How To Fix a Leaky Faucet
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Is anything more annoying than a leaky faucet? Maybe not. But it's also well within your power to fix it yourself with Danco. Read on, to find out how.
Tools Required: Phillips screwdriver, Flat Screwdriver, Pliers
Step
1
First, determine the source of the leak. Place your hand under the leak. If the leak is warm or hot to the touch its source is the hot handle. If its cold, the leak originates from the cold handles. Now, shut off the water at the Stop Valves. Next, remove the Handle so the Stem is visible. You will need to remove the Handle Screw first. And, if your Handles have Caps, you will need to remove these to find the Handle Screw.
Step
2
Remove the Stem by using a Wrench and rotating it counter clockwise until it threads out entirely.
Step
3
Take a look at the Washer which is located on the lower end of the Stem. If the Washer is squeezed flat or has a groove worn in it, a Washer Kit coupled with a new Faucet Seat will likely solve your problem. Take your bad Washer and Faucet Seat to your local home improvement store to match to the correct Washer Kit.
Click here to find out more about finding the right part in your local home improvement store.
If the water is leaking from underneath the Handle onto the countertop, it may be necessary to replace the entire Stem Assembly in your Faucet. Sometimes this is also necessary to solve a dripping Faucet if the Stem is corroded, so you should check your Stem at the same time you look at the Washer and Seat.
If your Stem has corroded, you will need to take your Stem to a local home improvement store and use the Danco Picture Perfect Locator System. This system makes it easy to find your replacement by using a couple of simple tools.
Watch the video at the top of this page to learn more about finding the right stem in your local home improvement store.
Step
4
Once you have purchased your new Stem, you can install it into your Handle. Also replace the Seat when you replace the Stem. The correct Seat is included in the package with each new Stem. Prior to removing the Seat, purchase a Seat Removal Tool or use an Allen Wrench.
Step
5
Replace your Stem and Seat.
Step
6
Then replace your handle and reattach with the Set Screw. If your Handle has a Handle Button, snap that back into place as well.Turn water back on. Check to ensure the leak is fixed.