Why You Must Always Call a Licensed Plumber to Fix a Leaky Faucet

When it comes to a faucet leak, you might be tempted to try to fix it yourself. However, the job might be more challenging than it seems and have unforeseen complications. This article will explain why it's best to call a licensed plumber to fix a leaky faucet.

Types of faucets

Surprisingly, there are many things to know about faucets when trying to fix a leak. There are several types of faucets: compression, ball, cartridge, and ceramic disc faucets. All of them function differently, so it's best to know what type you're dealing with before attempting the fix.

The first step in fixing a leaky faucet should be to turn off the water valve so that water doesn't start gushing out once the faucet is disassembled. Also, plug the drain to prevent smaller parts from falling through it.

The job will require a couple of screwdrivers (both Phillips and flat-head), a wrench, pliers, some WD-40 and plumbers' grease, a camera or a phone, and essential replacement parts for the specific type of faucet in question.

If, during work, some unfamiliar small parts appear, make sure to take a photo of them for later reference when reassembling the faucet.

Compression faucets are the easiest to fix if the leak is coming from the handles. The handles can be removed to reveal the O-ring, which is most likely the culprit. If the handles won't come off, use the WD-40 to soften them. Replacing the O-ring should take care of the leak.

Repairing leaky handles is relatively straightforward for compression and cartridge faucets, but a ball or ceramic disc faucet will not be as easy. Both of those faucet types need specialized tools to disassemble them and spare parts for replacements.

Spout leaks also present a more complicated problem that requires detailed knowledge of the faucet mechanisms and professional tools.

If the leak isn't coming from the handles and the faucet isn't of the most straightforward design, the process might be troublesome.

Spare yourself the trouble

The best way to bypass any complications and headaches concerning a leaky faucet is to hire a professional, licensed plumber.

It's crucial that the plumber has a license since it guarantees that they have at least four years of experience and has passed professional exams. A licensed plumber will also have insurance that will cover any property that might be damaged during the job, including the faucet parts.

A knowledgeable and experienced plumber will have the right tools and know what parts to replace and what actions to take to efficiently deal with the problem. They'll also probably offer a guarantee for the job, and might even give it in writing.

In other words, hiring a licensed plumber will pay off considerably since, in most cases, a handyman or an amateur won't have all the resources and expertise needed to address the problem.

Much Better Plumbing is the premier residential and commercial plumbing service for homeowners and businesses in the Las Vegas area. We are licensed, bonded, and insured. Our residential plumbing services include water leak detection and repair, toilet repairs, faucet repair and replacement, home repiping, slab leak detection and repair, and water heater repair and replacement.