How To Fix A Dripping Kitchen Faucet With Two Handles – Full Guide

A dripping kitchen faucet with two handles can be a nuisance, not to mention wasteful. The constant dripping can be annoying and the water wastage can lead to an increase in your water bill. Fortunately, fixing a dripping kitchen faucet is a task that you can tackle yourself with the right tools and some basic know-how. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to fix a dripping kitchen faucet with two handles.

Tools you need

Before you begin, you’ll need to gather some tools and materials. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Adjustable wrench
• Screwdriver
• Replacement washers
• Replacement O-rings
• Plumber’s grease
• Penetrating oil
• Towel

Steps of fix a dripping kitchen faucet with two handles

Step 1: Turn off the water supply

The first step in fixing a dripping kitchen faucet is to turn off the water supply to the faucet. Look for the shut-off valves under the sink and turn them clockwise until they are completely closed. If you can’t find the shut-off valves, you’ll need to turn off the main water supply to your home.

Step 2: Remove the handles

Once the water supply is turned off, you can start disassembling the faucet. Begin by removing the handles. Look for a screw on the base of the handle or on the back of the handle. Use a screwdriver to remove the screw and then gently lift the handle off the faucet. Repeat this process for the other handle.

Step 3: Remove the nuts and stems

With the handles removed, you should see the nuts and stems. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the nuts and then remove them by hand. Once the nuts are removed, the stems should be easy to pull out.

Step 4: Replace the washers and O-rings

The cause of a dripping faucet is often a worn-out washer or O-ring. Inspect the washers and O-rings for any signs of wear or damage. If they look worn or damaged, replace them with new ones.

Apply some plumber’s grease to the new washers and O-rings before installing them. This will help them to slide into place more easily and create a watertight seal.

Step 5: Reassemble the faucet

Once the new washers and O-rings are installed, you can start reassembling the faucet. Begin by inserting the stems back into the faucet and securing them with the nuts. Use the adjustable wrench to tighten the nuts.

Next, place the handles back onto the stems and secure them with the screws. Turn the handles clockwise until they are tight.

Step 6: Turn on the water supply

With the faucet reassembled, you can turn the water supply back on. Slowly turn the shut-off valves counterclockwise until the water starts to flow. Check the faucet for any leaks. If you don’t see any leaks, turn the faucet on and off a few times to make sure it’s working properly.

Step 7: Clean up

Once you’re satisfied that the faucet is working properly and there are no leaks, clean up your work area. Use a towel to wipe up any water or debris that may have accumulated during the repair process.

Additional tips:

• If the nuts are difficult to remove, use some penetrating oil to loosen them.
• If the stems are difficult to remove, gently wiggle them back and forth until they come loose.
• If you’re not sure what type of replacement washers and O-rings to use, take the old ones to a hardware store and ask for assistance.
• If the faucet is still leaking after you’ve replaced the washers and O-rings, it may be time to replace the entire faucet.

In conclusion, fixing a dripping kitchen faucet with two handles is a relatively easy task that you can do yourself with the right tools and some basic knowledge. By following these steps, you can save money on a plumber and prevent further water wastage.

It’s important to note that if you’re uncomfortable with the repair process or if you’re not confident in your ability to complete the repair, it’s best to call a professional plumber. Attempting to fix a faucet without the necessary knowledge or experience can lead to further damage or even injury.

To prevent future drips, it’s a good idea to perform regular maintenance on your faucets. This includes cleaning the aerator and checking for leaks. You can clean the aerator by unscrewing it from the faucet and soaking it in vinegar overnight. This will remove any mineral deposits and improve water flow. Checking for leaks should be done regularly by turning off all the faucets in your home and checking your water meter. If the meter continues to move, it could be a sign of a leak.

Conclusion

In conclusion, fixing a dripping kitchen faucet with two handles is a simple task that can be done by anyone with the right tools and basic knowledge. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can save money and prevent water wastage. Remember to perform regular maintenance on your faucets to prevent future drips and leaks.