How to Adjust Bathroom Faucets

Bathroom faucets will need adjustments from time to time to stop them from dripping. This is most often caused by a bad spring and packing within the faucet handles. This part can be purchased at most well-stocked hardware stores and plumbing supply houses. The do-it-yourself homeowner can have the bathroom faucet repaired within a couple of hours.

Things You'll Need

• Flathead screwdriver
• Phillips-head screwdriver
• Adjustable wrench
• Needle-nose pliers

Instructions

1. Turn the water off to the faucet by turning the shut-off valves under the sink. If there are not shut-off valves, turn the water off at the main valve to the home.

2. Insert the drain plug into the sink. This way, if small parts get dropped they will not go down the drain.

3. Remove the cover plate from the handle by inserting a flathead screwdriver into the slot and popping the plate off. Remove the screw that holds the handle on the stem using a phillips-head screwdriver. Remove the handle from the stem.

4. Remove the nut that secures the stem in place using an adjustable wrench. Make note of where the raised ledge is on the stem. Pull the faucet stem out with your hands.

5. Remove the old packing and spring from inside the faucet stem cavity with a pair of needle-nose pliers. Install the new spring with the smaller coil on top followed by the new packing.

6. Insert the stem back into the faucet cavity and tighten it down with the attaching nut.

7. Place the handle on the stem and attach it with the set screw. Replace the decorative cap. Turn the water supply back on to the faucet.

References

• Fix a Bathroom Faucet
• Fix a Leaky Faucet
• Repair Faucet