How to Fix a Leaky Faucet

Got a pesky faucet that’s driving you up a wall?  Not only is it annoying, but it’s a waste of water and could potentially create other problems elsewhere in your home.  Well, don’t shed another tear.  Here’s a great tutorial on how to fix it yourself.

To do the job right, you have to make sure you have the proper tools and materials.  Here’s a checklist before you get started:

• Utility knife
• Faucet cartridge replacement kit
• Screwdriver
• Slip joint pliers

Here’s a step-by-step process for fixing a leaky faucet:

• Turn off the water supply to the faucet under the sink
• Using your utility knife, pop the cap off the handle
• Remove the screw holding the handle in place and pull the entire handle out of the housing
• Using your slip joint pliers, loosen and remove the nut holding the cartridge in place
• Gently remove the old cartridge
• Place the new cartridge back into the slot and reverse the steps
• Turn the water supply back on

Not all faucets are created equal.  However, they do work on the same principal, so whether you have a double unit or a single hybrid for temperature control, you can always find the manufacturers recommendations online when attempting to do a repair job, including the parts they recommend.