NO LEAKS
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, water from household leaks can add up to 10,000 gallons of water every year—enough to fill a backyard swimming pool. If your faucet has sprung a leak. H2ouse.org encourages you to keep these tips in mind.
Most faucet leaks are caused by worn washers within the faucet. Replacing the washer is fairly simple: Cut off the water supply to the problem faucet, disassemble it and replace the washer with a new one. If you’re unsure of what type of washer to buy, bring it into the hardware store so you can compare it to similar models or ask a sales associate for assistance. Still leaking? The problem may be in the underground pipes, in which case it’s best to call a plumber.
If you’re replacing tubing under a sink, be sure to replace the shutoff valve as well. Most likely, these valves haven’t been touched in years, so it’s best to get a new one when it’s being used.
If you wind up going the do-it-yourself route, take photos or sketch and record the order of disassembly. Many homeowners skip this vital step, which leads to even more problems down the road with faulty equipment.
The most important rule? If you feel you can’t handle it, call in an expert. Going in blind to fix leaks can wind up costing you if something goes awry.