How To Fix A Leaky Bathroom Sink Faucet

A leaky bathroom sink faucet is a common problem that can waste water and increase your utility bills. Fortunately, it is usually a relatively easy fix that you can do yourself with a few basic tools. Here are the steps on how to fix a leaky bathroom sink faucet:

1. Gather your tools and materials

You will need the following tools and materials to fix a leaky bathroom sink faucet:

Adjustable wrench
Phillips head screwdriver
Flathead screwdriver
Replacement faucet washer
Plumber's putty

2. Turn off the water supply

Before you start working on the faucet, you need to turn off the water supply. There are usually two shut-off valves under the sink, one for hot water and one for cold water. Turn both valves clockwise to turn off the water.

3. Remove the faucet handle

Once the water is turned off, you can remove the faucet handle. Most faucet handles are held in place by a screw on the top of the handle. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screw, then pull the handle straight up to remove it.

4. Remove the packing nut

Under the faucet handle, you will see a packing nut. This is a large nut that holds the faucet stem in place. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the packing nut, then remove it by hand.

5. Remove the faucet stem

Once the packing nut is removed, you can remove the faucet stem. The faucet stem is the part of the faucet that turns the water on and off. Use a flathead screwdriver to gently pry the faucet stem out of the faucet body.

6. Inspect the faucet washer

Once the faucet stem is removed, you can inspect the faucet washer. The faucet washer is a small rubber washer that creates a seal between the faucet stem and the faucet body. If the faucet washer is worn or damaged, it can cause a leak.

7. Replace the faucet washer

If the faucet washer is worn or damaged, you will need to replace it. To do this, simply remove the old washer and replace it with a new one. Make sure that the new washer is the same size and shape as the old one.

8. Reassemble the faucet

Once you have replaced the faucet washer, you can reassemble the faucet. To do this, simply reverse the steps that you took to disassemble it. Start by inserting the faucet stem into the faucet body, then tighten the packing nut. Next, install the faucet handle and tighten the screw. Finally, turn on the water supply and check for leaks.

9. If the leak persists

If the leak persists after you have followed these steps, there may be a more serious problem with your faucet. In this case, you may need to call a plumber to fix the issue.