Plumbing
Repairing Dripping Faucets

Shut off the water to the faucet, either at the pump or where the supply enters the house which is usually on the side next to the street. It should be near the water meter. Some installations have a valve under the sink or lavatory and this is convenient.

On some faucets the handle must be remove to get at the bonnet. To do this, remove the screw on the top of the faucet and remove the handle. Lay out all parts in the order you take them off so you can put them back in that order later.

• With a monkey wrench or adjustable wrench remove the bonnet.

• Remove the valve stem by rotating the handle in the same direction as you would to shut off the water. The assembly should come out.

• Remove the screw on the bottom and pry out the old rubber washer. Be sure to replace the washer with the same size and type. If you do not have a washer of the appropriate size you might try reversing the present washer. This would be a temporary solution especially if the washer is a flat disc and not a coned washer.

• Measure the diameter. For the first replacement buy a package of assorted sizes and remember what size you faucet requires.

• Check the valve seat to be sure it is not scored.

• Replace the faucet assemble in the reverse order you disassembled the faucet.