Alexei Volkov
A washer faucet provides cold and hot water for your washing machine. When a faucet starts leaking, it is usually because the washer is old and worn out, and no longer creates a watertight seal. Replacing a washer faucet is a simple task that can be done at home, and it only takes a few minutes. This guide will walk you through the process step by step, covering everything from locating the shut-off valve to removing the faucet handle and installing a new washer.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Reasons to replace washer | Leaking faucets, difficulty turning the faucet off, discolouration in the sink, pipe or tap |
| Tools required | Wrenches, screwdrivers, duct tape, WD-40, spanner, Allen wrench |
| Steps to replace | 1. Turn off the shutoff valve that supplies water to the faucet. 2. Loosen the screw holding the faucet handle. 3. Remove the washer and replace with a new one of the same size. 4. Screw the valve back into place. 5. Reassemble the faucet handle. |
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What You'll Learn
Identify the source of the leak
Before attempting to fix a leaking faucet, it's essential to identify the root cause to choose the right solution. The first step is figuring out where the leak is coming from.
If the faucet is dripping from the spout, even when the handle is turned off, it is clear that your faucet is leaking. However, not all faucet leaks are that obvious, and they can occur in places other than the spout itself. If your household water usage is higher than normal, look for less obvious leaks that may be wasting water.
There are three common locations for faucet leaks. The faucet will start dripping or running even when the handles are shut off. You may notice that the faucet handle has to be turned a little tighter each time you turn the faucet off. After the faucet is used, you may find it necessary to adjust the handle to tighten it or position it just right so it doesn't drip. These are the most common faucet leaks, and a small drip will get worse over time and eventually add up on your water bill.
If you suspect a spout leak, you can use a paper towel or small container to test it out. Dry the sink after using the faucet, then place a dry paper towel under the spout over the drain opening and check back later to see if it is wet. A cup or bowl properly positioned under the faucet spout can also work.
The water supply lines have three connections you should check: where the supply pipes connect to the shut-off valves; where the valves connect to the flexible supply tubes; and where those supply tubes connect to the tailpieces on the faucet itself. Any of these locations could be the place where water is leaking. It's a matter of close inspection to identify the spot where the leak is occurring, then tightening the fittings to stop the leaking. In some instances, the shut-off valve or flexible supply tube may be worn out and need to be replaced. It's also possible, though less likely, that the faucet itself is worn out and needs to be replaced.
Not all leaking under a sink comes from the faucet. If it is the sink drain opening or the fittings on the drain P-trap that are leaking, this is also usually a matter of tightening the drain connections. On very old sinks, the drain strainer and tailpiece unit on the sink may be worn out. In this case, replacing the sink drain fitting will be required. More often, though, it will simply be a matter of tightening these fittings to stop the leak.
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Turn off the water supply
Before you start replacing the washer on your plastic faucet, you must turn off the water supply. This is an important first step to prevent water wastage and potential water damage.
First, locate the shut-off valve that controls the water supply to the faucet. This is usually located beneath the sink. If you cannot find a shut-off valve, you will need to turn off the water supply to your property. If you live in an apartment building, you may need permission to do this. If you are only replacing the hot water faucet, you can turn off the water supply to your hot water tank.
Once you have located the correct shut-off valve, turn it to the "off" position. If your faucet has a ceramic disc cartridge, you will need to take a different approach.
Now that the water supply is turned off, you can proceed to replace the washer on your plastic faucet.
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Remove the faucet handle
Before starting, make sure you have the necessary tools. You may need an Allen wrench or a specific type of screwdriver, such as a flat-head screwdriver. It is also recommended to have a small set of hex wrenches.
First, turn off the sink's water supply. You can typically find shutoff valves under the sink. It is a matter of twisting the valve clockwise to cut off the flow. Cover and close the drain to prevent losing any small parts down the plughole.
If your faucet handle is hard to turn, it could be due to limescale buildup. Try cleaning the exterior, base, and dome of the handle with a cloth or brush and a solution of water and vinegar. Let the vinegar soak for a few minutes, and then try to turn the handle. If this doesn't work, you may need to remove the handle and soak and clean it.
To remove the faucet handle, start by looking for a small cap or decorative cover at the handle's base or top. Use a small flat-head screwdriver to gently pry off the cap, being careful not to damage the handle. Once the cap is off, check for any screws and unscrew them. If there are no visible screws, locate any hidden clips with a flashlight and gently pry the handle off with your screwdriver. Alternatively, a faucet handle puller or a strap wrench can provide the leverage needed to remove the handle without causing damage. If the handle is threaded onto the stem, grip it firmly and twist it counterclockwise. Once loosened, pull the handle straight off the stem.
If there is a screw or fastener, loosen it with an Allen wrench or screwdriver, and then remove the handle. If the handle feels stuck, do not force it. Instead, wiggle it gently and apply more lubricant if needed. Once the handle is off, you can inspect the internal parts for any wear and tear.
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Replace the washer
Before you replace the washer, you must identify which faucet is leaking. Once you have located the leaky faucet, turn off the shut-off valve that supplies water to the faucet. The shut-off valve is usually located beneath the sink. If you can't find a shut-off valve, turn off the water supply to your property.
Now, you can begin to replace the washer. First, loosen the screw holding the faucet handle in place. This is found at the top of the handle, underneath a plastic cover. Some handles have a set screw, which can be removed with an Allen wrench. Once the screw is removed, the handle will come off easily.
Next, use a crescent wrench covered with a cloth or duct tape to prevent scratches to remove the packing nut, stem, O-ring, and seat washer. Place these parts on a flat surface in the order they were removed to make reassembly easier.
Beneath the stem and under the O-ring is the washer. Check the washer to see if it is worn, stretched, or disintegrating. If it is, it needs to be replaced. Note the size of the washer and replace it with an exact replica.
Once the new washer is in place, replace the faucet parts in the opposite order they were removed. Screw the valve back into place, being careful not to overtighten as this can damage the faucet.
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Reassemble the faucet
Before beginning to reassemble the faucet, ensure that you have the correct replacement washer. Check your new washer against the old one to make sure it is the right size. If the old washer is too degraded to use for size comparison, 'eye-ball' the size/space where it will sit and buy several washers in different sizes that might fit.
Now, you can begin to reassemble the faucet. Replace the faucet parts in the opposite fashion from which they were removed. Place the parts on a flat surface in the order they were removed to make this process easier. First, screw the valve back into place, being careful not to overtighten as this can damage the faucet. Then, fasten the top back onto the faucet.
Once the faucet is back together, close the taps if you left them open. Pick up any debris or screws from the sink and remove the drain plug. Finally, turn the water back on.
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Frequently asked questions
If your plastic faucet is leaking, dripping, or you're having difficulty turning it off, it may be time for a new washer. If you're unsure, you can always contact a plumber to inspect the washer and identify any underlying issues.
First, turn off the shutoff valve that supplies water to the faucet. If there is no shutoff valve, turn off the water supply to your property. Next, locate the screw holding the faucet handle in place and remove it with a screwdriver. Remove the handle, then use a wrench to take out the faucet. The washer is underneath the valve and is secured with a screw or nut. Remove the washer, replace it with a new one of the same size, and screw the valve back into place.
You will need a screwdriver, a spanner or wrench, and a new washer that is the same size as the old one.
