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How to Fix a Leaky Faucet in a Few Simple Steps

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Got a Leaky Faucet?

A leaky faucet, over time, can feel like the scourge of your bathroom: even if the rest of your bathroom is in tip-top shape and even the ambiance is enviable, a leaky faucet changes how your guests might perceive your home. At least, in your mind it does. If you're the type of home do-it-yourself-er who enjoys not only a quick challenge, but making sure that your home is running as flawlessly as possible, it's time to learn how to fix that leaky faucet. In this article, we'll take a look at some simple steps for achieving exactly that.

Step #1: Survey the leaky faucet.

If you don't know anything about faucets, you'll probably want to learn about two basic faucet types: essentially, check to see how your faucet uses dials. Are there two handles for controlling faucet flow and temperature, or is there simply one mechanism that handles both? The latter is known as a "washerless" faucet, while the former is known as "compression" faucet. If you plan on fixing your faucet, you'll first have to know what you're fixing.

If you can, make sure you also look at the company name on the faucet and check their inventory online to see if you can find the specific type. This won't always be necessary, but it can potentially lead to some important hints and strategies you'll want to use in order to fix the leak.

Step #2: Plan your strategy.

Now that you know the faucet type and its make, you'll be ready to go in and fix things. But first you'll need to plan your strategy, and prepare the right tools to help you accomplish this task that much more quickly. You'll also want to consider any aesthetic considerations - can you cover your tools with tape if necessary n order to avoid scratching? Make sure that you'll have all of your tools in the bathroom handy so that you don't have to go searching through the house later. This can enhance frustration and make the process that much more difficult. So make sure you know both what to expect and have the tools nearby to help you handle the job.

Step #3: Remove the handle and make the necessary repairs.

Inside, your faucet will probably require some replacements. Taking a look at the problem, you can get a better understanding of the type of replacements you'll probably need to make. Common problems can include "o" rings, rubber gaskets, and twine.

Photo Credits: DBR9007

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