Fix a Single Handle Valve Faucet | |
The most challenging part of repairing a leaky single lever faucet is figuring out what type of faucet you have and how to take it apart. Once you have it apart, you can take the parts to your local hardware store or home center and purchase a repair kit. 1. Identify faucet type: This type of faucet has its control lever connected to a shaft that comes out of the back of the faucet body. Before you begin, turn off the water supply to the faucet by closing the stop valves under the sink or turning off the main water supply. 2. Remove spout and escutcheon: To expose the valve assembly, you will first have to remove the spout and decorative faucet cover called the escutcheon. Loosen the spout ring by turning it counter clockwise. If you cannot loosen it with your hand, then wrap tape around the ring to protect the finish and use a channel lock pliers to remove it. Pull up on the spout as you twist it back and forth and it will come loose. 3. Remove strainer plug to replace valve mechanism: Use an adjustable wrench to remove the strainer plugs located on the shoulders of the faucet body. Pull out the spring and valve stem located under the plugs and take them to your local hardware store or home center and purchase a repair kit. Then follow the instructions included with the kit and replace all old parts, including the valve seats. Check that the kit includes an L-shaped hex wrench to loosen the valve seats. If not, purchase one to fit the new valve seats included in the kit. Written by the editors of HouseNet. Copyright HouseNet, Inc. |