Anyone who’s ever been in need of a 24-hour plumber in Sarasota, FL knows that there’s not a lot of time to shop around! Fortunately, there are reputable and reliable plumbing companies in Sarasota that offer great rates and prompt service.
What about homeowners who simply have a leaky faucet? According to a major big box store, even a beginner can repair it in under two hours. That is, if they have the specialized tools, the right repair parts, patience, dexterity, and time to dedicate to the task. Many handy homeowners have tackled this task only once, then called a Sarasota plumber the next time. They’ve learned to leave some projects to the experts. Here’s a rundown of what they would need to do it themselves.
DIY Faucet Repair (Think Twice)
Leaky faucets are usually due to a defective or worn part — specifically, a gasket, washer, “O” ring, or corrosion in the valve seat. Figuring out what part is needed and purchasing it may take some time and a few trips to the hardware store.
The tools required include a plumbing wrench, a set of hex keys (may be sold in either metric or inches), and a set of appropriately-sized screwdrivers. It’s also recommended to have a couple of large towels handy.
The first step (after gathering the tools and repair parts) is to turn off the water. There is a valve under most sinks, but if it can’t be located, the water supply for the entire house should be shut off. After this is done, the faucet should be turned on to let out any water. A small towel comes in handy to block the drain opening in the sink so nothing falls in during the repair. Usually, a repair involves the purchase of a faucet stem or faucet cartridge, and a faucet repair kit.
Whew! The next step is to remove the faucet itself. This can be difficult depending on how long it’s been there. In some cases, a hex key or Allen wrench can be used, in other situations, it must be pried off with a flat screwdriver than the screw underneath can be loosened with a Phillips head screwdriver. This only works for sink faucets — removing a bathtub or shower faucet is more complicated.
Next, the cartridge or faucet stem will need to be removed. A wrench must be used to loosen the nut. The assembly can then be pulled straight up and out. If possible, it must be then determined if that part is damaged or defective and in need of replacement. Replacement parts are available in a huge number of shapes and sizes, making it more complicated if the old faucet’s manufacturer and model number are unknown. Most homeowners will need to take the old part to a hardware store to see if they can find the replacement part that matches it.
The area around the project needs to be clean and dry, and any O-rings should be replaced if they appear to be worn or damaged. The new cartridge should then be carefully aligned and inserted. Reattaching the old faucet handle is done by following the steps used to remove it. The water should then be turned back on and both hot and cold water should be tested.
The Advantages of Hiring Plumbing Services in Sarasota Are Easy to See!
A reliable Sarasota plumbing company will arrive promptly with the specialized tools, expertise, and parts on hand to make any dripping faucet or other plumbing issues a distant memory. There’s no need to try to do it yourself; leave it to the experts! Contact us today.
