Fix a Leaky Faucet
Drip...Drip...Drip...

It's three in the morning, and you can't sleep anymore with that constant noise, can you? Well, don't worry about fixing the darn thing tonight, just throw a towel under the drip for now and go back to sleep. In the morning you can fix the leak in a more permanent way.

There are three general styles of faucets around. The first kind is the one that uses two different handles for hot and cold water. See the instructions below for this type of faucet.

The second and third kinds both use one pivoting handle for both hot and cold water. If it's a "ball-type" faucet, with a rounded top, you can buy a generic kit that contains special tools. Then just follow the instructions below. If it's a "cartridge type", with a squared-off top, it will use one of a number of various cartridges.

Unfortunately, it's not possible to show each maker's specific unit here. The box that your cartridge comes in will contain directions for installing it; just make sure that you get the correct cartridge for your fixture. In any case, make sure that you plug the drain before beginning any repairs, so parts don't fall down it!

Turn off the water

Ninety-nine percent of the time, you're going to find a water valve right under your sink that controls the correct faucet. If not, you're going to have to follow the plumbing line to the nearest one. When you have found that valve, turn it clockwise until you can't anymore.

If the valve resists being turned, put a drop or two of oil right where the stem disappears into the large nut. Then use the wrench to loosen the nut one complete turn, and tighten it back up by hand. Wait for a couple of minutes and try again.

Step 2 Remove the stem

If you have a two handle fixture, there will be a large nut right under the faucet handle. Then...:

• Turn the nut counterclockwise to unscrew it completely. If you're concerned about scratches from the wrench, put some masking tape over the nut before loosening it.
• Grasp the handle and turn it counterclockwise, as if you were turning on the water. The whole thing will lift out in your hand.
• If you have a ball-type fixture, there will be a set screw on the lower surface of the handle itself. Then:
• Use the supplied hex wrench to loosen the screw and remove the handle. Then use the supplied special tool to loosen the plastic adjusting ring from the knurled, rounded cap. Unscrew and remove the cap.
• Pull out the ball assembly by tugging on the lever that’s sticking up.

Replace the washer, and finish up

You're almost home now! Use the steps below for a two handled faucet.

• The washer is that rubber-like thing at the bottom of the assembly in your hand. There will be a screw holding it on. Remove the screw, and replace the washer with one that's the same size. Tighten the screw back on firmly, but without damaging the washer.
• Reinsert the stem assembly, and twist it firmly clockwise (don't over tighten it). Tighten the large nut back into place.
• Turn the water valve counterclockwise to open it.
• That's it! If the darn thing still drips, a professional should be called in to polish the worn valve seat or replace the fixture.

On the other hand, use the following steps for a ball-type fixture:

• Using the end of the screwdriver, lift out the rubber seats and springs. Replace them with the new ones in the kit.
• Tug the spout off the base by turning it from side to side and lifting up. Then use the screwdriver to leverage the old O-rings off the base. If they need to be cut off, make sure that you clean off any remaining pieces. Roll the new O-rings over the base to replace them.
• Re-seat the faucet by turning it from side to side while pushing down. Place the ball assembly back in there, and screw the rounded, knurled cap back on.

Before re-tightening the adjusting ring with the special tool, turn the water back on. Then tighten the ring until no water leaks, but don't over tighten it. Replace the handle, and tighten the set screw. That’s it!