How to Fix a Leaking Faucet in the Bathroom: A Comprehensive Guide
A leaking faucet can be a frustrating and costly problem. Not only does it waste water, but it can also lead to water damage in your bathroom. Fortunately, fixing a leaky faucet is usually a relatively simple task. With a few tools and a little know-how, you can get your faucet back in working order in no time.
Identifying the Type of Leak
The first step in fixing a leaking faucet is to identify the type of leak. There are two main types of leaks:
- Washer leaks occur when the rubber washer that creates a seal between the faucet handle and the body of the faucet becomes worn or damaged. This type of leak is usually easy to spot because water will drip from around the base of the handle.
- Cartridge leaks occur when the cartridge that controls the flow of water in the faucet becomes worn or damaged. This type of leak is usually more difficult to spot because water will leak from the spout of the faucet.
Tools and Materials You'll Need
Once you've identified the type of leak, you'll need to gather the following tools and materials:
- Adjustable wrench
- Replacement washer (for washer leaks)
- Replacement cartridge (for cartridge leaks)
- Plumber's putty
- Teflon tape
- Phillips screwdriver
- Flathead screwdriver
Step-by-Step Instructions
For Washer Leaks:
- Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
- Remove the handle by unscrewing the screws that hold it in place.
- Remove the old washer and replace it with a new one.
- Apply a thin layer of plumber's putty around the base of the handle.
- Reinstall the handle and tighten the screws.
- Turn on the water supply and check for leaks.
For Cartridge Leaks:
- Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
- Remove the handle by pulling it straight up.
- Unscrew the retaining nut that holds the cartridge in place.
- Pull the cartridge out of the faucet body.
- Insert the new cartridge into the faucet body and tighten the retaining nut.
- Reinstall the handle.
- Turn on the water supply and check for leaks.
Tips for Preventing Future Leaks
Here are a few tips to help prevent future leaks in your bathroom faucets:
- Don't overtighten the faucet handles.
- Replace the washers in your faucets every few years.
- If you're not comfortable repairing a leaky faucet yourself, call a plumber.
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