Drip, drip, drip. The noise that haunts you as you sleep at night, the echo that reverberates within your apartment walls. We all know that all too familiar sound of the sink leaking water when all we want to do is get a clean pair of hands or a refreshed bottle of water.
Not only does this sound cause an immense amount of frustration and a buildup of heat in your chest (Is that one just us? Maybe), the wasted water can add up quickly and result in a higher water bill at the end of the month, adding even more onto your current exacerbation.
Of the amount of frustration it causes, it occurs quite commonly in the everyday household. There are several reasons why a sink might drip, ranging from a simple fix to a more complex repair. It could be due to a worn-out washer, a loose or damaged valve seat, a faulty cartridge, or even high water pressure.
Whatever the cause, it’s important to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage or waste. So, whether you’re a homeowner or a renter, we will provide you with the knowledge and tools necessary to tackle that pesky, dripping sink once and for all. Keep reading to find out how to stop a sink from dripping!
Turn off the water supply
The first thing is first: turn off the water supply and inspect the area to ensure you are getting a good grasp of what you are dealing with! If you attempt to do this with the water supply still running, you can create water damage or even flood the area.
To turn off the water supply, first, locate the shut-off valve under the sink or in the basement and turn it off to stop the water flow. It should look like a small piece of pipe with a small wheel for you to turn. You can turn it off by turning the valve handle clockwise until it stops.
Close the drain
Next, close the drain. This small task can help make the process easier by ensuring nothing small, such as wedding rings or tools, falls into the drain while working with it.
Identify the problem
Here is where the important part comes in: identifying the problem. Examine the faucet to help you determine the cause of the drip. A worn-out washer, a damaged valve seat, or a corroded O-ring are among the most common reasons for a dripping sink.
If these things sound like foreign objects to you, do not fret. We will explain more below. Often, though, you can stare right at the faucet and still be unable to identify the problem. In this case, you can consult a plumber or refer to online resources for help.
Replace the washer
The washer is a small, flat rubber or plastic piece that sits at the end of the stem and is responsible for creating a watertight seal when the faucet is turned off. Once the faucet stem is removed using a wrench, inspect the washer at the end.
If the washer is worn, cracked, or damaged, it is likely the cause of the drip! Remove the old washer and replace it with a new one of the same size and shape. Finally, reassemble the faucet in the reverse order you took it apart! After all, you don’t want it falling apart on you.
Replace the valve seat.
The valve seat is not some fancy chair they sell for thousands of dollars. The valve seat of the sink sits at the base of the handle inside the tap housing, which acts as a seal for the faucet stem. Remove the handle, cap, and packing nut to inspect the valve seat to access the faucet’s stem.
From there, you can use a flashlight or a small mirror to examine the valve seat for signs of damage. If you see any signs of wear or damage, you’ll need to use a seat wrench to remove and replace the old valve seat with a new one! Easy peasy.
Replace the O-ring
O-rings are small rubber rings that create a watertight seal between the spout and the faucet’s body. To inspect it, remove the handle and any other parts necessary to access the spout. Once you have access to it, look for cracks, splits, or other signs of deterioration.
If you notice any damage, the O-ring must be replaced, just as the above suggested. You want to ensure the new O-ring is seated properly and is not twisted or pinched. If, after all these suggestions, your sink is still dripping, it may be time to throw in the towel and call a professional.