Repairing a Compression Faucet

Do you happen to have a compression faucet in your home that is leaking? If you do, then don't worry. Chances are it is a problem that you can fix with no more than an hour's worth of work. If you have some previous experience working with faucets, and simple plumbing problems, then chances are you can finish the project in about twenty minutes. All you need to do is follow these simple steps, and you will see how easy repairing a compression faucet can be.

Materials:

• Screwdriver
• Water-pump pliers
• Silicone grease
• Universal washer kit
• O-ring

Procedure:

1. Shut off the water. Before doing any plumbing work you should always shut off the water supply. This will help you to avoid causing any accidents, and having a bigger mess to clean up when you are finished.
2. Unscrew the stem assembly. Remove the handle cap off of the faucet assembly, and then remove the handle screw. Once you have unscrewed the handle screw, remove the handles, and then the packing nut from the body of the faucet. To remove the nut, you will need to use some water-pump pliers.
3. Remove the washer. Use your screwdriver to remove the bib screw that is holding the washer in place. You may need to tap on it gently a few times if it is stuck due to rust. Once you have removed the screw, take out the old washer and throw it away. Take the opportunity to inspect the valve seat, and see if you can feel any roughness. If you find some, replace the valve seat.
4. Separate the stem and retaining nut. Take the nut from off of the valve stem, and inspect the treads for any damage. If you find any, then you will need to replace the stem.
5. Peel off the O-ring. With the nut removed from the stem, slip the O-ring from the groove that holds it. Do your best to keep the O-ring in tact so that you can find a replacement easier.
6. Replace everything. Replace the O-ring, with a new one, and then begin replacing everything back the way that it was. Make sure that you also apply a little bit of silicone grease wherever you had a washer, or O-ring to help ensure that there are no leaks.
7. Test your work. Once you have replaced everything, turn the water supply back on. Check to make sure that there are no leaks, and that the water is flowing properly.