Compression faucets are the type that uses two handles. Using one handle provides you with the warm water and using the other one will avail you cold water. It basically consists of a stem that has a washer that when shuts off the flow of water.

Compression faucets have been around the longest and are very common in older homes. When a compression type stem springs a leak it is usually because its washer, located at the tip, has worn out, allowing water to seep between it and the faucet’s seat. Usually this leak can be stopped by replacing the old washer.

One can easily repair the leaks in the faucet. The write up provides you the steps to carry out project more effectively. Shut off the water to the faucet. Take apart your sink. You will need a screwdriver and pliers for this task. Take off the decorative covers on both faucets.

Loosen the lock-nut inside with a crescent wrench. Once the nut is loosened and removed, pull out the stem. With some types of faucets, the stem itself may be threaded into the body of the faucet assembly. You’ll have to turn it counter-clockwise to loosen and remove it.

At the end of the stem you’ll find the old washer on the end sitting in a valve seat. It will be held in place with a screw and it will look pretty well beaten up and crushed.

Now you are ready to take the stem to your local hardware or plumbing supply store in place of the replacement washer that fits your stem. Replace with a new washer.

If the faucet still leaks after you’ve replaced the washer, you may have to replace the valve seat, which requires a special wrench. The valve seat is located below the stem and can be accessed when the stem is removed.

Reassemble the stem and faucet assembly back to their places. Turn on the water supply and test for drips and leaks. If no leaks are found, no plumber is required. But if case you fail to stop the leaks, call in the plumber to set it right.

Scott Rodgers is an author with ample plumbing experience all over the country. His splendid guidance has created business opportunities for a lot of West Hills Plumbers and Cardiff by the Sea Plumbers .

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