Compression faucets are the type that uses two handles. Using one handle provides you with the warm water and using the other one will avail you cold water. It basically consists of a stem that has a washer that when shuts off the flow of water.

The working mechanism of compression type faucets is just very simple. But these posses rubber o- rings that tend to wear and tear with time. Washers in the hot water tap tend to wear out before those in the cold water tap.

One can easily repair the leaks in the faucet. The write up provides you the steps to carry out project more effectively. Shut off the water to the faucet. Take apart your sink. You will need a screwdriver and pliers for this task. Take off the decorative covers on both faucets.

Loosen the lock-nut inside with a crescent wrench. Once the nut is loosened and removed, pull out the stem. With some types of faucets, the stem itself may be threaded into the body of the faucet assembly. You’ll have to turn it counter-clockwise to loosen and remove it.

At the end of the stem you’ll find the old washer on the end sitting in a valve seat. It will be held in place with a screw and it will look pretty well beaten up and crushed.

Remove the old washer by removing the brass screw and by taking a screwdriver into the screw hole in the washer, just pop the old washer out. Replace with the correctly sized washer. Taking the old one to the hardware store is the best way to fit a new washer.

Having replaced the washer if could not stop the leaks, well in that case unscrew the valve stem assembly from the housing. You can use an adjustable wrench, pipe wrench or channel-lock pliers. There are chances that it is faulty.

Reassemble the faucet by replacing the valve stem and body, cover, handle and cap. Make sure to tighten the valve body into its seat securely. Restore the water supply and check for leaks. If you are unable to set it right, take professional’s aid.

Scott Rodgers is an author with ample plumbing experience all over the country. His splendid guidance has created business opportunities for a lot of West Hills Plumbers and Cardiff by the Sea Plumbers .