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:

  1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
  2. Remove the screw holding the handle in place.
  3. Pull the handle off the valve.
  4. Remove the valve from the valve housing.
  5. Unscrew the screw on the valve that secures the rubber washer.
  6. Replace the washer with one the same size and thickness.
  7. Reassemble the faucet.
  8. Turn on the water and test for leaks.

Watch this video to find out how.

Further Information

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.

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Danny Lipford

Founder

Danny Lipford is a home improvement expert and television personality who started his remodeling business, Lipford Construction, at the age of 21 in Mobile, Alabama. He gained national recognition as the host of the nationally syndicated television show, Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford, which started as a small cable show in Mobile. Danny's expertise in home improvement has also led him to be a contributor to popular magazines and websites and the go-to source for advice on everything related to the home. He has made over 200 national television appearances and served as the home improvement expert for CBS's The Early Show and The Weather Channel for over a decade. Danny is also the founder of 3 Echoes Content Studio, TodaysHomeowner.com, and Checking In With Chelsea, a décor and lifestyle blog.

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