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Tools You Should Have in Your Toolbox for Fixing a Dripping Faucet
A leaky faucet is one of the most common problems any homeowner encounters. That steady sound of water dripping at night can be irritating, and the waste adds up quite quickly. While you may be tempted to call a plumber, many leaks you can tackle yourself. It is all about having the right tools on hand; a small repair can turn into a bigger headache if you do not have the right tool.
If you feel comfortable performing basic dripping faucet repair, here are the tools every homeowner should have in their toolbox.
One of the most essential tools for plumbing work on taps is an adjustable spanner. They are extremely useful to loosen or tighten nuts of various sizes without needing a complete set of spanners. When a tap handle is removed or at the valve seat, adjustable spanners can help you hold fittings. Use one that has a smooth grip so it can be held securely even when the work area is wet.
Most taps are held together with small screws. Some taps use flat head screws, while others have Phillips head screws. It is wise to keep both types in your toolbox to prevent stripping the screw and damaging the handle. A good set of screwdrivers makes the job neat and reduces the chance of scratching the tap surface. This is very helpful when you need to remove the cap from the top of the handle or reach inside the faucet in case of a leaky faucet repair.
Read More: Why Your Faucet Keeps Leaking?
Common mixer taps often contain small hex screws in place of standard screws. These screws are often concealed beneath a decorative cap. A set of Allen keys will assist you in safely and easily removing these screws. Allen screws are often fitted tightly or hidden deep inside a handle; therefore, it is important to have strong Allen keys to avoid stripping the screw. Never place an Allen key too deeply into the screw; a loose fit will strip the screw and make the repair more difficult.
Plumber’s tape, commonly referred to as PTFE tape, is beneficial when you want to ensure a tight seal around threaded parts. If you change a washer or cartridge, adding some tape to the threads can help reduce leaks. It also helps make the fittings easier to remove the next time you need to disassemble the tap. Plumber’s tape is relatively inexpensive and will last for a long time.
Many of the leaks you may be repairing in a dripping faucet are caused by old, worn washers or O-rings. These small rubber components help to create a watertight seal inside the faucet system. When the material begins to stiffen or crack, the water will begin to leak. It makes for a smoother dripping faucet repair if you have a small supply of assorted washers and O-rings. With a few different sizes, you will be able to match the size and replace the faulty washer or O-ring on site.
If you have a contemporary mixer tap, the cause of the drip could be a faulty cartridge. A cartridge kit consists of the replacement part along with the tools to remove the old cartridge. You’ll want to ensure you have the right cartridge replacement for your tap model. It is beneficial to keep a record of the brand and model number stored in your toolbox for future dripping faucet repair.
Read More: How to Stop a Dripping Mixer Tap
Working with small parts inside the tap is always made easier with a pair of needle nose pliers. Washers, clips, and screws are especially difficult to pull off with your fingers alone in a tap with a narrow body. Pliers also help to work in a tidy manner, preventing parts from simply dropping into the sink or falling behind the counter.
Mineral buildup around the tap can make fittings hard to unscrew. A soft cloth and vinegar are a good way to clean the area before you get started. Vinegar, which breaks down limescale, can also obscure screws and cause components to be sticky.
Good lighting is essential whenever you perform dripping faucet repair. A small flashlight allows you to see inside the tap body to check for worn-out items. It is also useful for reading small markings on screws or cartridges.
With these tools, you can perform basic dripping faucet repairs by yourself. A well-thought-out plan, a careful approach, and proper tools are sure to save time and stress and can help you stop the drip before it becomes something bigger.
