If you have a compression faucet, it will have two handles – one for the hot water and one for the cold water. In order to control the pressure of your water, compression faucets use a system of seals and washers.
Compression faucets have been around the longest and are very common in older homes. When a compression type stem springs a leak it is usually because its washer, located at the tip, has worn out, allowing water to seep between it and the faucet’s seat. Usually this leak can be stopped by replacing the old washer.
One can easily repair the leaks in the faucet. The write up provides you the steps to carry out project more effectively. Shut off the water to the faucet. Take apart your sink. You will need a screwdriver and pliers for this task. Take off the decorative covers on both faucets.
Once the cap is removed, it will reveal a screw that holds the handle onto the valve stem. Remove the screw and firmly pull off the handle. To remove the valve stem assembly cover, unscrew the knurled knob that holds it on and remove the cover.
At the end of the stem you’ll find the old washer on the end sitting in a valve seat. It will be held in place with a screw and it will look pretty well beaten up and crushed.
On finding the worn out washer, replace it with the new one. One can easily find these rubber washer from the nearby home improvement store.
Having replaced the washer if could not stop the leaks, well in that case unscrew the valve stem assembly from the housing. You can use an adjustable wrench, pipe wrench or channel-lock pliers. There are chances that it is faulty.
Reassemble the stem and faucet assembly back to their places. Turn on the water supply and test for drips and leaks. If no leaks are found, no plumber is required. But if case you fail to stop the leaks, call in the plumber to set it right.
Scott Rodgers is an author with ample plumbing experience all over the country. His exemplary guidance has generated business for a lot of West Hills Plumbers (Need one?click here!) and Cardiff by the Sea Plumbers (Need one?click here!).
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