How Do You Fix A Dripping Bathroom Faucet

A dripping bathroom faucet is a common plumbing problem that can waste water and increase your water bill. In most cases, you can fix a dripping faucet yourself with a few simple tools and supplies. Here are the essential aspects of fixing a dripping bathroom faucet:

Identify the Type of Faucet

The first step is to identify the type of faucet you have. There are two main types of faucets: compression faucets and cartridge faucets. Compression faucets have a washer that seals the water flow, while cartridge faucets have a cartridge that does the same job. Once you know the type of faucet you have, you can gather the necessary tools and supplies.

Gather the Necessary Tools and Supplies

For most faucet repairs, you will need the following tools and supplies:

Adjustable wrench
Phillips head screwdriver
Flathead screwdriver
Faucet washer (if needed)
Faucet cartridge (if needed)
Plumber's putty
Teflon tape

Turn Off the Water Supply

Before you begin working on the faucet, turn off the water supply to the faucet. There are usually two shut-off valves under the sink, one for the hot water and one for the cold water. Turn the valves clockwise to turn off the water.

Disassemble the Faucet

Once the water supply is turned off, you can disassemble the faucet. The steps involved will vary depending on the type of faucet you have. For compression faucets, you will need to remove the handle, packing nut, and washer. For cartridge faucets, you will need to remove the handle, cap, and cartridge.

Replace the Washer or Cartridge

If the washer or cartridge is worn out or damaged, you will need to replace it. To replace the washer, simply remove the old washer and install the new washer in its place. To replace the cartridge, remove the old cartridge and insert the new cartridge into its place.

Reassemble the Faucet

Once you have replaced the washer or cartridge, you can reassemble the faucet. Be sure to apply plumber's putty to the base of the faucet before you install it. This will help to create a watertight seal. You should also wrap Teflon tape around the threads of the faucet before you install it. This will help to prevent leaks.

Turn on the Water Supply

Once the faucet is reassembled, turn on the water supply and check for leaks. If there are no leaks, then you have successfully fixed the dripping faucet. If there are leaks, check the connections to make sure that they are tight. You may also need to replace the O-rings or gaskets.