Is your bathroom faucet leaking at the base?
Have you tried all the methods and still struggling to get rid of the leakage at the base?
Trust me, you’re not alone, quite a few of my clients have complained to us about similar issues in the past.
In this post, I’ll walk you through the steps and methods that will help you in getting rid of problems associated with your bathroom faucet leaking at the base.
So, without any further ado, let’s begin…
A continuous leakage at the base of your bathroom faucet or sink may cause stress and anxiety or at least, it will make you uncomfortable till the time the problem is fixed.
Correct me, if I’m wrong.
We at izzysmarthomeguide.com suggest our clients deal with such problems quickly and effectively as failing to do so may lead to costly repairs, skyrocketing water bills, and whatnot.
During the process of diagnosing a leak, it is very important for you to figure out the source of water.
For example, you found that your bathroom faucet is leaking at the base and so you started searching for legitimate solutions online or even offline whatever works for you.
What Happens If You Don’t Fix a Leaky Faucet?
From my past experience and the knowledge that I’ve accumulated over two decades, all I can say is that never take a leaky faucet as a minor inconvenience as in the long run, it can do more bad than good to you.
Trust me, your plumbing problem is much larger and much more complex than you might ever think as the majority of it is either hidden behind the walls or underneath the floors.
You can consider a plumbing system similar to an iceberg whose only 20 percent portion is visible and the rest is under the water.
And, for these reasons, even a leaking faucet needs your immediate attention as well as prompt response.
My honest advice would be to consult a certified plumber as soon as you see a leaky faucet as delaying can further aggravate the problem in most of the cases.
Trust me, even a steady drip can cause serious damage to not only your home and property but also your wallet so you need to act promptly and smartly.
Let’s have a quick look at what can happen if you’ll avoid your faucet’s leaking for a longer duration of time.
The Leak Could Get Worse
Yes, you heard it, right?
Avoiding your leaking faucet for a longer duration of time can further aggravate the problem.
In fact, the added pressure on your faucet can cause the situation to worsen, and as a result, the consequences can be even larger and more serious.
It goes without saying that a leak is never gonna resolve on its own so to save your time and effort you should higher a plumber as soon as possible.
You’ll Be Left With Water Damage
The issue of water damage becomes serious especially if the pipes underneath your sink begin to start leaking.
As a consequence, you’ll see sudden growth of mold as the dark, damp environment will provide them with ideal growth conditions.
Wait, there are more issues associated with a leaking faucet such as the surrounding area will rot away which may lead to structural damage that you’ll never want to happen.
Correct me, if I’m wrong.
Wastage of Water
Needless to say, any sort of leakage in a plumbing system if left untreated will cause enormous loss of water.
Even ignoring a steady, annoying drip will waste hundreds of gallons of water every year so never take a dripping faucet as a matter of inconvenience only.
On top of it, ignoring a leaking faucet can cause your water bills to skyrocket.
How to Fix a Bathroom Faucet Leaking at the Base?
Let’s have a quick look at the below-mentioned steps which will help you in fixing your bathroom faucet leaking at the base.
Does it make sense?
[Quick Fix Steps]- First and foremost, the water supply connected to the faucet needs to be shut off.
- Secondly, you need to pull out the faucet handle cap.
- Moving further, you need to loosen the faucet valve with a pair of pliers.
- Now it’s time to find the internal O-rings.
- Lastly, the damaged O-rings need to be removed and replaced so that your faucet doesn’t leak at the base anymore.
Reasons for Your Bathroom Sink to Leak at the Base
I’m sure most readers of izzysmarthomeguide.com would be well aware of the term “base” that I’ve been using time and again in this post.
Nonetheless, if you’re someone who isn’t crystal clear with what the base leak actually means then all you need to do is to keep reading as I’ll try to the best of my capabilities to clear most of your doubts if not all related to the topic.
If you find the information available on izzysmarthomeguide.com legitimate and helpful then please do share this post with like-minded people and the ones who are in search of similar pieces of information.
Coming back to the topic, when we talk about a base leak, we actually mean the junction wherein the faucet meets the sink.
If you’re a newbie then chances are very high that you’ll face some difficulties in spotting the base leaks as they only leak when your faucet is on.
Moreover, they occur in a spot that we commonly splash water on while using our sink, interesting, isn’t it?
In most cases, we found only two culprits that will do more bad than good to you.
The first and most important culprit is your faucet’s O-rings which may dry up or even crack after over or extended use.
Another culprit is a worn-out inner cartridge.
All I want to convey to my readers is that extended use can be the main reason behind your bathroom faucet leaking at the base.
Steps to Fix the Bathroom Faucet Leaking at the Base
Let’s have an in-depth discussion on the steps that will help you in fixing your bathroom faucet leaking at the base.
Feel free to contact us in case of any doubts or queries.
To begin with, faulty O-rings are considered the main culprit behind the leakage and so you need to handle them intelligently.
So, the first thing that you need to do is to try fixing your faucet’s faulty O-rings.
And, if the problem persists even after fixing your faucet’s O-rings then you must try replacing your faucet’s inner cartridge.
So, keeping in mind what needs to be done, you should follow the below-mentioned steps so that the problem of your bathroom faucet leaking at the base can be fixed.
The Faucet’s Internal O-Ring Needs to be Replaced
Below is the list of materials needed.
- Screwdriver set
- Replacement O-rings
- Adjustable pliers or a wrench
Step 1: The Faucet’s Water Supply Needs to be Shut Off
First and foremost, you need to locate the hot and cold water valves which are present underneath the sink.
Secondly, each of these needs to be located in a clockwise direction.
Once you’re done, you need to turn the faucet’s handles to make sure the remaining water if any is present is released.
Step 2: Pop the Faucet Handle Cap Off
In order to expedite this step, you would be needing a screwdriver.
To begin with, take the slotted end of the screwdriver and stick it underneath the center of the handle.
You’ll find a pop cap at this location, and you need to pop it off using a screwdriver.
By doing so, you’ll be able to access the screw that connects the valve stem to the handle.
Step 3: Screw Cap Handle Needs to be Removed
At izzysmarthomeguide.com, we recommend our clients bet on a Phillips screwdriver as we found it to be the best tool for this job.
You need to grab the handle, pull it straight up, and finally, remove it from the valve stem.
If decorative caps are present on your sink and are creating a blockage then you must remove them for a hassle-free removal of the screw cap handle.
Step 4: The Valve from the Faucet’s Body Needs to be Loosened
It is an important step and needs to be expedited with the help of a plier or a wrench.
You need to secure your tool of choice around the valve’s base, and then it needs to be rotated in a counterclockwise direction.
By doing so, you’ll be able to loosen the valve from the faucet body.
Moreover, at a certain point, you should be able to pull up on the base so that the valve is dislodged.
Step 5: Find the O-rings and Pull Them Off
These should be on the valve’s body.
Once you’ve gotten the old O-rings off, you must go ahead and place the new ones on.
Step 6: Everything Needs to be Put Back in Place
You should start by sliding the valve back into the faucet body.
At the same time, you should also make sure that you align any tabs or grooves that you find to ensure a tight fit.
Moving further, you need to carefully tighten the valve with a plier or a wrench.
Refrain from overtightening the valve as it may crack or slip.
Now, you need to slip the faucet handle over the valve stem.
Then, insert the screw in the center of the handle.
Finally, pop the handle cap back on.
All the aforementioned steps are easy to expedite and will not consume much of your time either irrespective of whether you’re expediting them for the first time or you’re a seasoned professional.
Step 7: Test the Faucet
If you’re lucky and everything has worked out in the first go then definitely, your faucet should be on track and will function normally like before.
All you need to do is to turn on the water supply and your faucet and check if everything is normal or if any water leaks out of the base.
Well, if you still see a leak, then you should proceed to the next guide showing you the best and quick way to replace the faucet’s inner cartridge.
The Faucet’s Inner Cartridge Needs to be Replaced
Even after replacing your faucet’s Internal O-ring if things don’t fall into place then the only thing that you can do is to replace your faucet’s inner cartridge.
In simple words, your faucet’s worn-out inner cartridge can be the cause of the leakage problem.
It’s an important part of your faucet as it controls the flow of water into your faucet spout.
An important point to note is that the sink with two handles has an inner cartridge in each handle.
So, if the leak is coming from one handle then you need to replace the inner cartridge of that handle only and not the other one.
Be prepared with the below list of items before expediting the steps.
- Allen wrench
- Pipe wrench or tongue-and-groove pliers
- Phillips and Flathead screwdrivers
- Replacement cartridge(s)
- Plumber’s grease
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
The water supply will be present underneath the sink.
You need to figure out two shutoff valves under your sink that have small, football-shaped handles.
You might be wondering what if I don’t see any such valves?
Well, in that case, you need to look for a valve that has got a lever that you can rotate.
These can be turned off by turning them in a clockwise direction.
Make sure, you don’t overdo it else it may slip or get damaged. Refrain from exerting heavy force on it when it stops moving in a clockwise direction.
In the worst case scenario, you may not be able to find the shut-off valves under your sink then you’ll have to turn off your home’s main water valve while you work.
By doing so, you’ll be able to prevent the interference of water flow while you work.
Step 2: Faucet Handle Needs to be Removed
It goes without saying that most handles come with screws that are present either on their sides or rears.
In case, you don’t see screws then your handle might be having a decorative cap that you need to pop off by simply wedging a screwdriver underneath it.
In layman’s terms, you don’t have an option but to find out the screw that attaches the handle to the faucet and then remove it.
Afterward, you’ve to pull straight up the handle so that it can be properly removed from the faucet.
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Step 3: Remove the Retaining Nut
The retaining nut is located right on the top of the cartridge.
Using a pipe wrench or tongue-and-groove pliers you can loosen it.
The screw needs to be safely kept so that it can be used to secure the new cartridge during the installation process.
Step 4: Remove the Old Cartridge
Before pulling out the old cartridge its orientation needs to be noted.
The best thing that you can do is to take a picture of your old cartridge orientation in order to prevent any last-minute hassle or confusion related to the orientation.
Step 5: Install the New Cartridge
Once you’re done removing the old cartridge the next thing that needs to be done is to install the new cartridge.
The process is newbie-friendly, quick, and will not consume much of your time for sure.
To begin with, place the new cartridge into a slot similar to the older one.
Afterward, you need to replace the screw you took earlier on top of the cartridge to secure it into place.
Also, you may need to apply a bit of the plumber’s grease to the cartridge’s O-ring with your finger.
This will help the cartridge fit into its housing.
Step 6: Put Everything Back in the Place
Yes, you heard it, right?
All the things need to be placed back in place.
You need to finish the project by replacing almost everything that you’ve taken apart for the installation of a new cartridge.
Make sure everything is back in place.
Step 7: Test the Faucet
Once everything is aligned properly and back in place, you need to switch on the water supply attached to your faucet and check for leakage if any.
If everything is fine and there isn’t any leakage then you’re good to go else consult a certified technician if the leakage problem still persists.
How to Deal With Bathroom Faucet Leaking at Base and Under Sink?
Is your bathroom faucet leaking at the base as well as under the sink?
Well, if that is the case, then it doesn’t always mean that you’ve got a more serious issue than you would’ve if the leaking issue was in isolation at your faucet’s base.
In fact, the leak that’s being caused by a faulty O-ring or worn-out cartridge is almost definitely the same leak that’s happening under your sink.
In layman’s terms, it’s probable that the water is simply making its way from the base of your faucet to the underside of your sink.
Most of the time, simply strengthening a simple PVC connection underneath your sink will do the trick for you.
Bathroom Faucet Leaking Under the Handle?
Are you experiencing your bathroom faucet leaking under the handle?
The kind of leakage that I’m talking about is the one in which water will leak from the area where the handle attaches to the faucet body after the water has been turned off or while the faucet is still on.
This type of leakage will be continuous from under the handle area irrespective of whether your faucet is turned on or off.
The problem if left untreated will lead to the collection of debris and specks of dirt in the valve and cartridge.
As a result, the flow of water will not be properly controlled by the respective valves.
The problem can be easily solved by simply replacing the valve/cartridge.
In fact, the part number of the replacement valves will vary depending on the faucet model number.
The first thing that you need to do is to identify your faucet model number. If you’re having any trouble figuring out the faucet model number then you can take help from the faucet parts catalog.
Once you’ve found the faucet model number, replacing the valve/cartridge will be a cakewalk for you.
If you’re not sure how to replace the cartridge you can take the help of a certified plumber.
FAQs
In this section, I’ll be responding to the queries related to bathroom faucets leaking at the base in order to help our readers make an informed decision.
Can I seal the base of my faucet?
Yes, you can seal the base of your faucet, the process is newbie-friendly and easy to expedite irrespective of whether you’re doing it for the first time or you’re a seasoned professional.
All you need to do is to apply a ring of putty around its edges.
Nevertheless, if you’re expecting that it will suddenly and at once stop the leak from occurring then you may get disappointed.
It actually means that you’ll not be noticing the effects of the leak for the time being.
In layman’s terms, it’s a temporary fix.
For the optimum result, you should look for a permanent way of fixing the leaking problem.
Should you caulk around the faucet?
Definitely, you can use caulk around your faucet base but you need to apply it properly and carefully in order to prevent any last-minute debacle.
Also, it’s not necessary to apply caulk around your faucet.
I’ll not deny the fact that caulking is an easy way to seal your sink.
In general, caulking is used on kitchen faucets that don’t have a rubber gasket to prevent leaks.
It’s A Wrap
First and foremost, I would like to thank you for being with us till the end.
Secondly, I would like to bring to your notice that I along with my core team have put loads and loads of effort into coming up with this idiosyncratic piece of information on the topic, bathroom faucet leaking at the base.
And, in case, you liked our effort and want to appreciate us then please do share this post with like-minded people and the ones who are in search of a similar piece of information.
After all, sharing is caring, isn’t it?
Long story short, I’ve tried to the best of my capabilities to help you with relevant and legitimate information on the topic of bathroom faucets leaking at the base.
We at izzysmarthomeguide.com have been recommending the aforementioned of fixing the leaking problem to our clients for quite some time, and the feedback that we’ve received is positive and promising.
Do let us know about your view on this post in the comment section.
If we’ll find your feedback useful we’ll try to inculcate it in our future post.
