Repairing A Leaky Bathroom Sink Faucet

Repairing a Leaky Bathroom Sink Faucet

A leaky bathroom sink faucet is a common plumbing issue that can be easily fixed with the right tools and materials. By following a few simple steps, you can save yourself the cost of calling a plumber and ensure that your faucet is working properly again in no time.

Essential Materials

Before you begin, gather the following materials:

Replacement faucet washer
Adjustable wrench
Phillips head screwdriver
Pliers
Cloth or rag
Flashlight (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Turn Off the Water Supply

Locate the water shut-off valves beneath the sink and turn them off. This will prevent water from flowing into the faucet while you work.

2. Remove the Faucet Handle

Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the faucet handle in place. Pull the handle straight up to remove it.

3. Remove the Packing Nut

Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the packing nut located just below the handle. The packing nut is usually made of brass or plastic.

4. Replace the Faucet Washer

Locate the faucet washer and remove it. It is usually a small, rubber or plastic ring. Replace the old washer with a new one of the same size.

5. Reinstall the Packing Nut

Hand-tighten the packing nut back onto the faucet stem. Use the adjustable wrench to further tighten the nut, but be careful not to overtighten it.

6. Reattach the Faucet Handle

Slide the faucet handle back onto the stem and secure it with the screws. Turn the handle to ensure that the faucet is working properly.

7. Check for Leaks

Turn on the water supply and check for any leaks. If there are still leaks, you may need to tighten the packing nut further or replace other worn parts of the faucet.

Tips

If you can't find the source of the leak, use a flashlight to inspect the area beneath the sink.
Be careful not to overtighten any nuts or screws, as this can damage the faucet.
If the leak persists after following these steps, it may be necessary to call a plumber for professional assistance.

By following these simple steps, you can quickly and easily repair a leaky bathroom sink faucet and restore it to proper working order.