
Sail into these Summer DIY Projects: How to check for faucet leaks and replace sink faucets.
Summer has arrived, and now you have more time on your hands to make much-needed home repairs or DIY renovations. Is your faucet leaking? Nothing is more frustrating than a leaking faucet. Luckily, repairing a leaky faucet is an easy and inexpensive DIY project.
Leaking faucets are often caused by worn-out stems and cartridges. The faucet cartridge stem regulates the flow of hot and cold water and is located in the faucet handle of the sink. Damaged or worn-out washers can also cause leaks. The washer seals the valve seat, and it can wear out over time leading to a leak. Other faucet parts can also be the source of leaks in the bathroom, shower, or kitchen faucets.
How to repair a leaking faucet?
1. Turn off water
a. Depending on the type of faucet, it may be a single or double handle, but before you begin, you must shut off the water supply. To do this, turn the valve located beneath the sink. Turn on the faucet to alleviate any remaining water in the line.
2. Remove handle
a. Locate the screws and remove them using a flathead or Phillips screwdriver. Take the driver and place it into the head, turning clockwise until fully removed. Varying the type of handle you have, typically, the faucet handle can be removed by pulling up. Other faucets may include pins beneath the screws. Use pliers to grip the pin and pull to remove it.
3. Remove cartridge or stem.
a. The faucet cartridge or stem regulates the flow of hot or cold water. It’s found in most kitchen and bathroom faucet styles. Use a wrench to loosen the cartridge or stem and then remove it.
4. Install new cartridge or stem
a. If the cartridge or stem is identified as the source of the leak, it will need to be replaced.
b. As cartridges or stems come in a variety of shapes and sizes, using the Danco Stem and Cartridge Part Finder is the best way to locate the perfect match for your faucet. To use the Stem and Cartridge Part Finder, take a picture of the part with your phone, review & select the recommended replacement part from search results, and click “Shop Now” to purchase the replacement part.
c. To replace, and clean the area of the handle and parts, replace any worn, damaged O-rings and washers if necessary. The Home Washer Assortment will repair your leaky faucet in no time. The Home Washer Assortment is available on Amazon, Lowes, and the Home Depot.
d. Attach a new cartridge or stem, and be sure it is in place correctly. Repeat process for any additional handles. Once the faucet is fully reassembled, turn the water line back on, running both hot and cold to ensure there are no more leaks!
Add on to this DIY repair by upgrading your faucet handles! The Danco Cross-Arm Handle introduces a touch of style to your faucet. This custom look handle features a cross-style design with a porcelain finish and a chrome metal trim. The Cross-Arm Handle is available at Amazon, Lowes, and Home Depot. Fixing your dripping faucet by repairing the stem or cartridge will save water and keep you from buying an entire new faucet plus, replacing your faucet handles is an easy, affordable way to upgrade the look and functionality of your faucet!