## How to Tighten a Kitchen Sink Gooseneck Spout
A loose kitchen sink gooseneck spout can be a nuisance, causing water to leak or spray from the base of the spout. Fortunately, tightening a gooseneck spout is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes with the right tools.
### Materials You’ll Need:
– Adjustable wrench
– Plumber’s putty (optional)
### Step-by-Step Instructions:
**1. Shut off the water supply:**
– Locate the water supply valves under the sink and turn off both the hot and cold water valves.
**2. Remove the aerator:**
– The aerator is the small, screen-like attachment at the tip of the spout. Use a wrench to unscrew the aerator and set it aside.
**3. Loosen the packing nut:**
– The packing nut is a large nut located at the base of the spout where it connects to the sink. Use the adjustable wrench to loosen the packing nut by turning it counterclockwise.
**4. Tighten the mounting nut:**
– Once the packing nut is loose, you can access the mounting nut. Use the adjustable wrench to tighten the mounting nut by turning it clockwise.
**5. Retighten the packing nut:**
– After tightening the mounting nut, retighten the packing nut by turning it clockwise. Tighten the packing nut until it is snug, but avoid overtightening.
**6. Apply plumber’s putty (optional):**
– If the spout still leaks after tightening, you can apply a small amount of plumber’s putty around the base of the spout. Roll the putty into a thin snake and wrap it around the base of the spout.
**7. Replace the aerator:**
– Screw the aerator back onto the tip of the spout and hand-tighten it.
**8. Turn on the water supply:**
– Go back to the water supply valves under the sink and turn on the hot and cold water valves.
**9. Check for leaks:**
– Run the water through the spout and check for any leaks. If there are still leaks, tighten the packing nut further.
### Additional Tips:
– If the packing nut is very old or corroded, you may need to replace it.
– If you are still having trouble tightening the spout, you may need to call a plumber.
– Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the aerator and tightening the spout, can help prevent leaks.
### Troubleshooting:
**Why is my gooseneck spout still leaking?**
– The packing nut may not be tight enough.
– The mounting nut may be loose.
– The packing nut may be worn or damaged.
– The O-ring inside the spout may be damaged.
**How do I fix a worn or damaged packing nut?**
– Replace the old packing nut with a new one.
– Apply plumber’s putty around the base of the new packing nut before tightening it.
**How do I fix a damaged O-ring?**
– Call a plumber to replace the O-ring.