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Writer's pictureJohn Lockwood Plumbing

5 Steps to Fixing a Leaking Faucet

The constant dripping of a leaking faucet can be a frustrating sound. Even worse, it can also drive up water bills and lead to damage in your home, including mold growth. Luckily, a plumber can often repair the leak quickly with a simple fix. Here are the steps that a professional plumbing service will take to repair your leaky faucet and restore normal water flow in your home.


How a Plumber Will Fix Your Leaking Faucet


1. Shut Off the Water

Most sinks have individual water valves underneath, which can be twisted to stop the flow of water. If not, the main valve must be shut off. Once the water is shut off, the plumber will open the handles to drain any remaining water into the sink so that the plumber can work without further leaks or pooling water.


2. Remove the Faucet Handle

Plumbers carry different tools to ensure they can repair all types of faucets. Some handles require a flathead or Phillips head screwdriver, while others need a hex key wrench. Once the screws are loosened, the faucet handles can be removed to access the components within.


3. Take Out the Valve Stem or Cartridge

Two-handled faucets typically have a valve stem or cartridge to control hot and cold water flow. Some valve stems can be twisted and unscrewed to remove them. If there is a cartridge, there is usually a clip holding it in place. Once unclipped, the cartridge can be removed so that the plumber can access the faucet's interior.


4. Replace Damaged Components

The plumber will inspect the valve or cartridge for damage, then replace the component as needed. They will also inspect other components, including washers, O-rings, and seals, all of which experience wear and tear as the handles are turned. If any of these parts seem corroded or worn out, the plumber will replace them, as well.


5. Reassemble the Faucet

Once the components have been assessed and replaced, the plumber will begin reassembling the faucet. This portion of the repair process is crucial and requires a great deal of focus, as mistakes during reassembly can lead to more leaks and dysfunction. They'll then test the faucet to make sure the leak has stopped.

If you have a leaky faucet, turn to the professional plumbers at John Lockwood Plumbing in Ontario, NY. They can also perform more complex repairs, including clog clearing and water heater installation. They've proudly served customers throughout Monroe, Wayne, and Ontario Counties, NY, since 1973. See their full list of residential plumbing services by visiting the website. You can also call (585) 265-0736 to schedule a plumbing appointment today.

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1 Comment


Lionel Hasenberg
Lionel Hasenberg
Jun 05

I called Plumber Plantation FL specialists for a leaking faucet repair, and they were amazing. Prompt response, fair pricing, and excellent workmanship. The plumber even cleaned up after himself. Great experience!

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