Best Way How To Fix A Leaky Kitchen Faucet

No home is complete without a quality tap in the kitchen. A properly installed and regularly maintained kitchen faucet allows us to wash dishes comfortably and hold water back like a dam. However, even the strongest of us can slacken over time. This can happen to a kitchen faucet as well.

Many may seem that a few drops from a leaky tap are a trifle that is not worth wasting your time on. However, over time, those few drops turn into big water bills, mold around the tap, and end up with a kitchen faucet replacement.

To prevent this, you should repair your leaky tap as soon as you notice a problem. It is quite simple to do this. And to avoid mistakes, you can read our article. In it, we will tell you about the critical aspects of repairing a faucet, what tools you need for the job, and provide step-by-step instructions.

How to Fix a Leaking Kitchen Faucet

A leaky tap is more than just a nuisance. It can waste gallons of water each day, and it can also drive up your water bill. So, how do you know if you have a leaky tap? Here are a few telltale signs: 

• Water stains on the sink or countertop.
• Dampness underneath the sink. 
• Mold or mildew around the sink area. 
• A hissing sound coming from the tap. 
• Your water bill is higher than usual. 

Tools and materials you’ll need to fix dripping kitchen faucet:

• Screwdriver.
• Wrench.
• Replacement washer (if needed).
• Teflon tape (optional).
• Plumber’s putty (optional).

Step-By-Step Instructions for Fixing Dripping Kitchen Faucet

A dripping kitchen faucet is not only annoying, but it’s also a waste of water. If your tap is leaking, don’t despair – it’s a relatively easy problem to fix:

1. Turn off the water in the sink. This can be done by using the switch under the sink or turning off the water supply to the house.
2. Remove the handle from the tap. Unscrew it with a head screwdriver or Allen wrench. Pry the handle with a flathead screwdriver to remove it.
3. You should now be able to see a metal ring holding the valve in place after removing the handle. This ring can be loosened and removed with an adjustable wrench.
4. Now that the valve is exposed look at the rubber washer on it. If this washer is damaged or worn out, it’s likely the cause of your leaky faucet. Remove the old washer and replace it with a new one of the same size and shape. 
5. Reassemble the valve by putting the metal ring back and tightening it with an adjustable wrench until snug. 
6. Put the handle back on and screw it in place with the head screw (or Allen wrench). 
7. Finally, turn on your water supply and test your newly repaired kitchen faucet! No more leaks!

Tips for Preventing Future Water Dripping in Faucet

A dripping tap is not only annoying, but it can also be expensive. A single leak can waste up to 3,000 gallons of water annually, which adds up quickly. The good news is that most leaks are relatively easy to fix – and even easier to prevent. Here are a few tips to keep your kitchen faucet from leaking:

1. Tighten the nut underneath the sink. If your faucet is leaking at the base, chances are it’s because the nut that holds the faucet in place is loose. To fix this, tighten the nut with a wrench until it’s snug. If the nut is too tight, however, you risk stripping it, so be careful not to over-tighten it.
2. Replace the O-Ring. The O-ring is a small rubber ring that provides a seal between the tap and the sink. Over time, these rings can dry out or become cracked, which can cause leaks.
3. Clean or replace the aerator. The aerator is a small screen at the end of the faucet spout. It’s there to aerate the water (i.e., add air to it), providing a better flow while conserving water. Over time, however, this screen can become clogged with mineral deposits, which can restrict water flow and cause leaks. To clean an aerator, unscrew it from the end of the spout and soak it in vinegar overnight. 

What Causes a Faucet to Leak?

A dripping tap is one of the most common household plumbing problems. Though it may seem like a minor issue, a leaking kitchen faucet can waste water and money over time. So, what causes a faucet to leak, and how can you fix it? Let’s take a closer look.

There are several reasons why it may start to drip:

• The most common cause is simply wearing and tear on the washer, O-ring, or other seals. Over time, these components can break down, allowing water to seep through and cause a drip. 
• Another common cause of a dripping tap is changing in water pressure. If the water pressure in your home is too high, it can stress your pipes and cause them to leak. 
• Finally, temperature changes can cause your pipes to expand and contract, leading to leaks.

Types of Kitchen Faucet Dripping and How to Fix Them

A leaky faucet is one of the most common household problems. One study found that the average home has at least one leaky or dripping faucet. Here are some leak types for you:

• Compression Tap Leaks. Compression faucets have two handles that are connected to valves that control water flow through the faucet. Over time, they can become worn out, causing them to leak. 
• Cartridge Tap Leaks. Cartridge faucets use cartridges instead of washers to seal the valves. These cartridges can become worn out over time and cause leaks. 
• Ball Tap Leaks. Ball faucets use a ball with holes in it to control the flow of water. Over time, these balls can become worn out and cause leaks. If your ball tap leaks, you will need to replace the ball. 

Bottom Line

A leaking kitchen faucet can be a nuisance, but it is relatively easy to fix. Following the steps outlined above, you can fix your dripping kitchen faucet in no time. If you are unsure about any of the steps, be sure to consult a professional before attempting to fix the tap yourself.

FAQ