If your faucet came loose from the sink, you’re not alone. Over time, faucets can wiggle or shift because of daily use, water pressure, or worn-out mounting hardware. While it may start as a small annoyance, leaving a faucet loose can eventually lead to leaks, damage to plumbing connections, or even a broken faucet. The good news is that this is a common issue with a straightforward fix.
Why Faucets Become Loose
Several factors can cause a faucet to loosen from the sink:
- Loose Mounting Nut: The nut or bracket that holds the faucet underneath the sink may have loosened over time.
- Worn or Broken Washer: Washers or gaskets can degrade, reducing the stability of the faucet.
- Constant Use: Daily turning, pulling, or leaning on the faucet gradually weakens its hold.
- Improper Installation: If the faucet wasn’t tightened securely during installation, it may come loose sooner.
- Corrosion or Rust: Metal parts under the sink can corrode, causing bolts and nuts to lose grip.
Signs Your Faucet is Loose
- The faucet base wiggles when you touch it.
- You notice water seeping around the faucet base.
- Handles or the spout shift slightly when used.
- You hear creaking or squeaking noises when adjusting the faucet.
How to Fix a Loose Faucet
Fixing a loose faucet is usually simple and doesn’t require a plumber unless parts are broken. Here’s how:
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
Locate the shut-off valves under the sink and turn them clockwise to stop water flow.
Step 2: Clear Space Under the Sink
Remove cleaning supplies or items stored in the cabinet to give yourself room to work.
Step 3: Locate the Mounting Nut or Bracket
Using a flashlight, look directly under the faucet base. Most faucets are secured with a large nut, bracket, or screws.
Step 4: Tighten the Nut or Bracket
Use a basin wrench or adjustable wrench to tighten the nut holding the faucet. Turn clockwise until snug but don’t overtighten, as this can crack the sink or damage the faucet.
Step 5: Check Washers and Gaskets
If tightening doesn’t solve the issue, inspect the washer or gasket under the faucet. If worn, replace it with a new one from a hardware store.
Step 6: Reassemble and Test
Turn the water supply back on and test the faucet for stability. Wipe away any water and ensure there are no leaks.
When Parts Need Replacement
If tightening alone doesn’t solve the problem, you may need to replace:
- Mounting Nut: If stripped or corroded, a new one is necessary.
- Bracket Kit: Some modern faucets use brackets instead of nuts; replacement kits are widely available.
- Washers/Gaskets: Essential for stability and preventing leaks.
- The Faucet Itself: If the faucet body is cracked or severely corroded, replacement is the only solution.
Costs of Repair
- Replacement washers/gaskets: ₦1,500–₦5,000 ($5–$15 internationally).
- New mounting kit: ₦5,000–₦15,000 ($15–$40 internationally).
- Professional plumber service: ₦10,000–₦25,000 locally ($100–$200 in the US).
- Full faucet replacement: ₦25,000–₦120,000+ ($80–$400 internationally), depending on brand and style.
How to Prevent a Faucet from Coming Loose Again
- Ensure mounting nuts are tightened properly during installation.
- Avoid leaning or placing weight on the faucet spout.
- Inspect washers and gaskets every few years and replace as needed.
- If installing a new faucet, use both a gasket and sealant (such as silicone) for extra stability.
FAQs
1. Can I tighten a faucet without turning off the water?
It’s best to turn off the water supply. While you may be able to tighten the nut without doing so, moving parts around could cause leaks if water is still on.
2. What tool do I need to fix a loose faucet?
A basin wrench is the best tool for tightening nuts in tight spaces under a sink. An adjustable wrench can also work if space allows.
3. Why does my faucet keep coming loose?
It could be due to worn washers, vibration from use, or improper installation. Replacing old parts usually solves the problem.
4. Should I use plumber’s putty or silicone when reinstalling?
Yes, applying a thin layer of silicone around the faucet base can help seal it and keep it stable, especially on stone sinks.
5. How do I know if I should replace instead of repair?
If the faucet is old, corroded, or has multiple issues beyond being loose, replacement is usually more cost-effective.
Conclusion
If your faucet has come loose from the sink, don’t panic—it’s a very common issue and usually an easy fix. In most cases, tightening the mounting nut or replacing a worn washer will restore stability. If parts are damaged, affordable replacement kits are available. By fixing the issue early, you’ll avoid leaks, water damage, and the frustration of a wobbly faucet.