Repair a Leaking Faucet Valve Stem

Doing repairs on your faucet and diagnosing your faucet valve stem will save you money, and prevent any further damages caused by leaking into various parts where it is present. Follow the guidelines below in making repairs on your leaking faucet valve stem.

Step 1 – Make Preparations

Proceed to your main water supply and turn it off. Bring your tool box with you containing all the things that you need for the task. Have a container for nuts, washers and bolts so you don't lose them while you are working with the faucet.

Step 2 - Removing the Handle of the Faucet

Use an appropriate screwdriver when removing the faucet handle. Place the handle and its screw by the tray.

Step 3 – Dismount the Spigot

Now using the crescent wrench, grip and turn the spigot of the faucet and until it is dismounted and can be pulled free. Verify that the washer is in the spigot. Try to see if there are damage to it or if it may be incorrectly set, as this may be the possible cause of your faucet leak.

Step 4 – Have the Washer Replaced

Take the washer out using a flat screwdriver. Install the replacement washer. Reinstall the handle and the spigot; temporarily turn the water supply on to test the faucet. If there is no leak when shutting the flow of water off, then the problem has been solved. If the leak continues after the installation of the replacement washer, turn the main water supply off and proceed to the next method.

Step 5 - Faucet Valve Stem Verification

Disassemble or dismount the handle and the spigot of the faucet. Using the crescent wrench, release the packing nut, lift it up and pull out your faucet valve stem.

Step 6 - Replacement of Your Faucet Valve Stem Washer

Locate the washer upon your faucet valve stem’s bottom end and remove it. Replace the washer and check the valve stem for corrosion, rust and buildup of hard water that may hinder its efficiency. If the stem is damaged, it is necessary to have it replaced. You can find a new one in hardware stores offering plumbing equipment.

Step 7 – Faucet Valve Stem Reassembly

If you have to replace your faucet valve stem, then install the new one. If you just replaced its washer, then put back what you currently use if it is still working properly. Reassemble the valve using your crescent wrench. Put around some application of lubricating grease on your packing nut and the washer.

Step 8 – Reassemble the Faucet Handle and the Spigot

Put the spigot back by carefully turning it to prevent it from bending from over tightening. Mount the handle back and turn the water supply on. Check for leaks. The repairs that you made should have fixed the problem.