Whenever a faucet leaks, it is usually due to a worn out washer or seal. This can be a straight forward fix for Do-it-yourself homeowners. However, if you prefer the assistance of a professional plumber for your plumbing in Abilene, Texas then give Midway Plumbing a call today. Below, for Do-it-yourself homeowners, you can follow these steps for replacing the washer or seal in your faucet.
First, assemble what you’ll need for repairing the faucet:
- A towel to absorb water that may leak
- Screwdriver
- Crescent wrench
- Channel lock pliers
Next, cut off the water supply to the faucet. There may be a cut off valve on each water supply line, or you may have to cut the water off at the water meter. Next, open the faucet and allow the water to drain out before beginning the repair.
Third, how you disassemble the faucet will depend upon what type it is, one-handle or two-handle and whether it is washer-less or not. The following is a guide on the most common faucet repairs. With the two-knob faucet you will have to replace both seats or washers to each handle depending upon the type.
Disassembly begins by prying up the cold/hot inserts. Use a screwdriver to remove the screw in the handles which should then lift out. You should see two nuts. Unscrew the larger of the two, only one needs to be unscrewed to remove the faucet stem. Remove the stem by unscrewing it in a counterclockwise direction with a crescent wrench. On some faucets the stem simply lifts out for faucet repair. Next, we will address the repair by type.
Washer-type faucets use a washer that closes onto a metal washer seat. The washer can harden or become worn causing leaks and necessitating faucet repair. Replacing all the washers while the faucet is disassembled for faucet repair is the best bet to assure replacement of the leaking washer. The washer at the tail of the stem is called the seat washer. The packing washers are at the center of the stem. Examine the stem carefully, if the threads are badly worn or corroded take it with you and buy replacements along with the washers. Replace the brass screw if it is damaged. If corrosion is due to hard water you may be able to clean it with vinegar and a toothbrush otherwise it’s best to just replace any worn parts during faucet repair. For professional plumbing in Abilene, Texas to deal with your hard water problems, contact Midway Plumbing.
On the other hand, prepackaged repair kits are usually available for the washer-less faucet. Repair on this type faucet is varied according to brand and model. Follow instructions as indicated with kits.
Finally, screw in the valve and reattach the guard followed by the handles.
If your faucet repair is in the shower, seal around the faucet where it touches the shower wall with caulk.
If the repair doesn’t stop the leak, the faucet may require replacement. This is usually a job for a licensed plumber that provides plumbing in Abilene, Texas but the skilled do it yourself homeowner may opt to replace it themselves. While there are many types of faucets the following instructions apply to the most common.
First, choose a replacement faucet. Keep in mind, not all faucets are interchangeable. Get an exact measurement for the holes of your old faucet. Take your old faucet with you to find a replacement that will fit.
To remove the old faucet you must disconnect it from the water supply and loosen the two nuts that attach it to the sink using a basin wrench, or channel lock pliers. Be careful not to break the water lines.
Next, line your new faucet up with supply lines, wrap a few turns of Teflon tape to the pipe threads and fasten using the pipe wrench. Follow the manufacturer’s directions closely to ensure a leak free fit.
Finally, turn the water back on and observe for leaks. If leaks are noted cut the water off, check all connections and tighten nuts and screws. If you still have a leak, remove the faucet and start over.
Faucet repair and replacement can be accomplished by the experienced do it yourself homeowner. However, if your faucet continues to leak our professional plumbers that provide plumbing in Abilene, Texas are only a phone call away. Let us show you how we can help you when you require faucet repair by an experienced and professional plumber that provide plumbing in Abilene, Texas.
