How to Fix a Dripping Compression Faucet in Milford, CT

Dripping CompressionThat endless dripping of your faucet is also money going down your drain. How much water does a dripping faucet waste? A faucet that drips 60 drips per minute wastes about 5 gallons of water a day … 2,082 gallons per year. That could mean up to $20 a month spent, so that you could hear “drip drip drip”.

What Kind of Faucet Do You Have?

There are 4 common types of faucets to choose from: Compression, Ceramic, Cartridge and Ball

A Compression Faucet is most basic type of faucet and has 2 handles, one of for hot and one for cold. The other 3 types only have 1 handle and do not use washers. We’ll discuss those in a future blog.

How Do You Fix a Dripping Compression Faucet?

1. Turn off the water to the sink.
2. You’ll want to make sure you don’t lose any small parts down the drain. Put a stopper in the sink drainage, or use something nearby such as a towel.
3. Remove each handle by prying off each cap, unscrewing and then taking off the handle
4. Once you can see the nut, use a wrench to remove it and pull out the stem. The O-ring and washer should be visible. Your dripping is probably being caused by that worn out washer.
5. Take the washer to your local home improvement store to match the size. While you are there, consider picking up a small amount of plumbers grease. You’ll need that when you install the new washer.
6. Coat the new washer with the newly bought plumbers grease, and then put the parts back together in reverse order.
7. Once you’ve succeeded in replacing the washer and parts, and your faucet is back in working order, you’re ready to turn your water back on.
8. Unstop the sink drainage and try the faucet. Is your dripping a thing of the past?

Remember, if you ever need advice from an experienced plumber, Ricks Plumbing is here to help. Check out our money saving coupons and then give Ricks Plumbing a call. If you need it quick, call Rick!

203-457-3201