When I turn the faucet on the handle starts leaking water?

Question

The handle on my basement faucet leaks whenever I turn the water on. Could it be that the handle is not on tight or what? Any suggestions?

Answer 1

There's a packing nut or bonnet that snugs up against the stem (with some packing in there).  You probably need to tighten the packing nut or bonnet.  Just tighten a little bit at a time

Here's a picture:

http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=h...

Answer 2

A worn washer...typically VERY simple to fix, and much cheaper than calling a plumber.

1) Turn off the water under the sink !! (forgot that step Tim E.)

2) Remove the k**b/handle (there will be a set-s***w or Allen-s***w)

3) Walk out the valve (usually with pliers and a sock to protect the chrome).

4) Take your washer to the store and find a replacement.

5) Reverse steps 1-3

BEFORE you go to the store... check to see how many faucets of the same type you have and buy MULTIPLE washers... there will be others that will fail later, and it's nice to have them around.

Answer 3

More than likely if you take the handle off, it should have a small set s***w that you loosen to remove the handle, then loosen the nut and take off the part underneath the handle.  Once that's done you should see two small rubber pieces with springs under each one.  If you stretch the springs out just a little and put it back together, it should work ok.  If not, you either didn't get the springs stretched enough or the rubber pieces and the springs need to be replaced.  They have the replacement parts packaged together at places like Lowe's or Home Depot.  They're very inexpensive but it's best to take the old ones with you and have the name and model number of your faucet if you have it.  Usually stretching the springs about an 1/8 inch or so will work though.  Good Luck.

Answer 4

A handle leak is usually caused by improper adjusting-ring tension or a worn cam gasket.  

Answer 5

Could be yo need to tightne up the s***w or it could be you need a new washer in it.