That constant drip-drip-drip can get pretty annoying, can’t it? When we discover leaky faucets in our homes, our natural instinct is to get them repaired quickly. For many homeowners, that’s a DIY-job. But that doesn’t mean it’s easy. Attempting to fix a leaky faucet can seem straightforward. However, without the right knowledge and tools, minor issues can escalate into costly repairs.
Here are four frequent errors homeowners make when repairing faucets:
1. Forgetting to shut off the water supply.
Topping the list of mistakes made during do-it-yourself plumbing repairs is neglecting to turn off the water first. This oversight can lead to worsening the problem. We’re talking unexpected water sprays, potential flooding and water damage. Preventing these issues is pretty easy. Simply locate and close the shut-off valves beneath the sink.
Once you do that, turn on the faucet and leave it open. This will allow the remaining water in the line to empty into the sink. In some cases, it’s best to shut down the main water supply before commencing any plumbing work.
2. Over-tightening faucet components.
We understand the mindset of making connections as tight as possible. Naturally, you always want to ensure a tight seal. However, when you tighten too much, you can end up cracking fittings or stripping threads. This can lead to leaks or even broken parts. Be sure to use appropriate tools and apply moderate pressure to secure connections. Doing so will help you to avoid causing damage.
“One common problem in plumbing is the overtightening of the components, which can cause them to fail,” affirms OCI Group, “Although torque measuring instruments are available, they are not commonly employed to identify plumbing parts malfunctions.”
3. Not documenting the disassembly process.
It doesn’t matter how good you believe your memory is. It’s a very wise decision to document each component that you remove when disassembling your faucet for repairs. When you don’t note the exact arrangement of the parts, you can make the reassembly process very challenging. Take photos or label components during disassembly. It will guide you during reassembly and ensure everything returns to its proper place.
Be sure not to ignore the aerator too. As Health Canada explains, “a faucet aerator is a mesh screen attached to the tip of a faucet, or tap. It saves water, and catches debris and lead particles that may have gotten into the water. There are 2 types of aerators: One type screws on to the outside of a faucet…The other type screws into the inside of the faucet.” Regularly remove and clean the aerator to maintain optimal water pressure and prevent debris buildup.
4. Avoiding a call to the pros when things get difficult.
Could you use some professional help fixing that faucet of yours? At 2 Bro’s Plumbing, we understand the inconvenience a leaky or malfunctioning faucet can cause. Serving the Durham Region since 2015, our family-owned team is here to ensure you receive fast, friendly and expert faucet repairs and installations. Whether it’s a simple repair or a brand-new installation, we’ll make sure your faucet performs flawlessly.
Our experienced plumbers can handle any faucet type and carry the latest parts and equipment, ensuring quick and lasting results. Please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 905-556-0790 or email us at admin@2brosplumbing.ca.
