Common Issues with Wall Mount Bathroom Faucets and How to Fix Them

April 6, 2024
Common Issues with Wall Mount Bathroom Faucets and How to Fix Them

Written by: Deane Biermeier / Facts Checked by; Ryan Cullenward / Products Tested by Licensed Interior Designers

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Wall-mount bathroom faucets are famous for their sleek design and space-saving benefits. However, like any plumbing fixture, they can encounter common issues that require attention. This blog will discuss the problems associated with wall-mount bathroom faucets and provide step-by-step solutions to fix them. Whether you're dealing with a dripping faucet, low water pressure, leaking connections, rust or corrosion, malfunctioning handles or valves, or clogged aerators, this guide will help you tackle the problems and restore the functionality of your faucet.  

Common Issues with Wall Mount Bathroom Faucets  

A. Dripping Faucet 

A dripping faucet is annoying and can lead to water wastage and increased utility bills. A faulty cartridge or washer within the faucet mechanism is the most likely culprit.  

B. Low Water Pressure 

There could be various reasons if your wall-mount bathroom faucet is experiencing low water pressure. Identifying the cause is crucial for determining the appropriate solution.  

C. Leaking Connections  

Leaking connections can cause water damage to your bathroom walls and fixtures. It's essential to identify the reason for the leak and fix it promptly to avoid further complications.  

D. Rust or Corrosion 

Rust and corrosion not only affect your faucet's appearance but can also impact its functionality. It's essential to address these issues to prevent further damage and ensure your faucet's longevity.  

E. Malfunctioning Handle or Valve 

A malfunctioning handle or valve can make controlling the water flow or temperature difficult. Fixing or replacing the handle/valve mechanism is necessary to restore proper functionality.  

F. Clogged Aerators 

Mineral deposits can accumulate in the aerators of wall-mount bathroom faucets, leading to reduced water flow. Clearing these deposits is essential to restore the faucet's performance.   

G. Water Temperature Fluctuations

One common problem with faucets is experiencing fluctuations in water temperature, where the water suddenly becomes too hot or too cold during use. Differences in hot and cold water pressure can cause fluctuations when adjusting the faucet.

How to Fix Common Issues with Wall Mount Bathroom Faucets  

1. Dripping Faucet  

  1. Shut off the water connection: Locate the shut-off valves beneath the sink and turn them off to stop the water flow.  
  2. Remove the faucet handle: Use a screwdriver or Allen wrench to loosen and remove the handle, exposing the cartridge or washer.  
  3. Replace the faulty cartridge or washer: Inspect the cartridge or washer for damage and replace it with a new one if necessary.  
  4. Reassemble and test the faucet: Put the handle back in place, tighten it securely, and turn on the water connection to check if the dripping has stopped.  

2. Low Water Pressure 

  1. Check water supply valves: Ensure the shut-off valves are fully open and allow maximum water flow.  
  1. Clean or replace the aerator: Unscrew and remove the aerator from the faucet spout, clean it thoroughly, and reinstall it. If cleaning doesn't solve the issue, consider replacing the aerator.  
  1. Inspect and clean the supply lines: Examine the supply lines for any kinks or blockages. Remove any debris or mineral buildup by flushing the lines with water.  
  1. Examine and fix any pipe obstructions: Check for any obstacles in the pipes leading to the faucet and remove them if found.  

3. Leaking Connections 

  1. Turn off the water connection: Shut off the water connection to the faucet using the shut-off valves beneath the sink.  
  1. Tighten loose connections: Use an adjustable wrench or pliers to tighten any loose connections in the faucet's supply lines or valves.  
  1. Apply plumber's tape or thread sealant: If the connections continue to leak, wrap the plumber's tape or apply thread sealant to the threaded parts and reassemble the connections.  
  1. Verify for leaks and retest: Turn on the water supply and check for leaks. If there are no leaks, test the faucet to ensure the issue has been resolved.  

4. Rust or Corrosion 

  1. Clean the affected areas: Use a mild detergent or bathroom cleaner and a soft cloth to clean the rusted or corroded areas of the faucet.  
  1. Apply rust remover or vinegar: If the rust or corrosion persists, apply a rust remover or vinegar to the affected areas and let it sit for a few minutes.  
  1. Rinse and dry thoroughly: Rinse the faucet with clean water and dry it simply using a soft cloth to prevent further rusting or corrosion.  
  1. Protect with a rust-resistant coating: Apply a rust-resistant coating, such as clear enamel or metal polish, to protect the faucet from future rusting.  

5. Malfunctioning Handle or Valve 

  1. Shut off the water supply: Shut off using the shut-off valves beneath the sink.  
  1. Remove the handle and valve: Unscrew or unfasten the handle and remove it with the valve assembly.  
  1. Replace with a new handle or valve assembly: Purchase a new handle or valve assembly that matches your faucet model and install it according to the manufacturer's instructions.  
  1. Reinstall and test the faucet: Securely attach the new handle and valve assembly, turn on the water supply, and check the faucet to ensure it functions properly.  

6. Clogged Aerators 

  1. Turn off the water connection: Shut off the water connection to the faucet using the shut-off valves beneath the sink.  
  1. Unscrew and remove the aerator: Locate it at the end of the faucet spout, unscrew it using your hand or pliers, and remove it.  
  1. Soak in vinegar or descaling solution: Place the aerator in a bowl of vinegar or descaling solution and let it soak for 1-2 hours to dissolve the mineral deposits.  
  1. Rinse, reassemble, and reinstall the aerator: Rinse it with water, reassemble its components, and reinstall it onto the faucet. Turn on the water connection to check if the water flow has improved.  

7. Water Temperature Fluctuations

  1. Ensure that the hot and cold water supply lines have similar pressure levels to prevent sudden temperature changes. Adjust pressure regulators if necessary.
  2. If the faucet is equipped with a thermostatic valve, adjust it according to manufacturer instructions to maintain a consistent temperature.
  3. Insulating hot water pipes can help stabilize water temperature by reducing heat loss and fluctuations caused by external factors.
  4. Consider installing anti-scald devices or pressure-balancing valves to regulate water temperature and prevent sudden changes, especially in households with children or elderly individuals.
  5. Schedule periodic maintenance checks by a plumber to identify and address any plumbing issues contributing to temperature fluctuations, such as leaks or blockages.

Conclusion  

This comprehensive guide provides solutions to common issues with wall-mount bathroom faucets, ensuring you can troubleshoot and fix these problems independently. By following the step-by-step instructions for each issue, you can maintain the functionality and extend the lifespan of your wall-mount bathroom faucet. Remember to take safety precautions, such as shutting off the water connection, before starting any repairs or replacements.

Disclosure: Sanitarysupply.org receives an affiliate commission on some, but not all, of the products we recommend—but only if you decide to click through to the retailer's site and make a purchase.

Deane Biermeier - A senior contractor and an experienced freelance writer - expert for reviews

Deane is an amazing freelancer with wide range of skills. He has good ideas and a prominent passion of writing. He is currently working on many websites including Sanitary Supply.


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