Owens Corning
How to Fix a Washerless Faucet
Today's faucets don't use compression washers to stop the water flow. This type faucet is less likely to need service and when it does you usually replace the whole valve body. You have to take the valve apart to tell what type it is. Turn off the water at the fixture or at the main valve.

1. Remove screw cover and handle screw: There is usually a decorative cover in the center of the handle that hides the handle screw. Use a screwdriver to pry this cover off. Then remove the screw by turning it counter clockwise and pull the handle up and off the stem.

2. Remove stem nut: Use an adjustable wrench to remove the stem nut (turn it counter clockwise). If the nut is too large for your wrench, wrap tape around the nut to protect its finish and use a channel lock type pliers to loosen the nut.

3. Pull out valve body: Pull up and out on the valve stem to lift out the valve body assembly. If it is difficult to remove, replace the handle so you can get a better grip on the stem. At the end of the valve assembly that comes out of the faucet, you will see a couple of brass disks or a rubber diaphragm. If all you see is a bare shaft, look inside the faucet and pry out the rubber diaphragm. Take it and the valve assembly to your hardware store or home center and buy a replacement.

4. Replace valve assembly: Most replacement parts come with directions and assembly instructions. Follow these tips, otherwise, reverse the steps you took to remove the valve assembly.

Written by the editors of HouseNet.
Copyright HouseNet, Inc.

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