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Repairing Compression Faucets

Compression faucets are typically older faucets with separate hot and cold handles. The handles turn up to 360 degrees and rise just a bit when turned to the on position.

Repairing a compression faucet is a project many homeowners who are handy with a few basic tools can do themselves.  If you’re not sure what type of faucet you have, see if you can identify the brand and model. Take this information with you to your local store to get the appropriate replacement parts. 

Compression faucets typically leak because of worn washers or damaged valve seats. You can fix these problems yourself by replacing the O-rings. Because O-rings come in several sizes, plan to take the O-ring you’re replacing to the store to match it. To avoid a trip to the store in the middle of your project, you may find it more convenient to pick up a variety pack of O-rings and washers commonly used in faucet repairs before beginning your project. While you’re at the store, you can make your job even easier by picking up a repair kit for your faucet. These kits have everything you need to replace all the parts in your faucet at one time, so your repair will last even longer. Special tools like a handle puller may also come in handy.

Before You Begin
  • Block the drain opening with a cloth.
  • Never reuse an old washer. Purchase a universal kit of O-rings or a faucet repair kit beforehand and prevent a trip to the store in the middle of your project.
  • Some faucets have packing string between the stem and the restraining nut. If so, replace it before reassembling your faucet.
  • Some faucets come with lifetime warranties on parts. Check with the manufacturer for details

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Follow These Steps

Step One
Turn off the water
Turn Off Water
Turn off the water at the shut off valves under the sink or at the main water supply. To learn more about shutting off the water, watch our How to Shut Off a Valve video.

Step Two
Unscrew the packing nut from the body
Unscrew the Stem Assembly
1. Pry off the handle cap.
2. Use a screwdriver to remove the handle screw beneath the cap.
3. Lift up and remove the handle. If it’s corroded, use a handle puller.
4. Use slip joint or water-pump pliers to unscrew the packing nut from the faucet body.

Step Three
Remove bib screw
Take Off the Washer
1. Unscrew the stem assembly with slip-joint pliers.
2. Remove the bib screw that holds the washer in place.
3. Pry off the old washer and use it to select a replacement.

Step Four
Inspect the valve seat
Inspect the Valve Seat
1. Run your finger around the valve seat hole.
2. If the surface feels rough, now is a good time to replace or resurface the seat. Check the related projects menu for easy-to-follow instructions.

Step Five
Unscrew stem from retaining nut
Remove the Stem
1. Unscrew the stem from the retaining nut.
2. Inspect the threads for damage and replace the stem if necessary.

Step Six
Remove the O-ring
Replace the O-ring and Washer
1. Remove the O-ring without cutting it so you can find a replacement.
2. Replace the O-ring.
3. Install a new washer and secure it with a new stem screw.

Step Seven
Reassemble the faucet
Reassemble the Faucet
1. Put the stem assembly back together.
2. Place the stem assembly in the faucet.
3. Reattach the handle.
4. Turn on the water and test for leaks.

Skill Level and Time Required
 

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