THE PROJECT: Compression-type faucet
The compression-type faucet is the oldest, most common, and least expensive of the four. It has two control handles. A stem with an affixed washer raises and lowers to open and close the water valve as you turn each handle. What usually needs repair on this type of faucet is the washer and/or valve seat, which gets worn out from the compression and grinding. Know that you may have a choice on how to proceed with this fix. You can either repair the old valve assembly or replace it with a new replacement cartridge—some manufacturers are now offering this as an option. Check online or with your plumbing supply store about a replacement cartridge for your compression type faucet. If the cartridge is available, go with it! Though it will be more expensive initially, cartridges last much longer than seats and washers. Just follow Steps 1, 2, 3, and 5, and then insert the cartridge.
1. With the water shut off from the shut-off valves, remove the handles. To do this you must locate a screw that is usually hidden beneath a decorative cap. Gently pry the cap off with a metal nail file or flathead screwdriver. With the screw exposed, unscrew it and lift off the handle.
2. Locate the packing or retaining nut. With tongue-and-groove pliers or an adjustable wrench, turning counterclockwise, unscrew the packing nut and put it to the side.
3.With the valve stem now exposed, pop the handle back on the stem, and use it to easily unscrew the valve assembly up and out of the valve chamber.
4. On the bottom of the valve stem, you’ll see that the washer is screwed in place by a single brass screw. It will likely be split and corroded. It may have even broken off and is sitting in the valve chamber. It’s best to take the entire assembly to the plumbing store for the correct washer replacement.
5. In addition to new washers, you should examine the valve seat. Run your finger along it to see if there are bumps that would prevent a tight seal. If there are imperfections it must be corrected by either replacing or redressing the valve seat, which will depend on the type of seat you have.
• The replaceable valve seat will have a hex or slotted shape in its center. You’ll need a valve-seat wrench to unscrew it. Insert the wrench and unscrew the valve seat. Bring it to the store for replacement.
• The fixed-type valve seat will have a simple round hole in it. You’ll need a valve seat dresser to resurface the seat. Insert the seat dresser into the chamber and give it a few spins to “dress” the seat. Do so until the seat looks shiny. Be sure to wipe away the metal shavings with a rag once it’s dressed.
6. With steel wool or a scrubber, clean the valve stem.
7. Screw on the new washer, being sure that it’s snug, but not deformed.
8. Hand-screw the valve stem back into the chamber and then reinstall the retaining nut with pliers or a wrench.
9. Pop the handles back on, but don’t screw them on yet. Turn the water back on and make sure the handles and faucet are not leaking. Screw on the handles, snap on the caps, and you’re done!
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