Instructions on How to Fix a Washer in a Kitchen Faucet
Kitchen faucets come in two types--with one handle, or separate handles for hot and cold water. Two-handled faucets contain washers in the bottom of each handle. When the handle is turned off, it presses down on the washers and stops the water flow through the faucet. Over time these washers, which are made of rubber, deteriorate, resulting in leaks. Fortunately, fixing washers isn't difficult. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Towel
- Knife
- Screwdriver
- Wrench
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Instructions
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Turn the silver water shutoff valves under the sink clockwise until they will no longer turn. This shuts off the water flow while you're working.
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Turn on both faucet handles to allow any water inside the pipe to drain out. When all of the water is removed, lay a towel over the bottom of the sink to prevent small items from falling into the drain.
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Remove both faucet handles, using a screwdriver to loosen the screws that hold them in place. The screws on each handle are underneath the handle for lift-up handles, or in the top center for twist handles. The screw may be covered by a plastic cap that usually has an "H" or "C" on it. To expose the screws, insert a knife blade into the edge of the cap and pry it up.
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Place a wrench on the exposed retaining nut of each handle and turn them counterclockwise to remove them.
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Remove each faucet assembly from the sink by either pulling straight up or turning them counterclockwise, depending on the model.
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Turn one faucet assembly over and locate the black circular washer attached to the bottom. Remove the washer.
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Insert a new washer onto the bottom of each faucet and insert the faucets back into the holes in the sink. Place the retaining nuts on top of them and tighten the nuts clockwise, using a wrench.
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Place the handles back onto the faucet and reinsert the screws with a screwdriver to secure them. If the handles have a plastic cap that covers the screws, press the caps back into position with your fingers.
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Remove the towel from the sink and turn the water shutoff valves counterclockwise to restore water flow.
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Tips & Warnings
Although you only have to replace the leaking washer, it's best to replace them both at once.
References
- Photo Credit faucet image by Mat Hayward from Fotolia.com
