The first step to repairing a dripping faucet in your home is to determine the cause of the leak.
While a dripping faucet isn’t an emergency, it should not be ignored. Dripping faucets waste a remarkable amount of water. The first step to repairing a dripping faucet in your Gaithersburg, MD, home is to determine the cause of the leak. Not feeling like fixing it? The W.H. Winegar & Son Plumbing and Heating team is ready to step in to address all your leaky faucet problems, both large and minor.
Broken Washers and O-Rings
Washers that need to be correctly sized and installed adequately or that have worn out often lead to leaking. To replace a faucet washer, complete the following simple steps:
- Shut off the water supply valves under your sink and turn the faucet handles to the “on” position to empty any remaining water from the pipes.
- Remove the handles or knobs to uncover the screw. Now, remove the screw. Also, use a wrench to loosen the locking nut and disconnect the valve stem.
- Unfasten the black washer, screw, and white O-ring.
- Install a new washer and O-ring and replace the screw.
- Then, replace the valve stem and rearrange the knobs or handles. Turn on the water supply lines and test the faucet. You are good to go if no leaks are present.
Corrosion on the Valve Seats
Your faucet’s valve seat is part of the compression mechanism that supports the faucet and spout. In addition, sediment buildup can corrode the valve seat and trigger spout-area leaks. To repair this dripping faucet issue, complete the following:
- Turn the valve seat counterclockwise with a seat wrench.
- Remove the damaged seat and replace it.
- Test the valve seat to see if it moves. If it doesn’t, place a seat sleeve to tighten it.
- Utilize a grinder tool to smooth worn edges.
Improper Water Pressure Level
Strong water pressure can disrupt the water flow through your pipes in your Gaithersburg home, causing leaks. To repair this problem, call us to test your water pressure and readjust it to a proper level.
Weak Cartridges
Cartridge-related faucet leaks are prevalent because so many household faucets are single or double-handled cartridge faucets. In addition, the cartridge is the plastic part in your faucet that manages the water flow. Perform the following steps to repair this dripping faucet problem:
- Turn off the water
- Disconnect any cosmetic handle covers
- Use a screwdriver to take out the handles and nuts with an adjustable wrench and the faulty cartridge.
- Don’t forget to unfasten the retaining nut and clip it if your home has a one-handle faucet.
- Remove the springs and O-rings, replace the previous cartridge, and reassemble the faucet.
Does your Gaithersburg property need assistance repairing a dripping faucet? Call our faucet repair pros today at 301-384-5818!
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