Coat it in heat-proof plumber’s grease to protect it. Use a screwdriver to loosen and remove the handle screw, then remove the handle. If you are attempting to fix a leaky faucet yourself, you will need to figure out what type of faucet you are dealing with. A bad O-ring can also be the culprit behind leaks. How to Fix a Leaky Faucet. KS Services LLC. As time goes on, the washer inside the faucet that shuts off water flow when the handle is tightened wears out. Pry the decorative cap on top of the faucet handle off with a thin knife blade or utility knife. Our plumbers know how to fix a leaky compression faucet and troubleshoot common problems. Each kind of faucet proceeds its job in different ways. Contact KS Services to schedule plumbing repair. And finally, the most popular culprit is worn o-rings and seals. Check for pitting, corrosion, or other damage. There are four main kinds of faucets: compression, cartridge, ceramic disk, and ball type. If the faucet seat is damaged, you will need to replace the entire faucet. Compression faucets use a rubber washer to control water flow. The most common reason for a leak in a compression faucet is a worn-out washer. These faucets are the type which use a washer that when compressed against a seat in the faucet body (by tightening the faucet handle) shuts off the flow of water. Step 1: Tighten the nut Remove the faucet handle by unscrewing the screw that attaches it, which is often covered by a decorative cap you'll need to carefully pry off. As you disassemble the faucet, keep parts in order so you know how to reassemble them correctly. Remove the bonnet nut that holds the stem valve assembly in the faucet. Line up the parts you remove from the faucet in order near your work space. How to fix a leaky two-handle kitchen faucet. Run your finger inside the faucet seat, where the valve stem was removed. How To Fix a Leaky Faucet. How to Fix a Leaky Faucet (Compression-Type Faucet Repair) The first thing to do when fixing a faucet drip is to turn off the water supply. You may be able to find out by searching for your make and model of faucet. Turn the water off and check the temperature of the drip to determine which side is leaking. She writes two electronic newsletters and has a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from Clemson University. Unscrew the washer at the bottom of the handle stem, and replace it with a new washer. Allow enough time to complete the repair to avoid having the water off for an extended period. The stem is on the O-ring, and the O-ring is on the seat washer. Take the damaged parts to the hardware store and find replacements of the same size and type. How To Fix a Leaky Compression Faucet: Most leaky compression faucets need new seat washers. Look underneath your sink for the pipes that run up. Take off each handle; You’ll have to remove the nut. Fixing a leaky faucet can be tricky. To fix a leaky faucet you need to change the washer, O-ring, or the gasket of the valve stem. The hardest part about changing a washer in a leaking compression faucet is finding the right replacement washer. Diane Watkins has been writing since 1984, with experience in newspaper, newsletter and Web content. Lift the stem valve assembly out of the faucet and look for visible damage. How to repair a compression faucet repair a leaky compression faucet repairing a kitchen faucet how tos diy tutorial for repairing a compression faucet. It should pop off easily. Replace the new or repaired stem valve in the faucet with the new rubber washer on top. 11 Fixing your leaky faucet is both economical and eco-friendly. Pry off the decorative cap on the handle, remove the handle screw, pull off the handle and use a crescent wrench to unscrew the packing nut. Unscrew the packing nut on the stem assembly and take it apart, keeping all parts in order. If you need replacement parts, take the old part with you to the hardware store to ensure you purchase the correct size and component. How to Fix Leaky Compression Faucets Always reassembling your faucet, make sure to turn on the water to check if it is working fine. Unfortunately, compression faucets are more prone to leaks than other types of faucets – they also require more maintenance. Step 4| Replace The O-Rings If it’s the faucet’s handle that’s leaking, the culprit might be worn out o-rings. Repairing a Leaky Compression Faucet After preparing and identifying the type of faucet, the next step is to take action. Be careful to avoid scratching the faucet. If the leak doesn’t stop after the first valve is turned off, it’s the other line that’s leaking. If any damage is found, replace the entire stem valve. Typically, replacing the washer is what is needed to stop a leak in this type of. Replace the handles and secure them with screws. If you’re unable to resolve the leak or are not comfortable performing the steps yourself, please give us a call – our plumbers will be happy to address this issue for you. Also, mineral deposits from your water can be an issue. You need to close both valves. You should be able to turn off the supply at a nearby shutoff, but if your house is not equipped with shutoffs for individual fixtures, you'll have to go to the main shutoff and turn off the entire water supply to your home. Ball Faucet – This faucet includes a ball bearing. Replace the retaining nut and tighten it with pliers. Birmingham Ductless Mini Split Repair & Installation Services. You should be able to see the exposed stem assembly. How to Replace the Cartridge for Low Water Pressure in the Kitchen Sink, How to Disconnect a Moen Pop-up Tub Drain Stopper, How To Check & Repair a Brass Plumbing Valve, How to Repair a Leaky Kohler 16111-4A Revival Faucet, How to Repair O-Rings on Dripping Faucets, University of Arizona Cooperative Extension: Pin Point Leaks. Use a screwdriver to remove the handle screw, then pull off the handle. They’re commonly found in older homes and may also be used in newer homes because their cost is low compared to other faucet styles. Wear a helmet if you are really clumsy. To avoid wasting water and money, it’s helpful to know how to fix a leaky compression faucet, which is the most common type of faucet used in homes. Turn on the water to your sink for the pipes that run up older homes may... Courses in biochemistry and education is normally cause by one of a seat washer securely with pliers, screw,! 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