Faucets are important in your home for a key reason: they help dispense water. However, due to this, keeping them in great working condition is key. A few things can go wrong with your faucets, such as leaks to noise issues. You might be forced to repair or replace the faucet altogether to solve the issue. This article will show you how you can fix various faucet issues you may have, from leaks to full replacements.
How to repair a leaky faucet
A dripping faucet is a common household problem, yet in most cases goes largely ignored. Though small leaks might not seem like a big problem, it does add up. It’s been estimated that a leak can end up with a cost of almost $30 if left unattended for a long time.
So how do you solve this? The drip is caused when water at high pressure from the water supply encounters a leak. In most cases, the water comes in at a higher pressure, so there should be a proof leak seal that ensures no leakages when the faucet is turned off. This seal is normally created by a washer pressed against the faucet seat. When the washer/faucet is not functioning properly, some water might seep through the faucet spout, causing a drip. To stop the drip, you might have to replace the washer or repair the seat.
Your first move should be to turn off the water supply. What follows after this are the simple steps needed:
- Remove the faucet handle held to the main body by loosening screws that are holding it in place.
- Utilize pliers or an adjustable wrench to twist the stem in the same direction you would turn the stem.
- Remove the screw that holds the washer. Examine it and replace the stem/screw if damaged.
How to fix a noisy faucet
Faucets can be noisy, screechy, or chatter when you turn them on or off. There are usually several causes of this noisy dilemma. If it’s a new house, your water pipes installed might be too small to fit in well with the faucets. Also, if you live in an older home, the pipes might have become restricted with time, resulting in the noisy disturbance.
To fix the problem, you will need to turn off the water before you begin. Replacing the washers or screws should fix the problem.
If the faucet handle is squealing when you turn it, it usually means the stem cells are binding to the faucet thread. You should remove the steam and coat it with petroleum jelly. The jelly should stop the noise and make the turning a bit easier.
If it persists, you can replace the stem completely. If you are having trouble finding the leak, you can use our leak detection service.
How to Replace Your Leaky Faucet
Faucet repairs and installation can seem daunting. Fortunately, new developments have meant that new faucet units come in easy do-it-yourself installations and easy to follow the instructions. Once you select your faucet, follow the advised steps to install it and you will be good to go.
In case you get stranded, you can contact young’s plumbing services and we shall avail ourselves to give you a helping hand.