat washer) - buy several sizes if you're unsure
• Silicone grease (optional, but recommended)
• Vinegar or limescale remover
• Old cloth or towel

Step 1: Turn Off the Water

Before you start disassembling the faucet, make sure the water is turned off. Find the shutoff valve that controls the water supply to the faucet in question, and turn it clockwise to close it. The shutoff valve is usually located under the sink or in some cases in a utility room.

Then open the faucet to drain any remaining water in the pipes, and leave it open throughout the repair process.

Step 2: Disassemble the Faucet

Now it's time to take the faucet apart to find the defective part. There are different types of faucets, but most follow the same basic design:

1. Locate the cap: Most faucets have a decorative cap on top of the handle. Often there's a small "H" (hot) or "C" (cold) or a red/blue mark. This cap needs to be removed to access the screw underneath.
2. Remove the cap: Use a flat screwdriver to carefully pry off the cap. Be careful not to scratch or damage the cap.
3. Loosen the screw: Under the cap, you'll find a screw that holds the handle in place. Loosen this screw with a screwdriver.
4. Remove the handle: After loosening the screw, you can now remove the handle. Sometimes you may need to wiggle it a bit to get it loose.
5. Detach the valve seat: Under the handle, you'll typically find a nut or a ceramic disc. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen and remove this part.

Step 3: Find and Replace the Defective Washer

Now you should be able to see the valve seat and the washer, which is the part that most often causes drips. The washer is typically a small rubber or plastic ring that may be worn, broken, or filled with limescale.

Take out the old washer and bring it to the hardware store to find an exact replacement if you haven't already bought a new one. Otherwise, compare it with the new washers you've purchased.

Before installing the new washer, check the valve seat for limescale or damage. If there's limescale, you can clean it with vinegar or limescale remover. If the valve seat is damaged (has scratches or nicks), it may need to be replaced entirely or have a professional grind it.

Step 4: Reassemble the Faucet

Now it's time to put the faucet back together in reverse order:

1. Place the new washer in position.
2. Apply a little silicone grease to the valve seat if you have it (this helps extend the lifespan).
3. Reinstall the valve seat and tighten it with the wrench - but be careful not to overtighten it.
4. Put the handle back and secure it with the screw.
5. Snap the cap back into place.

Step 5: Test Your Repair

Now it's time to test if the repair was successful:

1. Make sure the faucet is closed.
2. Open the shutoff valve slowly and check for leaks.
3. Open and close the faucet a few times to ensure it works properly.
4. Keep an eye on the faucet for the next few hours to make sure it doesn't drip.

Common Problems and Solutions

Faucet Still Drips After Replacing the Washer

If the faucet still drips after replacing the washer, there could be several reasons:

• The valve seat is damaged and needs to be replaced or ground.
• There might be another washer that also needs to be replaced.
• The faucet may be too old and should be replaced entirely.

Water Leaks Around the Handle

If water leaks around the handle, it may be the O-ring on the valve stem that needs to be replaced.

Prevention

To avoid future problems with dripping faucets:

• Avoid closing the faucet too tightly, as this can damage the washer.
• Clean regularly to prevent limescale buildup.
• Consider installing a faucet with a ceramic disc, as these are generally more durable.

Fixing a dripping faucet is a simple task that most homeowners can handle. Not only do you save money on plumbing bills, but you also reduce your water consumption and eliminate the annoying sound of dripping water. With a little patience and the right tools, you can quickly solve the problem and be proud of your do-it-yourself project.