Washing Machine Woes: Tips For Addressing Leaks

How To Replace A Leaky Faucet

A faucet that has been leaking will cost more in the long run because of your water bill than you will pay to replace the faucet. Replacing a faucet doesn't have to be too costly, and you may be able to repair it yourself if you are handy with some tools. If you don't think you can handle the job, you should still have it replaced. Use a professional plumber to do the work for you. Read on for information on how to repair a faucet yourself, if you're up to the job.

Tools For The Job:

• New faucet
• Adjustable pipe wrench
• Rags
• Bucket
• Screwdrivers
• Razor blade

Instructions:

1. To begin with, you need to turn off the water supply to the faucet. This is usually located directly beneath the sink or just to the side of the sink. If you aren't sure where the shutoff valve is located, you can shut off the water to the entire home until the job is done. Never attempt to work on a faucet or any other water supply in your home unless the water is turned off. You'll have a mess on your hands if you don't.
2. Next, make sure you have the proper faucet to replace your old one. The faucet should line up with the existing holes on your sink top. If you only have one hole, you need to replace your old faucet with a one-hole faucet. You'll also have to check out the spacing of the holes. It could be only 4 inches between them, or it could be 8 inches. Be sure to check this first before you purchase your faucet.
3. After you have your faucet and you have turned off the water supply, you can begin disassembling the old faucet. To do this, you need to remove the handles using a screwdriver. After that, remove the covers. Finally, disassemble the rest of the faucet. Use an adjustable pipe wrench to remove the rest of the faucet from beneath the sink where the nuts hold the faucet in place. You'll also need to remove the drain assembly as well. Use rags and a bucket to catch any water left in the drainpipe.
4. Once the faucet is removed, use the razor blade to scrape away any old caulking, or years of hard water that has built up around where the old faucet once sat.
5. Install the new faucet using the instructions that came with it. This will ensure that it is installed correctly. Now, install the drain assembly.
6. After you have finished, turn the water supply back on and allow the water to run through the new faucet. Check for any leaks coming from the faucet head, the handles, or beneath the sink. If you don't find any leaks, your faucet is installed properly.

If you have a leaky faucet, don't allow it to leak and run up your water bill. Install a new faucet or call a professional for plumbing services to install a new one for you.