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View Full Version : Leaky RO faucet with air gap?



handymam
11-20-2005, 03:33 PM
I recently removed my Rayne reverse osmosis faucet (along with the garbage disposer and "P" trap) from my kitchen sink because the RO Faucet was leaking, but only when used. It seemed to be leaking from its housing located above the sink, althought there was visable water under the sink in the cabinet below. I thought perhaps I needed to replace a washer, gasket or an O-ring.

Upon inspection, before removing the faucet, I only recall seeing one blue tube (water supply line) inserted through the base of the faucet. No other tubes were connected to the two other barbs under the sink. I've since learned that this faucet has an "air gap".

Obviously, I'm NOT a plumber, but after re-installing the faucet, and further testing, I noticed that the larger of the two off-centered barbs leaks water under the sink, along with the faucet's housing above the sink every time the faucet is used.

For the time being, I reconnected the faucet, garbage disposal, and "P" trap. I attached a small 1/4 inch tube to the larger of the two off-centered barbs directing the water from it into a small bucket. The leak from the housing, above the sink, doesn't flow beneath the gasket at this time.

Was there something missing from the barbs that I may have somehow overlooked? Is the "air gap" trapped with a foreign object perhaps causing the leaks? Do I need to replace the entire faucet? In short, I need some expert advise. I've searched online but can't find specific answers to my situation. Any help or advise would be very appriciated!

thanks,
Handymam (Cindy) :confused:

hj
11-20-2005, 04:11 PM
Those two "barbs" are not connected to anything unless they are hooked to plastic tubing. They also are not connected to the faucet water itself, so any leak is from somewhere else.

handymam
11-20-2005, 04:32 PM
WOW!! That's a fast reply!

Sounds like I should just order a new faucet and install it then, right? After all it's 9 years old and gets lots of use with a household of 6. I think I can handle that job. Thanks for you advise. It's very helpful to have your forum. I love reading and learning from all who post here!

Do you answer questions to other needs besides plumbing and electrical? I try my hand at many different home repairs, and would love to have someone with your expertise from time to time. Besides the faucet, I just ripped out all the tile and carpet from the kitchen, living, and dining rooms. Soon to install Laminate flooring. Keep your fingers crossed for me. LOL

Take care and Happy Holiday to you and yours!

Handymam