Did You Know: if you’re forced to live with a dripping faucet for a few days before it can be replaced, tie a long string around the end of the faucet and let it hang into the sink. The water will drip directly onto the string and run silently down the drain.
A faulty kitchen faucet doesn’t always mean it’s time to replace it with a newer, shinier model. If your faucet’s dysfunction sounds like one of the following, you may be able to repair it before you drop money on a new one.
- Screeching. Chances are you’ve got an older faucet with rubber washers. Rubber washers harden as they age, which can cause a screeching sound when water comes into contact with them. A replacement washer kit might just be the answer you’re looking for.
- The assembly may simply need to be tightened, although this mechanical sound could also signify a crack in one of the pieces within your faucet.
- A faucet that squeaks tends to be caused by worn threads. DIY’ers can remove the handle and coat the stem with plumber’s grease to quiet the sound.
- A faucet stream that spits instead of offering a steady stream of water most likely has a clogged aerator (the little screen in the head of the faucet). This piece can be cleaned or replaced easily.
- If your kitchen sink sprayer only offers a very low-pressure spray you may need to clean the diverter. This requires taking the faucet apart and soaking the valve in boiling water and vinegar.
If the source of your faucet frustrations is none of the above, it’s probably time to call in a licensed professional.
Competency, skill, and a tradition of excellence make Maplewood Plumbing and Sewer the best choice for your plumbing and remodeling needs. All of our plumbers have extensive industry knowledge and experience.
Maplewood Plumbing and Sewer has been repairing faucets in St. Louis kitchens for more than 30 years. Contact us today at 314-645-6350 or here for more information or to request a bid.
We offer a one-year warranty on all parts and labor excluding washers.