How to Replace the Stem and Seat of a Leaky Faucet
Unfortunately, over time, faucet plumbing components wear out and eventually leak. If you find the problem and replace the leaky faucet early, you can avoid any ensuing water damage. Here's how to fix a leaky faucet by replacing the stem and seat. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Tub and shower kit
- Ratchet
- Hacksaw (not always necessary)
- Faucet seat wrench
Instructions
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1
Turn off the water from the main control panel.
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2
Remove the water handle for the leaky faucet. You'll have an indication of which handle has the problem by identifying the temperature of the water that is leaking. Use a flat head screwdriver to pry the cap off. After you remove the cap, you will have access to the screw that affixes the handle to the inner workings. Unscrew the screw and gently pull the handle until it comes off.
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3
Take off the trim and inner collar pieces. Some collars have an allen screw located on the bottom. Loosen it to remove the collar. Others just require that you rotate them to the left to remove it from the wall.
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4
Remove the insert which houses the stem and stem seat. This is easier to do with a tub and shower socket kit, which have the right tools to fit the insert. You may need a ratchet for additional traction. If the stem sticks out too far, take a hacksaw and cut it of to allow the socket kit to access the nut holding the stem in.
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5
Pull the stem off to access the stem seat. Remove the old seat with a tapered faucet seat wrench.
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6
Place the new seat on the end of the wrench and carefully position it into the spot where the old seat used to be, and screw it in. Make sure it's tight. After the seat is in position, place the new stem into the seat. Turn the stem into the "on" position and then insert it over the seat. Tighten the nut with the socket.
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7
Replace the collar and the handle. Hand tighten the collar and handle and you're done.
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Tips & Warnings
Parts are not interchangeable among manufacturers.
When you buy a new stem for your leaky faucet, be sure to buy the exact same kind as the one you took out. Additionally, make sure the seat is included in the package with the stem.
