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Fixing a Faucet Washer

easyHome Repair30-60 minutes10 steps

Safety Warnings

  • Shut off the main water supply before disassembly to prevent flooding, unless the specific faucet type allows for closed-valve repair.

Tools Needed

Monkey wrench — check locally
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Screwdriver — check locally
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Seat dressing tool — with cutters for various faucet sizes
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Materials

Replacement washers — check locally(as needed)
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Candle wicking — for packing(as needed)
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Tallow — for lubrication(small amount)
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Steps

1
Shut off the water supply to the faucet and open the handle one or two turns to relieve pressure.
Tip: For some compression faucets, if the faucet is closed, water can stay off during cap nut removal.
2
Remove the faucet handle by unscrewing the handle screw.
Tip: You may need to set the handle back on the stem to use it as leverage to unscrew the stem.
3
Unscrew the cap nut or packing nut using a monkey wrench.
Tip: On some faucets, this is referred to as the stuffing box.
4
Lift out the stem from the faucet body.
Tip: Remove the packing and stem in order after the packing nut is gone.
5
Inspect the faucet seat for nicks or grooves.
Tip: Hot-water faucets are more prone to seat damage than cold-water faucets.
6
If the seat is damaged, use a seat dressing tool to reground or square the seat.
Tip: Center the tool's adjustable cone over the seat and rotate the wheel handle gently.
7
Turn the faucet bottom side up and shake out any metal cuttings from the dressing process.
Tip: This prevents debris from damaging the new washer.
8
Remove the old worn washer from the stem and replace it with a new washer.
Tip: Ensure the washer matches the specific type required for your compression faucet.
9
Renew stem packing by wrapping lubricated candle wicking around the stem before re-inserting.
Tip: Lubricate the wicking with tallow for a better seal.
10
Reassemble the stem, packing nut, and handle; turn on the water to wash out any remaining cuttings.
Tip: Test for leaks immediately after turning the water back on.

Pro Tips

  • A seat dresser saves the cost of buying a completely new faucet.
  • Ensure the metal beneath the gasket is firm and clean for a proper seal.

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Sources

Synthesized from 2 verified sources:

Gutenberg: Simple Plumbing Repairs (FB 1460)View →
USDA Farmers' Bulletin (Gutenberg)View →