Don’t Let a Leaky Faucet Base Ruin Your Home: DIY Repair Tips

Faucets are the most frequently used fixtures in a household, and over time, they can develop issues like dripping or leaking. What should you do if the faucet base is leaking?

Don’t Let a Leaky Faucet Base Ruin Your Home: DIY Repair Tips

1. If you discover that the base of the faucet is leaking, first turn off the water valve in your home. Unscrew the small screw on top of the faucet handle to remove it. You will likely find a screw on the handle, which may be hidden beneath the button or under the button itself. Open the button and then unscrew the valve core inside.

2. The leak may be due to a loose or damaged valve core, which can be replaced with a new one. After replacing it, reassemble the handle and the button. Turn on the water valve to check if the leak persists. It is also possible that the gasket inside is faulty, so you'll need to replace the gasket as well.

3. Once you complete the sealing work, the leaking issue should be resolved. If the problem still exists, you may need to replace the entire faucet.

Now, what should you do if a hot and cold faucet is leaking?

1. If the faucet is leaking during colder temperatures, it may be due to a crack caused by freezing. Once the temperature rises, some poorly made faucets may also begin to leak. First, understand the structure of the hot and cold faucet: it has a handle, and if water seeps out around it, that indicates a leak.

2. First, check whether the nuts are loose. Prepare a screwdriver and an adjustable wrench to remove the handle and inspect the various components of the faucet. Use the wrench to remove the nuts inside, along with the screws of the gasket, and check for any damage to the screws or the valve core. If any parts are damaged, they will need to be replaced with new ones. Replace the gasket with one of the same model, ensuring that the old gasket is flat.

3. Next, secure the new gasket on the valve core, reassemble all the components, then turn on the water valve and check for any leaks.

In summary, if the base of the faucet in your home is leaking, it's usually due to a damaged valve core. By replacing the valve core or, if necessary, the entire faucet, the issue can typically be resolved, making it a minor problem.