Fixing A Compression Faucet
Compression faucets are the type that uses two handles. Using one handle provides you with the warm water and using the other one will avail you cold water. It basically consists of a stem that has a washer that when shuts off the flow of water.
The working mechanism of compression type faucets is just very simple. But these posses rubber o- rings that tend to wear and tear with time. Washers in the hot water tap tend to wear out before those in the cold water tap.
Since, these are more prone to leaks and fissures, let us see some steps about fixing them. First of all Turn off the water at the water supply under the sink. If you don’t see these shutoffs, you’ll have to shut off the main water supply. Next, pry with the screwdriver and open the decorative plastic cap located at the top.
Loosen the lock-nut inside with a crescent wrench. Once the nut is loosened and removed, pull out the stem. With some types of faucets, the stem itself may be threaded into the body of the faucet assembly. You’ll have to turn it counter-clockwise to loosen and remove it.
Once you get the stem out, look for the rubber washer; the black round thing at the end of the stem. If you see a screw, get a screwdriver and take it out.
Remove the old washer by removing the brass screw and by taking a screwdriver into the screw hole in the washer, just pop the old washer out. Replace with the correctly sized washer. Taking the old one to the hardware store is the best way to fit a new washer.
If the faucet still leaks after you’ve replaced the washer, you may have to replace the valve seat, which requires a special wrench. The valve seat is located below the stem and can be accessed when the stem is removed.
Reassemble the faucet by replacing the valve stem and body, cover, handle and cap. Make sure to tighten the valve body into its seat securely. Restore the water supply and check for leaks. If you are unable to set it right, take professional’s aid.
Scott Rodgers is an author with ample plumbing experience all over the country. His exemplary guidance has generated business opportunities for a lot of West Hills Plumbers (Need one?click here!) and Cardiff by the Sea Plumbers (Need one?click here!).
categories: Home and Plumbing,Home Accessories,Plumbing,Plumbers,Home plumbing system,Plumbing issues,plumbing solutions,Home,Home Repair,Home and Garden,Home Improvement,Business,Career,Others