⚡ SheetCraft is experimental — send feedback or vote on guides to help us improve.

Fixing a Leaky Compression Faucet

mediumHome Repaircheck locally10 steps

Safety Warnings

  • Shut off the main water supply before disassembly to prevent flooding
  • Use caution when applying force with wrenches to avoid stripping hexagonal nuts

Tools Needed

Monkey wrench — Adjustable
Buy →
Screwdriver — check locally
Buy →
Seat dressing tool — Adjustable threaded cone with cutters
Buy →

Materials

Replacement washers — Check size/type (top washers)(as needed)
Buy →
Candle wicking — Lubricated with tallow(small amount)
Buy →

Steps

1
Shut off the water supply to the faucet and open the handle one or two turns to drain remaining water.
Tip: For certain compression faucets, water can remain on if the faucet is kept closed while removing the cap nut.
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 for leverage to unscrew the stem.
3
Unscrew the packing nut (or cap nut) using a monkey wrench.
Tip: None
4
Remove the packing and lift out the stem from the faucet body.
Tip: None
5
Inspect the seat for nicks or grooves. If damaged, screw the seat dressing tool into the faucet body.
Tip: Center the tool over the seat using the adjustable cone.
6
Rotate the wheel handle of the seat dresser several times to square the seat.
Tip: Turn the faucet bottom side up and shake out the metal cuttings.
7
Replace the old seat washer with a new washer on the stem.
Tip: Ensure the washer matches the specific compression faucet type (e.g., top washer).
8
Renew the stem packing by wrapping a small amount of lubricated candle wicking around the stem.
Tip: Ensure a brass friction washer is in the bottom of the stuffing box if applicable.
9
Reassemble the faucet by inserting the stem, tightening the packing nut, and replacing the handle.
Tip: None
10
Turn on the water supply and operate the faucet to wash out any remaining cuttings.
Tip: None

Pro Tips

  • Hot-water faucets are more prone to seat damage (nicking and grooving) than cold-water faucets.
  • A seat dressing tool is a cost-effective alternative to replacing the entire faucet.

Was this guide helpful?

Share this guide

Sources

Synthesized from 2 verified sources:

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