Emergency Fixes for a Faucet That Won't Turn Off

If the faucet in your home cannot be turned off, it can lead to extra expenses; therefore, we need to address the issue. So, why might a faucet not turn off?

1. Understanding the Issue of a Faucet That Won't Turn Off

When facing the problem of a faucet that won’t turn off, it’s primarily due to a damaged valve or washer inside the faucet. This can cause the faucet to drip or, in some cases, to flow continuously.

Another possibility is that there might be a gap at the base of the faucet, leading to leaks. Generally, this occurs because there is a triangular sealing gasket inside the cap that can wear out over time, resulting in ongoing leakage issues.

2. How to Solve the Faucet Problem

If you encounter a faucet that won’t turn off, the first step is to close the water supply valve to prevent flooding. Next, gather a screwdriver, wrench, and pliers to remove the screws at the top and the small handle, which is typically concealed beneath a metal button.

After removing the handle, inspect the faucet components. Use a wrench to detach the nut inside and then remove the screw that secures the washer. Replace the old washer with a new one of the same shape, and then reassemble all the parts of the faucet.

Tighten the valve core in a clockwise direction and reattach the nut, making sure to also put the button and disc back in place. Next, reopen the water supply valve and check if there is still any leakage.

If after reinstallation there is still a leak, it may indicate that the valve is damaged. In this case, you may need to replace the entire faucet. Remove the old valve seat and turn it counterclockwise. Then, install the new valve seat correctly.

3. How to Properly Use a Faucet

Many people, when using a faucet, tend to turn it off very tightly after each use, which is actually incorrect. The right way to use a faucet is to turn it off gently, avoiding forceful twisting of the faucet handle or over-tightening it.

In summary, if you encounter issues with dripping or leaking faucets, it is essential to check if the washer has failed or if the valve core is problematic. As long as you identify the cause, you can easily replace the faulty components.