Kitchen faucets are among the most heavily-used fixtures in your home. Often, the faucets will show signs of wear and tear that require repair or replacement over time. The good news is that there are many different types of faucets available, allowing you to find one that suits your style and needs.
One of the most important things to keep in mind when considering whether to repair or replace your Kitchen faucet repair is to determine how much time you want the fixture to last. It’s not unusual for people to have buyer’s remorse over the cost of replacing new fixtures, but it’s also possible to get another decade or more of service out of your current faucets, saving you from having to spend money on additional replacements in the future.
A common cause for a faucet to begin acting up is the buildup of mineral deposits on its parts. These can restrict water flow and cause the spout to feel clogged or weak. Performing a simple maintenance routine like flushing the water lines can help reduce these deposits, but you may need to call a plumber if your faucet isn’t performing as it should.
The type of faucet you have will influence how easy it is to perform maintenance and repairs. For example, some models of faucets have separate hot and cold water handles, while others have a single handle that controls both functions. Also, the way a faucet is mounted to the sink can impact how easy it is to work on. Some styles mount to the sink, while others have a spout that extends over the sink.
If your faucet’s aerator is the problem, the first step will be to disassemble it and clean out any buildup. You’ll need a few tools for this project, including a set of pliers and a wrench. While you’re doing this, turn off the water supply line underneath the sink to prevent water from leaking during the repair process. It’s also helpful to take a picture of all the existing components, so you know where each part belongs when you put it back together.
Once the aerator is removed, you’ll need to determine whether your faucet has a cartridge or a ceramic disc valve. If the cartridge is cracked, it’ll need to be replaced. If the ceramic disk is clogged, you can try cleaning it out with a screwdriver and some vinegar. To do this, remove the cap on the valve stem assembly and use a screwdriver to loosen the hex screw holding the disc in place. After removing the disc, wipe down the entire assembly and replace any decorative caps on the top.
Next, drain the remaining water in your faucet by re-opening the shut-off valves under the sink. Now you can disconnect the water supply lines from the faucet’s base using a pair of Channellock pliers. It may be necessary to wiggle the hoses a bit to disengage them, but be careful not to lose the washer that holds each one in place. Once the old washer is removed, you can replace it with a new washer that matches the original, or you can replace the entire seat washer assembly.