Faucet Repair & Installation
What official sources say about faucet repair & installation, and how to reach a local plumber by phone.
Safety first
Moen instructions say always turn water supply off before removing existing faucet or disassembling the valve.
Never take hot water temperature for granted, and always hand-test before using, especially when bathing infants and young children.
Signs to look for
Why it happens
Your options
WaterSense labeled bathroom sink faucets and faucet accessories are high-performing, water-efficient fixtures that will help you reduce water use in your home and save money on water bills.
For more complicated valve leaks in showers that drip when not in use, contact an experienced handyperson or licensed plumber.
Safe steps you can take
Pipe tape, also called teflon tape, is available at most hardware stores, is easy to apply, and can help control leaks.
Moen instructions say open faucet handle to relieve water pressure and ensure that complete water shut-off has been accomplished.
Some leaky showerheads can be fixed by making sure there is a tight connection between the showerhead and the pipe stem and by using pipe tape to secure it.
How to choose a plumber
Advice from consumer protection agencies:
In Illinois, homeowners should request an estimate of the cost of work to be done and compare it to estimates from at least two other contractors.
In Illinois, homeowners should find out if complaints have been filed against the contractor by contacting the Attorney General's office, Better Business Bureau and local Chamber of Commerce.
In Texas, even with a reputable business and a sound written contract in place, you should not pay in full until the work is complete and you have inspected it yourself and found it satisfactory.
In Texas, homeowners should make sure everything promised to you is in the written contract.
In Illinois, plumbers are regulated by the Illinois Department of Public Health and must be licensed by the IDPH to engage in business in Illinois.
If your state or locality has licensing laws, make sure the contractor's license is current.
Once you have narrowed your options, get written estimates from several firms.
Questions homeowners ask
Related plumbing services
Sources
- ins10582 - Moen Inc.
- 1222 Installation Instructions - Moen Inc.
- Home Repair and Construction: How to Choose a Contractor - Illinois Attorney General
- Tap Water Scalds | CPSC.gov - CPSC (U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission) (2012)
- Bathroom Faucets | US EPA - US EPA
- Fix a Leak Week | US EPA - US EPA
- Hiring a Contractor | Federal Trade Commission - Federal Trade Commission (2014)
- How to Avoid Home Improvement Scams | Office of the Attorney General - Texas Attorney General