How to Remove Brass Compression Fittings

A compression fitting is a type of faucet valve whereby a threaded brass spindle moves a disc-shaped stem washer up and down to either permit water to flow through the valve seat or to stop the water's flow. Given enough time, virtually every faucet will develop drips and leaks. Drips and leaks generated from a compression fitting are almost certain to result from a broken valve seat or stem washer. Thankfully, either component is simple to replace, but the existing compression fitting must first be removed.

Things You'll Need

• Phillips head screwdriver
• Handle puller
• Adjustable pliers

Instructions

1. Turn off the structure's main water supply by turning the shutoff valve in a clockwise direction.

2. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the faucet handle's single retaining screw, located in the center of the handle.

3. Lift the handle off the valve. Stubborn handles necessitate the use of a handle puller, available at most hardware stores. Connect both jaws of the puller underneath the handle, then turn the threaded rod that runs through the center of the puller in a clockwise direction until the handle is free.

4. Remove the compression fitting by grasping the retaining nut--located at the top of the fitting--with a pair of adjustable pliers and turning the fitting in a counterclockwise direction until the fitting can be pulled free from the valve seat.

References

• Basic Plumbing With Illustrations, Howard C. Massey, 1994