It is very crucial for you to learn how to fix a leaky faucet nowadays, especially with the high costs of getting a plumber, and with the nuisance that a leaking faucet brings. Now there’s no need for you to call a plumber and go through shock after shock upon receiving the high billing. Just go through these easy to follow and simple steps and you’ll be fixing that annoying leaky faucet in no time.

Learning how to fix a leaky faucet can be very easy. All you need are the right tools and materials. For this specific project, you will be needing a new washer (preferably the one that suits the faucet that you have at home), some rags, a wrench and a screwdriver (Philipps and flathead, depending on the screws).

There are some things you should do before you start pulling your faucet apart. First, you should shut off the main water supply by shutting off the control valve. This can be found somewhere along the pipes under the sink. Turn the level or handle of the valve counter clockwise to switch it off.

Aside from that, make sure you plug up the drain with some rags. This is to avoid small parts like screws and washers from going down the drain.

Once you have accomplished that, you can start with the process of fixing the leaky faucet. But be informed that these steps can be applied only to conventional faucets. Most unconventional faucets differ from one another depending on type and brand and you might need specific repair kits for it.

1. Just below the handle, where the faucet stem is attached to the water pipe, is a nut. Use a wrench to twist the nut counterclockwise to remove it. Turn the handle counterclockwise until you are able to remove it completely.

2. After you have removed the handle, you can then see a rubber-like washer that is probably very old, torn, dilapidated, and held down by a screw. This could be the reason why your faucet is leaking. Replace the old washer. Undo the old washer’s screws using your screwdriver and screw on a new washer. Remember that this new washer should be just of the same size with the old washer, to ensure compatibility and efficiency. Tighten the screws in order to secure the new washer in position.

3. Put everything back into place. Reinstall the faucet handle (clockwise, this time), and tighten the stem nut back to its original position.

4. After that, you can do the checking. Turn the water supply on and check whether the faucet still leaks. If it still leaks, you should probably tighten the screws more. Or, it could be that the faucet itself is defective, and not the washer. And if you think you really need it, seek professional help. Admit defeat and call a plumber.

So, there you have it. The easiest and simplest ways that will teach you how to fix a leaky faucet. By following these steps, you may never have to call another plumber again. You can say goodbye to ugly sink stains caused by long-standing drips, annoying dripping noises, and water wastage. All it takes is for you to learn these uncomplicated steps and you will never be helpless in dealing with a leaky faucet in your lifetime ever again.