Leaky faucets are a common household problem. Not only do they waste water and increase your utility bills, they can also damage your home’s environment. If you find a leaky kitchen, bathroom, basin, or sink faucet, don’t panic. With some simple DIY tips, you can fix the problem without calling a plumber or spending a lot of money. This article will introduce common causes of and fixes for leaky faucets. You’ll also learn faucet maintenance and replacement tips. Follow these guides and you can repair leaky faucets yourself – saving money and worry!
Tips for Leaky Faucets
Where do faucets usually leak?
To repair a leaky faucet, you first need to identify the cause. Generally, faucets can leak for the following reasons:
Common Leak Causes
To fix a leaky faucet, you first need to identify the cause. Generally, leaks can happen for these reasons:
1.Worn valve/cartridge – The cartridge is a small internal part that controls water flow and on/off. After prolonged use, minerals in water can wear down the faucet cartridge, preventing complete shutoff. This is one of the most common causes of leaks.Replacing the cartridge is recommended.
2.Loose inlet joint – If the joint connecting pipes and faucet is loose, it can cause seepage. This may happen if the joint wasn’t fully tightened or water pressure deformed the joint.Wrapping plumber’s tape around the loose joint is recommended.
3.Aged plastic parts – Internal valves, seals, etc. are made of plastic/rubber. After some time, these parts can become brittle, deformed, or cracked, causing leaks. This is another common cause.Replacing aged parts is recommended.
Repair Methods
1.Replace cartridge – Shut off the water supply first. Then use a hex wrench to detach and replace the worn cartridge. Note different faucet models require different sized cartridges. Confirm compatibility before purchasing replacement cartridges. Watch this video for guidance.
2.Wrap inlet joint – Shut off the water supply first. Then wrap plumber’s tape around any loose joint between the pipe and faucet to seal gaps and prevent seepage. Watch this for guidance on wrapping inlet joints.
3.Replace plastic parts – Shut off the water first. Detach and inspect for cracked/worn valves, seals, etc. Replace any damaged plastic or rubber parts. Confirm new parts are compatible before installing. Watch this on plastic part replacement.
4.Apply waterproof sealant – This temporary fix involves coating cracks with waterproof glue or steel glue to reduce dripping. However, sealant doesn’t fully solve the problem. If you want to replace the entire faucet, see our other articles for install/repair guides on various faucet types. You may find these interesting:
If your faucet is outdated or doesn’t suit your needs, consider full faucet replacement. This avoids hunting for obscure parts and ensures your kitchen/bathroom looks its best. However, professional tools and skills are recommended for faucet replacement jobs. Contact a specialist for installation help.
Other Reference Videos
Faucet Maintenance and Replacement
Aside from fixing leaks, proper faucet maintenance can also prolong the lifespan and reduce future leaks. Here are some tips:
- Regular cleaning – Wipe faucet exterior with warm water and mild detergent to remove dirt/mineral buildup. Avoid acidic/abrasive cleaners that can damage the finish.
- Regular inspection – Periodically inspect all faucet parts for looseness, wear, aging. Repair or replace any issues promptly.
- Adjust water pressure – Use a gauge to measure your home’s water pressure. It should be 0.3-0.6MPa. High pressure strains the faucet, causing leaks. Low pressure causes unstable water flow and faucet vibration. Use a pressure regulator to maintain optimal range.
If your faucet is outdated or doesn’t suit your needs, consider full replacement. This avoids hunting for obscure parts and gives your kitchen/bathroom a facelift. However, faucet replacement requires professional tools and skills. Contact a specialist for installation help.
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