Do you hear that constant drip, drip, drip from your kitchen or bathroom? A leaky faucet is more than an annoyance—it can waste gallons of water, raise your water bill, and cause potential damage. Don’t worry! Fixing a leaky faucet can be a simple DIY project. But remember, if that leak becomes a bigger project than you expected, North Peachtree Plumbing is only a phone call away. Don’t let a small drip turn into a big problem—reach out to the experts for a quick and reliable solution.

Why Fixing a Leaky Faucet is Important
Ignoring a leaky faucet can cause multiple issues:
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- The constant dripping wastes water, creating both environmental and financial concerns. According to the EPA, a single leaky faucet can waste over 3,000 gallons of water annually!
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- Continuous moisture can cause water damage and mold growth in your home.
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- A persistent leak can deteriorate faucet and sink components, leading to costly repairs.
Common Causes of a Leaky Faucet
Understanding the root cause of your leaky faucet is crucial for an efficient fix. The most common culprits include worn washers, damaged O-rings, corroded valve seats, and loose or damaged parts. Pinpointing the specific issue will streamline your repair process.
However, sometimes a leaky faucet can signal a bigger problem. When that happens, don’t stress—turn to North Peachtree Plumbing. For all your urgent and routine plumbing needs, we’re your reliable partner and just a call away. Let the experts handle it! Plumbing. We’re your reliable partner for all urgent and routine plumbing needs.
Identifying the Type of Faucet
Before fixing your leaky faucet, it’s essential to know what type you have. Faucets generally fall into four categories:
Compression Faucets: These are typically found in older homes. They use separate hot and cold handles that you tighten to stop the flow of water. If your faucet has a washer that you need to replace often, it’s likely a compression faucet.
Ball Faucets: Common in kitchen sinks, these faucets have a single handle that moves over a rounded ball-shaped cap right above the base of the faucet spout. The ball faucets are known for their reliability and are usually easy to repair.
Cartridge Faucets: These can have either a single handle or two handles. The movement is smooth, without the up-and-down motion seen in compression faucets. Identifying a cartridge faucet involves feeling how the handle moves: it’s smooth and consistent.
Ceramic Disk Faucets: These are the most modern and durable type. They have a single lever over a wide cylindrical body and operate using two ceramic disks to control water flow. They rarely need repairs but can be more complicated to fix.

Each type has a unique design and method for controlling water flow. Identifying your faucet type will help you understand the parts and tools needed for the repair. Taking the time to correctly identify your faucet can save you effort and ensure a successful fix.
If you’re unsure about your faucet type or the repair seems daunting, North Peachtree Plumbing has you covered. Give us a call for all your plumbing needs—urgent or routine—and let our experts take care of it for you!
Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing a Leaky Faucet
Preparation
Thoroughly preparing before fixing the leaky faucet can ensure a smoother and more efficient repair process. Proper preparation minimizes the risk of losing parts, helps you stay organized, and reduces the time needed to complete the repair.
Turn off the water supply by locating the shut-off valves:
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- Typically, these valves are found under the sink. There are usually two valves: one for hot water and one for cold water.
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- Turn each valve clockwise until they are fully closed. This will stop water flow to the faucet, ensuring no water leaks while you work.
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- If there are no individual shut-off valves, you may need to turn off the main water supply to your home. The main shut-off valve is usually near your water meter or where the main water line enters your home.
Close the drain with a sink plug or a rag:
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- Place a sink plug or a small rag over the drain. This simple step helps catch any small parts, such as screws or washers, that might fall during disassembly.
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- If you don’t have a sink plug, a piece of duct tape can temporarily cover the drain.
Gather all necessary tools and materials:
Tools:
- Adjustable wrench: Essential for loosening and tightening various nuts and bolts.
- Screwdrivers: Both flathead and Phillips head screwdrivers are commonly needed to remove screws.
- Pliers: Useful for gripping and turning components.
- Allen wrench set: Some faucets, particularly cartridge types, require Allen wrenches to remove handles or other parts.
- Plumber’s tape (Teflon tape): Helps create a watertight seal on threaded connections.
- Bucket or bowl: To catch residual water that might spill when disassembling the faucet.
- Flashlight: Useful for better visibility in dark or hard-to-reach areas.

Materials:
Replacement parts: Depending on the type of faucet, you may need new washers, O-rings, or cartridges. Having these on hand is a good idea before you start the repair.
Cleaning supplies: A soft cloth, sponge, or old toothbrush for cleaning parts. Mild soap or vinegar can help remove mineral deposits and grime.
Lubricant: Silicone-based grease can lubricate O-rings and other moving parts, ensuring smooth operation and extending lifespan.
Disassemble the Faucet
Research the disassembly method for your specific type of faucet by checking the manufacturer’s manual or online guides. This ensures you follow the correct steps and makes the repair process easier.
Track the parts and their placement to make reassembly easier. Label each component and take pictures during disassembly for reference. This extra effort will save time and reduce frustration when you must assemble everything.

Inspect and Replace Parts
Check washers and O-rings:
Look for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or flattening.
Replace damaged parts:
If you find damaged washers, O-rings, or cartridges, replace them with new ones. Make sure to use parts compatible with your specific faucet type.
Inspect other components:
Check other parts for corrosion or damage and replace them if necessary.
Clean the Components
Remove Buildup: Use vinegar and a brush to remove mineral deposits and debris from faucet parts.
Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse all components to remove any remaining cleaning solution.
Dry Completely: Wipe all parts with a cloth to ensure they are completely dry before reassembly.
Reassemble the Faucet
To reassemble the faucet, follow the reverse disassembly steps, ensuring all parts are correctly aligned and tightened. Apply plumber’s tape to threaded connections to ensure a secure fit and prevent leaks.
Finally, double-check that all connections are tight and secure before turning the water back on.
Test the Faucet
Open the shut-off valves under the sink to turn the water supply back on. Test the faucet to check for leaks around the base or handle. Adjust the connections as needed to ensure a proper seal if you find any leaks.
When to Call a Professional
While many leaky faucet repairs are manageable, certain situations warrant professional help. If the faucet components are severely corroded or damaged, or if you’re unable to identify the cause of the leak, it’s wise to consult a plumber. Complex issues or extensive damage require a professional’s expertise to ensure the job is done correctly and safely.
North Peachtree Plumbing offers expert services for all your emergency plumbing needs, ensuring your faucets remain leak-free and fully functional.
Tips for Preventing Future Leaks
Regular maintenance:
Perform routine inspections and maintenance to catch potential issues before they become significant problems.
High-quality parts and fixtures:
Invest in durable, high-quality parts and fixtures to reduce the likelihood of leaks and extend the life of your faucet.
Routine inspections:
Schedule regular inspections to ensure your plumbing system is in good condition and address any issues promptly.
Your Path to a Leak-Free Faucet
Fixing a leaky faucet saves water and money and prevents potential damage to your home. By following this step-by-step guide, you can confidently tackle this common household issue and keep your faucets in top condition. Addressing leaks promptly is essential for maintaining a functional and efficient plumbing system.
When plumbing emergencies strike, trust North Peachtree Plumbing for swift, expert solutions. Reach out now to get the help you need, fast!