fix your dripping faucet
Dripping single-handle bathroom faucets are not only annoying, but they can waste gallons of water every year if left unchecked. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to save money by fixing the drip yourself. If none of these steps work, the faucet itself probably needs to be replaced. Before you begin working on your single-handle faucet, cover the drain below with a cloth to keep small parts from falling in if you drop them.
Instructions
1. Turn off the water valve controlling the bathroom faucet you will be working with. For sinks, this is usually in the vanity cabinet under the sink. Bathtub water valves are generally located behind the faucet. In newer homes, there is an access panel in the closet behind the bathtub. For an older home, you may have to cut through the drywall around the bathtub in order to access the water supply valve. It may be easier to shut off the main water supply to the home in this case.
2. Turn on the faucet slowly to drain the system. Pry off the cap on top of the faucet handle with a flathead screwdriver. Loosen the nut inside the faucet so you can access the internal parts. Use needle nose pliers to gently remove the rod inside the faucet. Inspect it for mineral deposits caused by hard water. Wipe the rod down with white household vinegar to clean off these deposits and improve the flow of water through the faucet. Replace the rod if it appears cracked or extremely worn.
3. Inspect the washer seat, washer, o-rings and seal for worn spots or cracks. Take the old parts to the hardware store when you are purchasing replacements to make sure you get the proper sizes.
4. Install any replacement parts that were purchased in Step Three. Slide the rod back into place and tighten the locking nut. Press the cap onto the top of the faucet handle until it locks back into place. Turn the water back on, reversing the process you used in Step One. Remove the cloth covering the drain and test the faucet for leaks.
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