Some of the problems often take our level or irritation to another level and I think a leaky bathroom faucet will easily make it on the top of that list. So, if you can learn how to fix a leaky bathroom sink faucet, then I think you might be able to save some bucks too.
It might not always be easy to detect the reason for the leak. But yet it is highly essential, as you don’t want to ruin your day over it.
Repairing the leaky bathroom faucet can be quite tricky, but not impossible. If you read this article then you won’t need to buy a bathroom sink faucet or call any professional plumber to fix this problem. This is your DIY project that is also inexpensive and can be done simply.
Here I’m going to discuss the most simple and basic steps to solve this leaky faucet problem.
Tools and Supplies You’ll Need To Fix The Leaky Faucet
Before you start the project, you should keep in mind all the necessary tools. Collecting tools can help to shorten the amount of time to complete the project. But you need a list of required tools and materials. Here is the list of materials that you need to fix the leaky bathroom sink.
- Allen wrenches
- Flathead screwdriver
- Adjustable wrench
- Channel-lock pliers
- White vinegar
- Scouring pad
- Replacement faucet cartridge
- Phillips-head screwdriver
- Spray penetrating oil
- Washers and seals
Take These Precautions Before You Start
All these tools I’ve mentioned will need according to the steps of fixing the leaky faucet problem. But this is not enough to make the process easy. You also need to take some precautions.
- Take a rag and cover the sink drain to catch the dropped parts.
- Close the sink drain
- Shut off the water supply that is connected to the sink
- Select a place where you need to lay all the parts in order to removal
- To avoid scratching the fixtures, tape the jaws of the wrench
- Use duct tape for layering the jaws
How To Fix A Leaky Bathroom Sink Faucet- Step By Step Guideline
To complete this project without any hassle, we are going to discuss it in a few steps. These steps are the most basic task for fixing a leaky faucet. Let’s discuss all the details.
Shut off the Water supply
The sink is always connected with the water supply line. Make sure that the water supply line is turned off before you start. If you forget to do it, then you may face an instant flood while you work. There is a shut-off valve under the sink that is connected with the fixtures.
Turn the handle clockwise for shutting it off. You can also shut off the main water line if there is no valve with the fixture. To be sure, you can turn on the faucet. Now take a cloth and cover the drain with it to make sure you don’t lose any small parts in the drain. You can also use a stopper for this purpose.
Remove the Faucet Handles
There are various types of faucet available. According to types the handle also different. Most of the faucet handles can be removed with a flathead screwdriver. Take the decorative caps off first and take out the handle screw. Now pull the handle to detach it from your faucet.
Some models of faucet handle come with hex setscrew. After loosening them, you can lift off the handle. Most of the time, these screws get corroded. Take some oil and lubricate the parts. Keep it in mind the order of disassembled parts of the faucet. It’s important to reinstall them later.
Removing the Cartridge or Valve Stem
Now you can see the cartridge or inner valve steam after removing the handle. Extract this part from the faucet. But the process is different that depends on the design of the faucet. Some Valve steam can be unscrewed easily from the body. This option is available only for the compression faucet.
In the cartridge faucet, you will find a plastic or brass cartridge. It’s easy to extract by pulling straight. If you can see the collar nut, then remove it first, so that you can remove the cartridge.
Inspection of the parts
There are various types of parts are available in the faucet. It also depends on the design and types of faucet. Rubber O-ring is the most common part of faucets. There are some as well not only with traditional rubber washers but also ring-shaped rubber seals. In the single handle faucet, the design comes with a large and single O-ring. These two parts basically used for sealing the spout. Maybe the water of the faucet leaking from the base. This seal is used to prevent the leak around the base.
You’ll see the use of another seal in the valve’s brass body. There are springs and rubber seal as well. Now check out the removable parts. For this, you need to inspect it carefully.
Replacing Parts if necessary
Maybe some parts of the faucet are damaged or not functioning well. Find out and replace them. But finding the single damage parts is hard. The best suggestion is replacing all the removable parts if it’s possible for you. It will minimize the chances of leaks in the future.
Most of the people tune up the total faucet. In the local store, you will find most of the parts of the faucet. So, go to the hardware store to show them the parts and get the new one to replace them. Make sure that, the parts are exactly the same as your old one.
Clean the Valves
After removing every part of the faucet inspect the valve body. Maybe some parts become roughened or pitted. Take some white vinegar and pour it over the valve. Let it soak for a few minutes. Take a nylon pad to scrub and clean the surface perfectly. With clean water rinse the valves and remove dirt and debris.
Reassemble
It’s time to reassemble all the parts of the faucet. You just need to reverse the order of the uninstalling process. Take a look at all the parts you removed from the faucet. After installing all the parts again, turn the water supply on. Look closely and try to find out about more leaks of the faucet, especially the leaked spot you are trying to fix.
Tips:
There are a few things you should know about the faucet. It controls the flow of the water. For a faucet, there are some common problems. Let’s have a glance over the reasons for faucet leaking.
- Mineral scales can build up easily on the inner parts of the faucet. Even it can decrease the ability to seal the water inlets.
- The body of the faucet can be corroded easily. This culprit can damage the part and break the seal of the water.
You also need to know about the time to replace the faucet. When you notice the following situation, replace the faucet.
- When inner parts of the faucet facing extensive corrosion problem
- When multiple areas are leaking
- When damage is visible
Hard to find parts to replace.
Final Verdict
To solve the irritating problem of water dripping, you should know the method of fixing a leaky bathroom sink faucet. Hopefully, this article will help you to gather knowledge about the method. Maybe you are facing a problem with the higher water bill that totally unnecessary. Get the necessary tools, find the types of the faucet and do it yourself. That’s all to solve this irritating problem. We’ve discussed the method for the most common types of faucet. Learning these inexpensive tips can make your day better. It can make you confident and save your money.