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A leaky bathroom faucet can waste hundreds of liters of water each month, increasing your water bill and potentially causing plumbing issues. Fixing a dripping faucet promptly can save money, conserve water, and prevent faucet damage. Whether you have a single-handle faucet, double-handle faucet, or a cartridge-based system, knowing how to troubleshoot and repair leaks is essential.
Over time, the washers and O-rings in your faucet can wear out due to continuous water pressure and friction, leading to leaks. The rubber washers in compression faucets deteriorate faster, while O-rings, which seal the faucet handle, may harden or become loose, allowing water to escape.
Signs of Worn-Out Washers and O-Rings:
Solution:
The valve seat is the connection point between the faucet and spout. Over time, mineral deposits and corrosion can cause leaks at the base of the faucet. Similarly, if your faucet has a cartridge system, a damaged cartridge can lead to continuous water drips.
How to Fix:
Over time, screws, nuts, and seals inside the faucet can loosen due to constant use, leading to leaks. A loose connection may also cause water pressure fluctuations.
Steps to Fix:
Adjustable wrench – Essential for removing and tightening faucet components.
Flathead and Phillips screwdriver – Used to unscrew faucet handles and components.
Plumber’s tape – Helps reinforce seals and prevent minor leaks.
Bucket & rags – To catch dripping water and avoid mess.
Allen wrench – Required for certain faucet types, such as ball faucets.
Rubber washers – Essential for compression faucets to stop leaks.
Cartridges – If your faucet uses a cartridge system, replacing the old one can fix leaks.
O-rings and gaskets – Used to seal faucet handles and prevent leakage.
Faucet aerator – Can become clogged, restricting water flow and causing leaks.
Before working on the faucet, shut off the water supply valves located under the sink. If your sink doesn’t have dedicated shutoff valves, turn off the main water supply.
Turn on the faucet to drain remaining water
Place a bucket or towel beneath the sink to catch any dripping water
Ensure the faucet is completely dry before proceeding
To access the internal components of the faucet, you’ll need to remove the handle and spout.
Use a screwdriver to remove the handle’s decorative cap
Unscrew the handle and lift it off
Remove the retaining nut to expose the faucet cartridge or washer
If the washer is worn out, replace it with a new rubber washer
If the O-ring is cracked, install a new one
If the cartridge is faulty, swap it out for a matching replacement
Clean any mineral buildup inside the faucet components
Reassemble the faucet in reverse order
Turn the water supply back on
Test the faucet by running water to check for leaks
Clean the aerator regularly to prevent sediment buildup
Replace washers and O-rings every few years as part of preventive maintenance
Inspect and tighten connections every six months to prevent minor leaks from worsening
Avoid overtightening handles, as this can wear out internal components
Investing in a high-efficiency faucet can help prevent leaks, reduce water waste, and lower utility bills. Consider a touchless faucet or one with ceramic disc valves, which are more durable than traditional compression-style faucets.
If the leak persists even after replacing washers and cartridges
If the water pressure is low, indicating a possible pipe issue
If corrosion or rust is present inside the faucet components
If your faucet is over 10 years old and frequently leaks
A leaky bathroom faucet isn’t just annoying—it’s wasting water and money! If you’ve tried DIY repairs without success, our licensed Calgary plumbers can fix it quickly and affordably.
