Plumbing  /  March 5, 2020

A Guide to Leaky Faucet Fixes

Drip… drip… drip… In terms of household annoyances, dripping faucets are up there with beeping smoke detectors and creaky floorboards. 

As a top provider of home plumbing services across North America, Handyman Connection knows a thing or two about leaky faucets and how to fix them. 

If you’re wondering how to stop the drip fast, check out these steps for fixing a leaky faucet (or reach out to Handyman Connection to tackle the job for you):


How to Fix Leaky Kitchen and Bathroom Faucets


Before Getting Started

Remember to turn off the shut off valve or main water valve to the faucet you’ll be fixing. 


How to Fix a Leaky Sink Faucet


1. First, determine where the leak is coming from. If water is leaking from the spout of the faucet, that means there are parts broken inside. If water is leaking from the base of the faucet, the faucet’s outer seals are likely damaged. 

2. Remove the aerator – if it’s stuck, try using pliers with a towel to gently remove it. 

3. Order a repair kit for the make and model of your faucet – for example, if you have a Delta, single-handle ceramic disk faucet, you’ll want to purchase a repair kit designed for that. 

Not sure which faucet you have? You can take your faucet apart and take the parts to your local home improvement store if you need help finding the right kit. You may also want to replace your faucet’s aerator if it is old or damaged.

4. Using the installation instructions on the repair kit, install the new components within your faucet.

5. Turn the water back on – your faucet should be fixed and ready to go!


How to Fix a Leaky Bathtub Faucet


1. Determine whether the bathtub spout is a thread-on or set-screw model. If you see or feel a screw on the underside of the faucet, it is a set-screw; otherwise, it is most likely a thread-on.

2. Using a pocket knife or box cutter, cut the caulking around the spout and turn the spout counter-clockwise to remove it. If you have a set-screw model, unscrew the screw underneath the spout and remove it. Then, scrape off any leftover caulk or sealant.

3. If necessary, replace the old pipe nipple with a newer, longer one for your new spout.

4. Install your new faucet. Slide the new bathtub faucet over the new pipe nipple. For thread-on models, simply turn the spout clockwise to screw it on. For set-screw models, insert and fasten the screw at the bottom. 

5. Turn the water supply back on and celebrate your newly-working bathtub faucet with a warm, relaxing bath! 


Call the Plumbing Experts at Handyman Connection for an Easier Leaky Faucet Fix

Wondering what the easiest leaky faucet fix is? Having a plumbing expert handle it for you. Call Handyman Connection for professional home plumbing services for fixes of all shapes and sizes. Our qualified craftsmen can tackle a number of plumbing jobs, from leaking faucets to full-on bathroom remodels. Call 1-800-HANDY-88 or request an estimate to get in touch today. 

FREE Project Consultations & Estimates!

Get a Free Estimate

Our craftsmen are here for you.
Get started today

View Locations