How Do You Repair A Leaky Stem Faucet On A Bathroom Sink?
Stem faucets, also called compression faucets, include most types of traditional bathroom faucets with separate knobs or handles for the hot and cold water. When a handle is turned, a threaded metal stem underneath turns up or down to permit or stop the flow of water into the faucet body and spout. At the bottom end of the stem, a rubber stem washer creates a watertight seal between the stem and the valve opening, or valve seat, while an O-ring seals the metal parts inside the stem assembly. The most common repair for a stem faucet is replacing worn stem washers and O-rings. Turn off the water supply to the faucet by closing the shutoff valves on the hot and cold water lines (look for football-shaped handles under the sink). Remove the screw securing the handle to the stem of the faucet using a screwdriver; you may have to pry off a decorative cap on top of the handle to expose the screw. Pull off the handle from the stem. If it’s stuck, use a faucet handle puller (available at hardwar
