DIY: How to Fix a Leaky Bathroom Faucet (Step-by-Step Guide)
A leaky bathroom faucet isn’t just annoying; it’s a drain on your wallet (literally!). Those constant drips add up, wasting gallons of water and potentially causing water damage over time. The good news is that fixing a leaky faucet is often a DIY project that can save you money and give you a sense of accomplishment. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, step-by-step, covering various faucet types and common issues.
## Before You Begin: Preparation is Key
Before diving into the repair, proper preparation is crucial. This includes identifying your faucet type, gathering the necessary tools and parts, and taking essential safety precautions.
**1. Identify Your Faucet Type:**
Knowing your faucet type is essential because the repair procedures differ slightly. Here are the most common types:
* **Compression Faucets:** These are the oldest and simplest type. They have separate hot and cold water handles that you twist to turn the water on and off. They are identified by having two handles and requiring a firm tightening to stop the water flow. Leaks are very common at the handle stem or spout.
* **Cartridge Faucets:** These faucets have a single lever handle that controls both the water flow and temperature. They are easy to identify by the smooth operation of the handle. Cartridge faucets often leak from the base of the spout or around the handle.
* **Ball Faucets:** Another single-handle faucet, the ball faucet is recognizable by its ball-shaped cam assembly under the handle. These faucets have many parts, making them prone to leaks. The leaks typically occur around the handle or spout.
* **Ceramic Disc Faucets:** These are the most modern and durable type. They have a single lever handle that moves up and down for volume control and side to side for temperature. They are known for their smooth operation and are generally the most reliable, but leaks can still occur, usually around the spout.
**2. Gather Your Tools and Materials:**
Having the right tools on hand will make the repair process smoother and more efficient. Here’s a list of essentials:
* **Adjustable Wrench:** For loosening and tightening nuts and connections.
* **Basin Wrench (Sink Wrench):** Specifically designed to reach those hard-to-access nuts under the sink.
* **Screwdrivers:** Both Phillips head and flathead, in various sizes.
* **Pliers:** For gripping and manipulating small parts.
* **Allen Wrench Set:** Some faucets use Allen screws to secure handles or other components.
* **Penetrating Oil:** To loosen corroded or stuck parts (e.g., WD-40).
* **White Vinegar or Calcium Lime Rust Remover:** To dissolve mineral buildup on faucet parts.
* **Plumber’s Grease (Silicone Grease):** To lubricate O-rings and other parts for smooth operation and prevent future leaks.
* **Plumber’s Tape (Teflon Tape):** For sealing threaded connections.
* **New Faucet Parts:** O-rings, washers, cartridges, or valve seats, depending on the cause of the leak. *Crucially, identify the correct replacement parts *before* you start. Take the old parts to a hardware store for comparison or search online using the faucet manufacturer and model number.*
* **Clean Rags or Towels:** For cleaning up spills and protecting surfaces.
* **Small Container:** For holding small parts so they don’t get lost.
* **Flashlight or Headlamp:** To improve visibility under the sink.
**3. Safety First: Water and Power:**
* **Turn Off the Water Supply:** Locate the shut-off valves under the sink for both hot and cold water. Turn them clockwise until they are completely closed. If you can’t find shut-off valves under the sink, you’ll need to turn off the main water supply to your house. This is usually located in the basement or near the water meter. *Test that the water is off by turning on the faucet. If only a trickle comes out, you’ve successfully shut off the water.*
* **Plug the Drain:** Place a stopper or a rag in the drain to prevent small parts from falling down the drain. *This is vitally important, as losing a small screw down the drain can derail the entire project.*
* **Optional: Disconnect the Garbage Disposal:** If you have a garbage disposal, consider disconnecting it from the power source for added safety. *This prevents accidental activation while you’re working under the sink.*
## Step-by-Step Repair Guides (Based on Faucet Type)
Now that you’re prepared, let’s get to the repair. Follow the instructions for your specific faucet type:
### 1. Repairing a Compression Faucet
Compression faucets are the most prone to leaks due to the wear and tear on their rubber washers. Here’s how to fix a leaky compression faucet:
**Steps:**
1. **Shut off the water supply:** As described above.
2. **Remove the Handle:**
* Most compression faucets have a decorative cap on top of the handle. Use a small flathead screwdriver or a knife to gently pry off the cap.
* Underneath the cap, you’ll find a screw. Remove the screw with the appropriate screwdriver.
* Carefully pull the handle straight up to remove it. *Sometimes, the handle can be stuck due to mineral buildup. Try gently wiggling it back and forth while pulling upward. Avoid using excessive force.*
3. **Remove the Packing Nut:**
* Underneath the handle, you’ll see a packing nut (also called a stem nut). Use an adjustable wrench to loosen and remove the packing nut. *Turn the wrench counterclockwise to loosen the nut. If the nut is stuck, apply some penetrating oil and let it sit for a few minutes before trying again.*
4. **Remove the Stem (Valve Stem):**
* Once the packing nut is removed, you can pull out the valve stem. *This is the part that controls the flow of water. It has a long, threaded body and a rubber washer at the bottom.*
5. **Inspect and Replace the Washer:**
* At the bottom of the valve stem, you’ll find a rubber washer held in place by a screw. Remove the screw and take off the old washer.
* Inspect the washer for wear and tear. If it’s cracked, worn, or hardened, it needs to be replaced.
* Install the new washer and secure it with the screw. *Make sure the washer is seated properly and the screw is tightened securely.*
6. **Inspect and Replace the O-Ring (Optional):**
* Some compression faucets also have an O-ring around the valve stem. Inspect the O-ring for damage. If it’s cracked or worn, replace it. *Roll the O-ring onto the stem carefully to avoid damaging it. Lubricate the new O-ring with plumber’s grease before installing it.*
7. **Inspect the Valve Seat:**
* The valve seat is the part of the faucet body that the washer presses against to shut off the water. It’s located at the bottom of the faucet body, inside the sink.
* Shine a flashlight into the faucet body to inspect the valve seat. If it’s corroded or damaged, it needs to be repaired or replaced. *Special tools, called valve seat wrenches or valve seat dressers, are available to repair or replace valve seats. This may be a task for a professional plumber if you’re not comfortable with it.*
8. **Reassemble the Faucet:**
* Apply plumber’s grease to the threads of the valve stem.
* Insert the valve stem back into the faucet body.
* Tighten the packing nut with the adjustable wrench. *Don’t overtighten the packing nut, as this can make it difficult to turn the handle.*
* Reattach the handle and secure it with the screw.
* Replace the decorative cap.
9. **Turn the Water Supply Back On:**
* Slowly turn the shut-off valves counterclockwise to turn the water supply back on. *Check for leaks around the handle and spout. If you see any leaks, tighten the packing nut slightly. If the leak persists, you may need to disassemble the faucet again and check the washer and O-ring.*
### 2. Repairing a Cartridge Faucet
Cartridge faucets are generally easier to repair than compression faucets. The most common cause of leaks is a worn-out cartridge.
**Steps:**
1. **Shut off the water supply:** As described above.
2. **Remove the Handle:**
* Cartridge faucets usually have a set screw located on the side or back of the handle. Use an Allen wrench to loosen the set screw. *The size of the Allen wrench will vary depending on the faucet model. Make sure you use the correct size to avoid stripping the screw.*
* Once the set screw is loosened, pull the handle straight up to remove it. *Some handles may be held in place by a decorative cap. Remove the cap first to access the set screw.*
3. **Remove the Retaining Clip:**
* Underneath the handle, you’ll see a retaining clip that holds the cartridge in place. Use pliers or a screwdriver to carefully remove the retaining clip. *Be careful not to damage the clip, as you’ll need to reuse it.*
4. **Remove the Old Cartridge:**
* Once the retaining clip is removed, you can pull out the old cartridge. *The cartridge may be stuck due to mineral buildup. Try gently wiggling it back and forth while pulling upward. You can also use pliers to grip the cartridge and pull it out. If the cartridge is very difficult to remove, you can purchase a cartridge puller tool.*
5. **Install the New Cartridge:**
* Before installing the new cartridge, make sure the faucet body is clean and free of debris.
* Align the new cartridge with the faucet body and push it in until it is fully seated. *Make sure the cartridge is installed in the correct orientation. There is usually a mark or label on the cartridge indicating the correct direction.*
6. **Replace the Retaining Clip:**
* Reinstall the retaining clip to secure the new cartridge in place.
7. **Reattach the Handle:**
* Reattach the handle and tighten the set screw.
8. **Turn the Water Supply Back On:**
* Slowly turn the shut-off valves counterclockwise to turn the water supply back on. *Check for leaks around the handle and spout. If you see any leaks, make sure the cartridge is fully seated and the retaining clip is properly installed.*
### 3. Repairing a Ball Faucet
Ball faucets have more parts than other types of faucets, which can make them a bit more challenging to repair. However, with patience and careful attention to detail, you can usually fix a leaky ball faucet yourself.
**Steps:**
1. **Shut off the water supply:** As described above.
2. **Loosen the Set Screw:**
* The set screw is usually located on the side of the handle. Use an Allen wrench to loosen the set screw.
3. **Remove the Handle:**
* Once the set screw is loosened, pull the handle straight up to remove it.
4. **Loosen the Cap and Collar:**
* Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the cap and collar. *Turn the wrench counterclockwise to loosen the cap and collar. Be careful not to damage the finish on the faucet.*
5. **Remove the Ball and Cam Assembly:**
* Once the cap and collar are loosened, you can remove the ball and cam assembly. *The ball is a metal ball with slots that control the flow of water. The cam assembly consists of several small parts, including the cam, packing, and adjusting ring.*
6. **Inspect and Replace the O-Rings and Springs:**
* Underneath the ball, you’ll find two O-rings and two springs. These parts are common causes of leaks in ball faucets. Inspect the O-rings and springs for wear and tear. If they’re cracked, worn, or corroded, replace them.
* Use a small screwdriver or pick to carefully remove the old O-rings and springs. *Be careful not to scratch the faucet body.*
* Install the new O-rings and springs. *Make sure the springs are properly seated in their holes.*
7. **Inspect and Replace the Seats and Springs (Optional):**
* Deeper within the faucet body are the valve seats and springs. These can also wear out and cause leaks. Replacing them requires a bit more disassembly but can solve persistent leak problems.
8. **Reassemble the Faucet:**
* Place the ball and cam assembly back into the faucet body.
* Tighten the cap and collar with the adjustable wrench. *Don’t overtighten the cap and collar, as this can damage the faucet.*
* Reattach the handle and tighten the set screw.
9. **Turn the Water Supply Back On:**
* Slowly turn the shut-off valves counterclockwise to turn the water supply back on. *Check for leaks around the handle and spout. If you see any leaks, try tightening the cap and collar slightly. If the leak persists, you may need to disassemble the faucet again and check the O-rings and springs.*
### 4. Repairing a Ceramic Disc Faucet
Ceramic disc faucets are generally very reliable, but they can still develop leaks over time. The most common cause of leaks is a worn-out or damaged ceramic disc cartridge.
**Steps:**
1. **Shut off the water supply:** As described above.
2. **Remove the Handle:**
* Ceramic disc faucets usually have a set screw located on the side or back of the handle. Use an Allen wrench to loosen the set screw.
* Once the set screw is loosened, pull the handle straight up to remove it.
3. **Remove the Decorative Escutcheon (Optional):**
* Some ceramic disc faucets have a decorative escutcheon that covers the cartridge. If your faucet has an escutcheon, you’ll need to remove it to access the cartridge. *The escutcheon may be held in place by screws or by a friction fit.*
4. **Remove the Cylinder Cap:**
* Underneath the handle (and escutcheon, if applicable), you’ll see a cylinder cap. Unscrew the cylinder cap. *This may require pliers or a specific wrench if it’s tightly secured.*
5. **Remove the Ceramic Disc Cylinder:**
* Carefully lift out the ceramic disc cylinder. *Note the orientation of the cylinder as you remove it. There may be markings to help you reinstall it correctly.*
6. **Inspect and Clean the Ceramic Discs:**
* Examine the ceramic discs for any cracks, chips, or mineral buildup. Even small imperfections can cause leaks.
* Clean the discs with white vinegar or a calcium lime rust remover to remove any mineral deposits. *Rinse the discs thoroughly with clean water after cleaning.*
7. **Replace the O-Rings (Optional):**
* There are often O-rings around the ceramic disc cylinder. Inspect these O-rings for wear and tear. If they’re cracked or worn, replace them.
8. **Reassemble the Faucet:**
* Reinstall the ceramic disc cylinder, making sure it’s in the correct orientation.
* Screw the cylinder cap back on.
* Reattach the decorative escutcheon (if applicable).
* Reattach the handle and tighten the set screw.
9. **Turn the Water Supply Back On:**
* Slowly turn the shut-off valves counterclockwise to turn the water supply back on. *Check for leaks around the handle and spout. If you see any leaks, make sure the ceramic disc cylinder is properly installed and the cylinder cap is tightened securely.*
## Troubleshooting Common Faucet Problems
Even with the best instructions, you might encounter some challenges during the repair process. Here are some common problems and how to address them:
* **The Faucet Handle is Stuck:**
* Apply penetrating oil around the base of the handle and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, gently wiggle the handle back and forth while pulling upward.
* If the handle is still stuck, you can try using a handle puller tool.
* **The Packing Nut is Stuck:**
* Apply penetrating oil to the packing nut and let it sit for a few minutes.
* Use a wrench to gently tap on the packing nut. This can help to loosen it.
* If the packing nut is still stuck, you can try using a propane torch to heat it up. *Be careful not to overheat the nut, as this can damage the faucet.*
* **The Faucet Continues to Leak After Repair:**
* Double-check that all the parts are properly installed and tightened.
* Make sure you’ve replaced all the necessary parts, such as washers, O-rings, and cartridges.
* Inspect the valve seat for damage.
* If the leak persists, there may be a more serious problem with the faucet, such as a cracked faucet body. In this case, it may be necessary to replace the entire faucet.
* **Stripped Screws:**
* If a screw is stripped, try using a rubber band or steel wool between the screwdriver and the screw head to provide more grip.
* You can also try using a screw extractor tool.
* If all else fails, you may need to drill out the screw and replace it.
## Preventing Future Leaks
Once you’ve fixed your leaky faucet, there are a few things you can do to help prevent future leaks:
* **Regularly Inspect Your Faucets:** Check your faucets for leaks on a regular basis. The earlier you catch a leak, the easier it will be to fix.
* **Lubricate Faucet Parts:** Periodically lubricate the faucet parts with plumber’s grease. This will help to prevent corrosion and wear.
* **Avoid Over-Tightening:** Over-tightening faucet handles and nuts can damage the faucet and cause leaks.
* **Use a Water Softener:** Hard water can cause mineral buildup in faucets, which can lead to leaks. If you have hard water, consider installing a water softener.
## When to Call a Professional Plumber
While many faucet repairs can be done as DIY projects, there are times when it’s best to call a professional plumber. Consider hiring a plumber if:
* You’re not comfortable working with plumbing.
* You’ve tried to repair the faucet yourself and haven’t been successful.
* The leak is severe or causing water damage.
* You suspect there may be a more serious plumbing problem.
* The valve seat is damaged and requires specialized tools.
Fixing a leaky bathroom faucet is a manageable DIY project that can save you money and water. By following this comprehensive guide and taking your time, you can successfully repair your faucet and prevent future leaks. Remember to prioritize safety, identify your faucet type, gather the necessary tools, and don’t hesitate to call a professional if you’re unsure about any part of the process. Good luck!