HOW TO REPAIR A LEAKY FAUCET.

I thought, for a change, I would revert back to my original intent for the blog and answer a simple but yet frequent question on most of the DIY discussion rooms. How do I repair a leaky faucet?
This is for double handled faucets not single lever types. Leaky faucets occur for many reasons, the most common being the washer inside the faucet has worn out and needs to be replaced. You don’t need to call a plumber (unless you are Crash and Burn Hennecy, who is capable of getting an electrical shock while doing plumbing) to replace a washer in a faucet, since you can do the job yourself in about 10 minutes with a few simple tools.
Before you begin have a selection of washers on hand (available in mixed repair kits at your local hardware store)to choose from or the specific washer for the brand faucet you have. Many times these washers can be obtained from the manufacturer free of charge with a simple phone call to their customer service line.
To begin the process turn off the water supply to the faucet either with the shut off valve below the sink or if none is located there use the main water supply control valve usually located in line with the main water line coming into your house. If you don’t know where your main shut off is now is a great time to find it even if you have a shut off on the faucet. Once the water is turned off turn the faucet to release any water pressure then turn the faucet off. Take a crescent wrench and loosen the lock nut at the base of the faucet. This is done by turning the nut counter-clockwise to loosen it. Some water may leak out when you do this but it will only be a small amount. The washer you want to replace is in the bottom of the faucet. Lift the faucet up from the sink and turn it over and look up inside the faucet itself. You will see the washer for the faucet in its base. Using a flat head screwdriver, pry up gently in the middle of the washer to remove it. Replace the washer in the faucet with your replacement part, or match the size of the old washer to a new one and install it in the same position as the old. Turn the faucet back over and replace it in the sink. Retighten the lock nut by turning it clockwise. Turn your water supply on and test the faucet for leaks.
Now that you have your confidence up and you think plumbing is maybe your long lost avocation maybe it’s time to add that new bathroom your spouse has been wanting. Forget it! Call a good licensed plumber.