Dealing with a leaky faucet can be frustrating, but fixing it yourself can save you time and money. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to diagnose and repair a leaky cartridge or compression faucet.
What Causes a Leaky Faucet?
A faucet can develop leaks for a few common reasons:
- Worn washers or O-rings allow water to drip out around the faucet stem. This is common in older compression faucets.
- Defective or worn out cartridges allow water to leak through their seals. Cartridge faucets are prone to this.
- Loose or damaged valve seats allow water to leak through when the faucet is off.
- Mineral deposits and corrosion damage the faucet over time.
- Loose connections between supply lines and faucet inlets/outlets.
How to Tell If You Have a Cartridge or Compression Faucet
The first step is identifying what type of faucet you have – cartridge or compression. This determines what needs repair or replacement.
Cartridge faucets have a single handle that moves up and down. Taking the handle off reveals a cylindrical cartridge inside that controls water flow and mixing. Popular cartridge types include ceramic disk and ball.
Compression faucets have separate hot and cold handles that turn sideways. Underneath each handle is a threaded faucet stem with washers. Turning the handle compresses the washer to control water flow.
If still unsure, check under the sink. Cartridges are single units, while compression faucets have two separate valve assemblies.
Fixing a Leaky Compression Faucet
Compression faucets are straightforward to repair by replacing the worn rubber washers:
Supplies Needed
- Faucet washers – bring the old ones to get matching replacements.
- Adjustable wrench or faucet handle puller
- Basin wrench – for reaching up inside the faucet base
- Plumber’s putty or silicone sealant
Repair Steps
- Turn off hot and cold water supply lines under the sink.
- Remove the faucet handle with an adjustable wrench or handle puller.
- Unscrew the retaining nut holding the stem assembly in place with a basin wrench.
- Pull out the stem and check the condition of the rubber washer. Replace if worn.
- Apply plumber’s putty or silicone sealant to new washer and re-insert stem.
- Tighten retaining nut and re-attach handle.
- Turn water back on and test for leaks. Tighten connections if needed.
Be sure to replace washers on BOTH hot and cold sides of the faucet even if one leaks more. Doing both maintains balance.
Fixing a Leaky Cartridge Faucet
Cartridge repairs involve removing the cartridge and replacing worn seals and O-rings:
Supplies Needed
- Replacement cartridge or new seals/O-rings
- Adjustable wrench
- Needle-nose pliers
- Utility knife
- Plumber’s putty or silicone sealant
Repair Steps
- Turn off water supply and remove faucet handle with wrench.
- Use needle-nose pliers to remove any retainer clips holding cartridge in.
- Pull cartridge straight up and out of faucet body. Inspect for cracks or damage.
- Remove seals/O-rings around cartridge cylinder and replace if worn. Use utility knife to scrape mineral deposits.
- Lightly lubricate new seals and insert cartridge back into faucet body.
- Secure with retainer clip and re-attach handle.
- Turn on water supply and check for leaks. Tighten if drips persist.
Some cartridges can be disassembled further to replace internal seals and springs. Refer to the manufacturer’s guide if needed.
Preventing Future Leaky Faucet Problems
To help avoid leaky faucets down the road:
- Install quarter turn ball valves for easier long term maintenance.
- Choose drip-free ceramic disc or diamond seal cartridges for leaks resistance.
- Replace compression washers every 2-3 years as preventive maintenance.
- Clean faucet aerators and shower heads regularly to prevent mineral buildup.
- Insulate exposed pipes to prevent freezing damage.
- Promptly repair any new drips – small leaks lead to bigger problems over time.
With the right tools and replacement parts, fixing a leaky faucet is an easy DIY project. Identifying whether you have a cartridge or compression model will determine the correct repair procedure. Follow the steps outlined above to stop annoying drips and restore full water control.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I need to replace the entire cartridge?
If the cartridge body is cracked or very corroded, it’s best to replace the entire cartridge. Trying to repair a severely damaged one will likely result in continued leaking.
Why does my compression faucet drip after replacing the washers?
This usually indicates the interior valve seat is damaged and needs replacement. Hard water deposits can pit the metal over time. Try switching the hot and cold stem positions first to confirm.
What are quick fixes for a leaky cartridge faucet?
If waiting for replacement parts, wrapping plumber’s tape around the cartridge cylinder or using silicone grease on the seals can temporarily stop small leaks. But this is just a short term solution.
Should I replace supply hoses when fixing a leaky faucet?
It’s a good idea to install new flexible supply lines at the same time since the rubbing and twisting involved during faucet repairs can damage the hoses. Use steel braided supply hoses for maximum durability.
How do I remove a stuck faucet handle?
Penetrating oil around the handle base can help loosen a corroded stuck handle. Avoid forcing or twisting the handle which can damage the faucet. Use a handle puller tool if needed to gently pry the handle loose.
Is it okay to use plumber’s putty on plastic faucet parts?
No, plumber’s putty can react with and damage plastic components. Use silicone sealant instead when re-installing a cartridge or compression stem back into plastic faucet housings.
Conclusion
Identifying whether your leaky faucet has a cartridge or compression design is the first step in making the proper DIY repairs. Follow the recommended steps to replace worn seals, O-rings, and washers to stop annoying drips. Be patient during disassembly and re-installation – don’t force pieces that feel stuck. With the right replacement parts and proper tools, you can solve most common leaky faucet issues yourself and save the cost of a plumber.
