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- Project Guide: Replacing a Worn Valve Seat
Leaks can occur on a compression faucet when friction from the valve stems
causes the surface of the seat to become uneven over a long period of time. If
you’ve already replaced the compression washer, and your faucet still leaks,
it may be due to the valve seat. Repairing a worn valve seat is a project many
homeowners who are handy with a few basic tools can do themselves. You can
take the original valve seat to the store and match it to get the right
replacement part. Be aware, however, that not all valve seats are designed to
be removed, so be sure to inspect inside the faucet body. If it has a square
or hexagonal hole or a slot for a screwdriver, the seat can be replaced. If
not, you may still be able to fix the problem by resurfacing the seat. Refer
to our Resurfacing
Worn Valve Seats project guide in the related projects menu. As you work
on your project, be sure to follow any instructions that come with your faucet
or replacement part.
| Before You Begin | |
|
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Available at Your Local Store:
· Water-pump pliers
Follow These Steps
Step One
| 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
| Remove the Handle |
| 1. | Pry off the handle cap. |
| 2. | Remove the screw holding the faucet in place. |
Step Three
| Remove the Valve |
| 1. | Use water-pump pliers to loosen and remove the compression valve. |
| 2. | Set aside and save any washers and O-rings. |
Step Four
| Remove the Old Valve Seat |
| 1. | Select a head that fits snugly in the valve seat and place the head on the seat wrench. |
| 2. | To remove the old valve seat, insert the wrench into the seat and turn it counterclockwise quickly and firmly. If the valve is stuck, apply penetrating oil or spray lubricant, wait a few minutes, then try again. |
Step Five
| Install the New Seat |
| 1. | Put a new seat in the faucet and set it in place with the seat wrench. |
| 2. | Set the new seat by turning the wrench clockwise firmly. |
Step Six
| Reassemble the Faucet |
| 1. | Before reassembling the faucet, flush any ground off debris out of the system. Cover the hole with a rag and turn the water on gently to flush the system. |
| 2. | Assemble the compression valve, faucet handle and handle cap. |
| 3. | Turn the water on and check for leaks. |
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