Most compression valves have a threaded metal spindle with a disc-shaped stem washer on the end. When the spindle is screwed all the way in, the stem washer covers a hole, and water flow to the spout is stopped. Drips from the spout happen when the seal between the stem washer and the rim of the hole (called the “valve seat”) is imperfect. Usually, replacing the stem washer is enough to stop the drip.
Step 1
Turn off the water at the stop valves for the faucet you are fixing then open the faucet and let the water drain out. Remove the handles by prying an index cap off the top with a dull knife or screwdriver and removing the screw hidden underneath.
Step 2
Use channel-type pliers to unscrew a retaining nut or the entire stem assembly from the faucet body. If what you find looks similar to the stem assembly shown in step 3, you’re in the right place.
Step 3
Unscrew the stem screw and remove the stem washer. You must find an exact replacement. A flat washer should always be replaced with a flat washer, for example, even if a profiled washer fits. Your washer may have a size code printed on the back, but it’s usually easiest to bring the whole stem into the hardware store or home center and try on new neoprene parts there.
Step 4
Pry or cut off the O-ring on the stem with a utility knife. This keeps water from leaking under the handle when the faucet is on.
Step 5
Coat the new O-ring and washer with heat-proof grease and install them. Tighten the stem screw enough to hold the washer in place, but do not distort the washer by overtightening. Coat the large threaded spindle threads with heatproof grease to lubricate the action of the faucet valve.
Step 6
Wrap Teflon tape onto the retaining nut threads and screw it onto the faucet body. Tighten lightly with channel-type pliers. Replace the handle, the handle screw, and the index cap. T I P: Unscrew the aerator at the tip of the spout and open the faucet before turning the water back on. This will flush debris from the system.
There are many ways to classify sink faucets, but perhaps the most useful distinction is compression style versus washerless. These names refer to the type of mechanism inside the faucet. Many older faucets are compression type, but most newer ones are washerless, which can be one of three principal types: cartridge, ball, or disc. All one-handle faucets are washerless. The best way to tell if your faucet is a compression type or washerless is to turn the handle. With compression faucets, you can feel the compression building as you crank the handle, even after the water flow has stopped. On washerless models, the handle comes to an abrupt stop.
