Leaky faucets are not only annoying, but they needlessly waste a lot of water. Replacing the washer in a leaky faucet is a DIY project that’s not that difficult to do. Here’s how to go about it:
- Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
- Remove the screw holding the handle in place.
- Pull the handle off the valve.
- Remove the valve from the valve housing.
- Unscrew the screw on the valve that secures the rubber washer.
- Replace the washer with one the same size and thickness.
- Reassemble the faucet.
- Turn on the water and test for leaks.
Watch this video to find out how.
Further Information
- How to Repair a Leaky Bath Faucet (video/article)
- How to Replace a Kitchen Faucet (video)
- How to Install a Kitchen Sink Faucet (article)
- Cleaning a Faucet Aerator (video)
VIDEO TRANSCRIPT
Repairing a wasteful, annoying, leaky faucet can be a fairly simple process. First turn off the water supply to the fixture and remove the cover and screw holding the valve handle in place so you can remove the handle. Then remove the valve by loosening the packing nut or unscrewing the valve itself from the valve housing. Now remove the set screw on the bottom of the valve along with the old, worn washer. Replace this washer with one of the same size and thickness, then you’re ready to reassemble the pieces in reverse order.
