A dripping faucet isn’t just annoying—it’s literally money going down the drain. That constant drip-drip-drip can waste up to 3,000 gallons of water per year, significantly increasing your utility bills. The good news? Many common faucet problems are surprisingly simple to fix yourself with basic tools and a little guidance. DDB Plumbing is here to walk you through the most common faucet repairs that homeowners in West Richland, Pasco, and throughout Washington can tackle on their own.
Understanding When to DIY vs. Call a Professional
Before you grab your toolbox, it’s important to know which repairs are DIY-friendly and which require professional expertise. Simple issues like replacing worn washers, fixing a loose handle, or cleaning aerators are perfect for homeowners to handle. However, if you’re dealing with corroded pipes, complex valve replacements, or persistent leaks after attempted repairs, it’s time to call the experts at DDB Plumbing at 509-240-9278.
Fixing a Dripping Faucet: The Most Common Issue
A dripping faucet is typically caused by a worn-out washer or O-ring. For compression faucets (the type with separate hot and cold handles), here’s how to fix it:
What You’ll Need:
- Adjustable wrench
- Screwdriver
- Replacement washers or O-rings
- Plumber’s grease
Step-by-Step Process:
- Turn off the water supply under the sink
- Close the drain to prevent losing small parts
- Remove the decorative cap and unscrew the handle
- Use your wrench to remove the packing nut
- Pull out the stem and locate the worn washer at the bottom
- Replace the washer and reassemble everything in reverse order
For ceramic disk or cartridge faucets common in Kennewick and Richland homes, the process involves replacing the entire cartridge rather than individual washers. These repairs are slightly more complex but still manageable for most homeowners.
Repairing a Leaky Faucet Base
Water pooling around your faucet base usually indicates worn O-rings in the spout assembly. This repair is straightforward and can save you from water damage to your countertops and cabinets.
Turn off the water supply and remove the faucet spout by loosening the collar or screws holding it in place. You’ll find one or more O-rings along the body—these rubber rings deteriorate over time from mineral deposits and regular wear. Replace them with exact-size matches from your local hardware store, apply plumber’s grease, and reassemble. This 15-minute fix can prevent hundreds of dollars in water damage repairs.
Fixing Low Water Pressure Problems
If your faucet has weak water flow, the aerator—the screen at the tip of your faucet—is likely clogged with mineral deposits. Simply unscrew the aerator (use a cloth to protect the finish), disassemble it, and soak the parts in white vinegar for an hour. Scrub away any remaining buildup with an old toothbrush, rinse, and reinstall. This simple maintenance task restores water pressure instantly and should be done every few months in areas with hard water.
Tightening Loose Faucet Handles
Loose handles are more than just inconvenient—they can cause internal wear that leads to bigger problems. Most handles are secured with a setscrew hidden under a decorative cap. Pop off the cap, tighten the screw with an Allen wrench or screwdriver, and you’re done. If the handle continues to loosen, the internal mechanism may be stripped, which means it’s time to contact DDB Plumbing for a professional assessment.
When DIY Isn’t Enough
While these repairs can save you money, some situations require professional expertise. If you’ve attempted a repair without success, notice water damage, or are dealing with older plumbing systems, don’t risk making the problem worse. DDB Plumbing serves homeowners throughout Washington with experienced technicians who can diagnose and resolve any faucet issue quickly and efficiently.
Keep Your Plumbing in Top Shape
Regular maintenance and timely repairs keep your plumbing system running smoothly and prevent costly emergency situations. However, when you need professional help—whether it’s a stubborn faucet problem or a middle-of-the-night plumbing emergency—DDB Plumbing is ready to respond.
Contact DDB Plumbing today at 509-240-9278 to schedule your faucet repair or plumbing inspection. Our certified plumbers respond immediately to any emergency plumbing need across West Richland, Pasco, Kennewick, Richland, and surrounding Washington communities. From simple faucet fixes to complex plumbing solutions, trust the team that puts your home first. Emergency services available 24/7!
