Faucet Repair for Different Types of Faucets
When your faucet is leaking, the constant drip, drip, drip can be more than a little annoying. It can also end up costing you a lot of money – if you don't believe it, put the stopper in the sink overnight and see how much water accumulates. Different types of faucets have distinct causes of leaks and different fixes. Some are easier to fix yourself than others, but the safest choice is hiring a professional to come out and inspect your faucet. They will be able to tell you the cause of the leaky faucet and the best course of faucet repair.
Cartridge Faucet
If your faucet is a cartridge faucet, repairing the leak will involve replacing the interior component, the cartridge. To do this, you start by removing the decorative cap on the facet so that you can remove the handle screw. After that, take the handle off to you access the cartridge. Pull the cartridge up and out to remove it, then replace it with a new cartridge and return the handle, screw, and cap to where they were. While a cartridge faucet is a relatively simple fix, there is always the possibility of trouble when dealing with plumbing. Having a professional plumber come out is always the safest bet.
Compression Faucet
Leaks from a compression faucet are usually the result of a faulty O-ring. You get to the O-ring by removing the handle, much like with a cartridge faucet. Start by removing the cap, then the handle screw, and finally the handle. Next, you will need a crescent wrench to remove the packing nut, then pop the stem out and replace the o-ring. While this is another relatively simple fix, it does need a tool that might not be in every homeowner's toolbox. Also, some homeowners may accidentally worsen the problem by trying to make the repair themselves. Calling a professional will save you from having to buy a new tool and from accidentally making the problem worse.
Ball-Type Faucet
Ball-type faucets are the most complex of these, and the hardest to fix. Your best bet is going to be to have a professional come out and make sure that it is fixed correctly. There are so many intricate moving parts to this type of faucet that most DIYers simply choose to replace the whole thing. Even if replacing the entire faucet is an option for you, you should still have a licensed professional plumber come out to do the replacement.
Experience the Metcalf Plumbing Difference
Metcalf Plumbing is a customer-focused plumbing contractor serving residential and commercial clients throughout the Catonsville, Ellicott City and surrounding areas. From water heater installation, sump pump installation and repair to water and sewer line replacement, Metcalf Plumbing is a trusted resource to call on when you need help with your plumbing services. We are not commission-based and we provide honest, upfront costs with a thorough inspection of your system and suggested next steps. Our trained and courteous technicians are standing by to provide quality comfort at competitive prices. You can call us at 410-242-311 and don't forget to follow us on Facebook and Twitter!