How To Fix Bathroom Sink Faucet

Bathroom sink faucets are a common fixture in most homes. While they are generally reliable, they can occasionally develop problems. The most common problem with bathroom sink faucets is a leak. A leak can occur from the base of the faucet, the handle, or the spout. In most cases, a simple repair can fix the leak. If you are experiencing a problem with your bathroom sink faucet, follow these steps to try to fix it yourself.

1. Identify the source of the leak. The first step is to identify the source of the leak. Look for water dripping from the base of the faucet, the handle, or the spout. Once you have identified the source of the leak, you can begin to fix it.

2. Fix the leak from the base of the faucet. The most common cause of a leak from the base of the faucet is a worn washer. Washers are small rubber rings that create a seal between the faucet and the sink. Over time, washers can wear out and begin to leak. Replacing the washer is a simple repair that can be done in a few minutes.

To replace the washer, first turn off the water supply to the faucet. Then, using a wrench, remove the aerator from the end of the spout. Once the aerator is removed, you will see the washer. Use a screwdriver to remove the washer and replace it with a new one. Finally, reattach the aerator and turn on the water supply.

3. Fix the leak from the handle. A leak from the handle is usually caused by a worn O-ring. O-rings are small rubber rings that create a seal between the handle and the faucet body. Over time, O-rings can wear out and begin to leak. Replacing the O-ring is a simple repair that can be done in a few minutes.

To replace the O-ring, first turn off the water supply to the faucet. Then, use a wrench to remove the handle from the faucet body. Once the handle is removed, you will see the O-ring. Use a screwdriver to remove the O-ring and replace it with a new one. Finally, reattach the handle and turn on the water supply.

4. Fix the leak from the spout. A leak from the spout is usually caused by a worn cartridge. Cartridges are small cylindrical devices that control the flow of water through the faucet. Over time, cartridges can wear out and begin to leak. Replacing the cartridge is a more complex repair than replacing a washer or O-ring, but it is still a relatively simple repair that can be done in about 30 minutes.

To replace the cartridge, first turn off the water supply to the faucet. Then, using a wrench, remove the aerator from the end of the spout. Once the aerator is removed, you will see the cartridge. Use a cartridge puller to remove the cartridge from the faucet body. Once the cartridge is removed, replace it with a new one. Finally, reattach the aerator and turn on the water supply.

If you are unable to fix the leak yourself, you should call a plumber. A plumber will be able to diagnose the problem and repair the faucet quickly and efficiently.