What in Nashville to do if the kitchen faucet won't shut off?

 

Start by Locating the Water Shut-Off Valve

  When your kitchen faucet in Nashville won’t shut off, the first step is to stop water flow. Look under your sink for a small round handle or knob. This is called the water shut-off valve. It is like the main “off switch” for the water going into your faucet. If you turn it clockwise (to the right), it will close and stop water from coming through. In some older setups, the valve might be on the wall near the sink. Make sure the valve is completely shut – sometimes a half-turned position means water is still leaking.

 

Examine the Faucet Handle and Its Connections

  Your faucet has a handle that you lift or turn to let water flow. If the faucet won’t shut off properly, the handle might be loose or not working as it should. Here’s what you can do:

• Use a screwdriver with a simple flat or Phillips head (small tool to turn small screws) to remove the screw hidden under any decorative cap on the handle.
• Gently lift the handle off and inspect the parts inside such as the stem or cartridge. These parts help control water flow.

If anything looks worn, out of place, or if you can see a crack in the plastic or metal, that might be the source of your leak.

 

Check for a Worn Washer or Cartridge

  Inside the faucet, there is often a small rubber piece called a washer or sometimes a cartridge in modern faucets. A washer is like a small, soft ring that presses against a surface to block water when the faucet is turned off. Over time, this rubber part can wear out, crack, or shrink. If it is no longer sealing well, water will continue to drip. To check:

• Look at the washer once the handle is off. It should be intact and flexible.
• Inspect the cartridge if your faucet uses one. This is a piece inside the faucet that controls water flow. If it is damaged, water might sneak out even when you think it is shut off.

If you find a damaged washer or cartridge, it is best to replace it with a new one from a hardware store. The parts are usually standard and inexpensive.

 

Replacing Faulty Parts and Testing the Faucet

  After you have identified a worn washer or damaged cartridge, take these steps:

• Purchase an exact replacement at your local home improvement store.
• Turn the faucet off completely at the shut-off valve to avoid any water spillage.
• Replace the old washer or cartridge after removing it carefully, following the instructions provided with the new part.
• Reassemble the handle and any other components.
• Turn the water back on slowly and test your faucet. Ensure that the water stops fully when the handle is closed.

Taking these steps should stop the leak and fix the issue with your kitchen faucet.

 

When to Call a Professional Expert

  If you try the steps above and your faucet still won’t shut off, it might be time to ask for help. The internal parts might be too worn or there could be an unexpected issue with the plumbing. Professional plumbers have the tools and experience to diagnose and resolve the problem quickly. For example, if you live in Nashville or even if you reside in St. Louis areas, companies like Hoffman Brothers offer full-service residential and commercial plumbing support. They can ensure that everything is fixed properly and safely without further complications.