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how to repair a leaky faucet single handle

by Mrs. Carley Haag IV Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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How To Fix A Leaky Bathtub Faucet With One Handle

  • You’ll Need To Turn Off The Main Water Supply, Remove The Handle, Remove The Knurled Ring Holding The Valve Cartridge In.
  • Replace The Necessary Pieces, Clean The Area, And Put It Back Together!. You don't need a plumber to fix the problem.
  • Grease The New Seat Washer And The Threads Of The Original Screw And Then Put Them...

Part of a video titled How to Fix A Dripping or Leaky Single Handle Faucet - YouTube
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For cartridge faucets remove the cap and take out the screw and clip. Then take off the handle. AndMoreFor cartridge faucets remove the cap and take out the screw and clip. Then take off the handle. And trim ring unscrew the retainer and pull out the cartridge. Insert a new cartridge.

Full Answer

How do you repair a single handle faucet?

What You’ll Need

  • Screwdriver
  • Adjustable wrench or slip-joint pliers
  • Allen wrench (optional)
  • Towel

How to repair a leaky kitchen faucet?

PUT IT BACK:

  1. Replace the 2 O-rings on the copper base of your faucet and lube them up.
  2. Slide your spout back over the copper base
  3. Insert your new cartridge and turn it with the white tool to line it up properly (see video)
  4. When lined up, it will allow you to slide in the metal clip that holds in cartridge - don't forget to also put back on the small metal washer

More items...

How do you fix a leaking kitchen faucet?

Things You'll Need

  • A Phillips-head (+) and flat-head screwdriver (-); even if your faucet uses Phillips-head screws, a flat-head screwdriver can be useful for prying
  • Plumber’s grease (heat-resistant and non-toxic so it can be used with hot, potable water)
  • Pliers
  • Wrench

How to fix a leaky dripping Delta Faucet?

What You’ll Need to Repair the Faucet:

  • 1/8-inch Allen wrench
  • Needle-nose pliers
  • Tongue-and-groove pliers
  • Screwdriver
  • Replacement parts (If you have a lever-handle style product, you need RP61; if you have a knob handle you need RP188.)

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Why do single handle faucets drip?

The most common sources of a leaking faucet – a worn out washer or gasket, a loose O ring, corrosion in the valve seat – can be detected and fixed easily with most faucet repair kits.

How do you fix a single handle faucet cartridge?

0:372:26Repairing a Leaky Single Handle Cartridge-Type Faucet - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipUse a wrench to remove the retainer. Next pull the cartridge from your father. Now that you removeMoreUse a wrench to remove the retainer. Next pull the cartridge from your father. Now that you remove the cartridge you need to take it to your local retailer.

Why does my faucet drip after I turn it off?

If you notice your bathroom sink drips or leaks out of the faucet head when turned off, there is likely an issue with the seal inside the faucet head, allowing the water to run through or drip. Before calling a professional plumber, consider whether you're able to repair the leak in your bathroom sink yourself.

How do you fix a leaky Moen single handle kitchen faucet?

0:265:29How to Repair a Leaking Moen Kitchen Faucet - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFor this cartridge they based the replacement parts off in description and Moen has a lifetime freeMoreFor this cartridge they based the replacement parts off in description and Moen has a lifetime free replacement for their faucets. So if a supplier is going to charge you for a new cartridge.

Where is the cartridge on a single handle faucet?

0:402:56How to Repair a Leaky Single Handle Cartridge Faucet - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThere are two different ways the cartridge may be removed from your faucet depending on whether itMoreThere are two different ways the cartridge may be removed from your faucet depending on whether it is secured with a retainer clip or retainer. Nut. Use a wrench to remove the retainer.

How do I know what cartridge my faucet is?

0:173:20Quick Ways to Identify the Brand and Manufacturer for Faucet RepairYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnother quick tip is to look underneath the sink because sometimes you might be able to find a labelMoreAnother quick tip is to look underneath the sink because sometimes you might be able to find a label that's attached to a supply line that will tell you the manufacturer.

How do I stop a dripping faucet?

1:382:54How To Fix A Dripping or Leaky Double Handle Faucet - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFirst take off the handle. Then unscrew the valve stem on the stem remove the old gasket screw. AndMoreFirst take off the handle. Then unscrew the valve stem on the stem remove the old gasket screw. And seat washer. Apply some plumbers grease.

How do you stop a dripping faucet temporarily?

A temporary fix can easily be accomplished by tying a string around the faucet, making sure the string goes around the aerator or over the faucet spout. Then, let the end of the string hang down to the sink. The string will collect the dripping water and funnel it quietly down the drain.

How do you stop a tap dripping water?

Turn both valves to the right (clockwise) as far as possible to stop water from traveling through the faucet. If you see straight handles instead of knobs, turn the handles perpendicular to the pipe to turn off the water. If your faucet has separate hot and cold taps, turn off the cold water supply valve first.

How do you take apart a Moen single handle kitchen faucet?

Some Moen faucets have handles that remove by loosening the screw in the back of the handle. To loosen this screw use a 3/32" hex wrench. After the handle has been removed unscrew the spout collar nut by turning counterclockwise then lift and rotate the spout.

How do I change the cartridge on a Moen single handle kitchen faucet?

1:143:19Moen Single Handle Cartridge Replacement - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe nut that holds cartridge in place a hex wrench and the hex screw to remove the cartridges takeMoreThe nut that holds cartridge in place a hex wrench and the hex screw to remove the cartridges take your wrench. And this in the the nut and then the cartridge will come. Out.

How do you fix a leaking Moen bathroom faucet single handle?

2:423:54Repair and Replace (Single Handle | Moen | Bathroom Faucet) - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipStarting with the tab reinstall the handle adapter. Now tighten with a Philips screwdriver. NextMoreStarting with the tab reinstall the handle adapter. Now tighten with a Philips screwdriver. Next screw the handle back on and replace the screw. Cover.

How do I know if my faucet cartridge is bad?

Signs that a cartridge faucet needs repair are water dripping from the spout, difficulty in adjusting the water temperature, hot water entering cold water outlets like toilet supply lines and inadequately heated water at some faucets.

Can a faucet cartridge be repaired?

Worn cartridges or rubber O rings often lead to leaks. By swapping in replacement parts, your faucet won't leak at the base or around the handles anymore. Replacing a faucet cartridge is a plumbing fix you can do in less than an hour. All you need is a few simple tools.

How do you change a single handle bathroom faucet cartridge?

2:133:54Repair and Replace (Single Handle | Moen | Bathroom Faucet) - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipUse a wrench to twist back and forth to loosen the cartridge. Now use the pliers to pull theMoreUse a wrench to twist back and forth to loosen the cartridge. Now use the pliers to pull the cartridge straight out of the valve.

How do I stop a dripping faucet?

1:382:54How To Fix A Dripping or Leaky Double Handle Faucet - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFirst take off the handle. Then unscrew the valve stem on the stem remove the old gasket screw. AndMoreFirst take off the handle. Then unscrew the valve stem on the stem remove the old gasket screw. And seat washer. Apply some plumbers grease.

Techniques for solving a tough faucet problem

Repair a drippy ball-type faucet using these pro tricks to deal with stubborn screws. You may have to replace the handle, but not the entire faucet.

Kitchen Faucet Repair: Loosen a stuck screw on a single-handle faucet

If the Allen screw is stuck, or if you strip it so it won’t come out, remove the cap with the handle still in place. You can’t grab the flattened edges with the handle in place. Instead, for this kitchen faucet repair, cushion the jaws of pliers and grip the round edge below.

How to Remove Faucet Handle

If you can’t loosen the Allen screw on the handle of a ball-type faucet, don’t let that 15¢ screw force you into a $100 faucet replacement… just yet! Normally you have to remove the handle to get the worn rubber seats that cause the drip (Figure A). First try spraying the screw with penetrating oil every day for a week.

Required Tools for this kitchen faucet repair Project

Have the necessary tools for this DIY kitchen faucet repair project lined up before you start—you’ll save time and frustration.

Required Materials for this kitchen faucet repair Project

Avoid last-minute shopping trips by having all your materials ready ahead of time. Here’s a list.

What does it mean when a faucet leaks under the handle?

If you notice a leak under the handle of your faucet, you may have a faulty seat washer. Purchase a leak repair kit for your particular type or brand of faucet, follow the instructions, and use the included parts to take care of this type of leak.

How to stop water from gushing out of faucet?

This will stop water from gushing out of your faucet when you unscrew it later. Press the off switch on your water main box to turn off the water. Alternatively, look under your sink for a small valve.

How to tighten a headgear nut?

1. Screw the headgear nut back on using a spanner. Locate the headgear nut and place it back to its original spot. Make sure the handle is in its original placement before you tighten the screw. Turn the spanner towards the right to tighten the screw.

What is the O ring on a faucet?

The “O” ring is a piece of rubber that sits under the headgear nut. A damaged “O” ring is the cause of a leaky faucet handle. Stretch the ring off the spout and pull it out of the faucet. Keep the “O” ring in case you need it to identify what size replacement ring you will need. [7]

Why does my faucet make a dripping noise?

The annoying drip of a leaky faucet handle can cause higher water bills and make an irritating dripping noise. Luckily, it's quite an easy problem to fix yourself. A leaking handle is normally caused by a damaged “O” ring inside the faucet.

How to find the brand of a faucet?

Once you know, visit the manufacturer’s website or look up their customer service phone number. Some brands guarantee their faucets for life and will supply replacement cartridges free of charge if you contact them directly. Otherwise, you can just buy one from them.

How to get air bubbles out of water pipes?

Turn on the water mains and gently turn on the faucet. It is important to turn the tap on gently at first to release any air bubbles. After the air bubbles are out of the pipes the tap can be used as per usual. [15]

What is a single handle faucet?

In a single-handle faucet, the handle causes the internal cartridge to rise or lower within the faucet body to start and stop the flow of water. Both hot and cold water flow into the same cartridge, and a turn of the handle controls the mixture and temperature. Two-handle cartridge faucets operate in a similar fashion, ...

How to shut off water valves?

In most cases, you will turn the handle clockwise to tighten it and shut it off. Make sure the valves are turned snugly tight. Other types of valves may have a lever handle that is closed by turning them perpendicular to the water line.

What is a cartridge faucet?

The cartridge faucet is a special type of washerless fixture commonly used in kitchens and bathrooms, and it's designed so that the cartridge insert is easy to replace when the faucet begins to drip and leak. Cartridge faucets come in both single-lever and two-handle versions, and various models use different types of plastic or brass-body ...

How to remove a clip from a sleeve?

Insert a flat-blade screwdriver behind the clip and gently pry it away from its retention slot. You can also try this with needle-nose pliers.​ Carefully remove the clip, then set it aside with other parts in the order it was removed.

How to remove a retainer nut?

If you see the retainer nut once the handle is removed, use channel-type pliers or an adjustable wrench to turn the retaining nut counter- clockwise and remove it. Set the nut aside.

What happens if you don't see a retaining nut?

​If you do not readily see a retaining nut once the handle is removed, you have a newer, more complicated cartridge faucet. Set all following parts aside in the order they were removed.

How to avoid mistakes in a cartridge?

There are many dozens of replacement cartridges sold, so make sure you are buying the correct one. Taking the old cartridge with you to the store for comparison is often the best way to avoid mistakes.

What to do if your faucet is leaking?

The first thing to do when you realize that you have a leaky faucet is investigate the source of the leak. If the water is dripping from the spout, that's a pretty clear sign that the internal valve isn't shutting off the water completely, and the faucet cartridge needs to be replaced.

How long does it take to fix a leaky bathroom faucet?

With the right tools and parts, a faucet repair can be completed in just a few minutes by most homeowners, even those with little or no plumbing experience. By doing the work yourself, you will save money on the cost of a plumber and stop that annoying drip in less than an hour.

Why is my faucet running down the base?

This can be caused by a loose or faulty aerator or even by a small pinhole in the spout. If all looks good and the problem is not a leaky faucet spout, then the problem could be a loose retaining nut under the dome cap. Remove the faucet handle and the dome cap and check to make sure the nut is tight.

Why is my faucet dripping?

Remove the faucet handle and the dome cap and check to make sure the nut is tight. This type of leak could also be caused by a faulty cartridge, which is also the cause of a dripping faucet.

Why is there water under my faucet?

The solution is the same for either problem: replace the cartridge. If there is water coming from under the single-handle faucet beneath the sink or counter, it could be caused by a variety of problems, including a leaky or faulty supply line or supply line nut . It can also be that the rubber or plastic gasket under the faucet is cracked or faulty, ...

How to remove a cartridge from a faucet?

The cartridges in some faucets may be held in place with a clip. (Moen is one brand that uses them.) You can remove the clip by pulling with a pair of tongue-and- groove or needle-nose pliers. Once the clip is removed or if your faucet doesn't have a clip, lift the cartridge straight up from the faucet to remove it. If it is difficult to remove, you can pull it with a pair of pliers or with a specialty tool called a cartridge puller.

How to remove a retaining nut from a faucet?

Some faucets have a decorative collar or cap over the retaining nut. If your faucet has a collar, turn it counterclockwise by hand to remove it. You can use an adjustable wrench or tongue-and-groove pliers to remove the collar if it is tight.

How to fix a leaky faucet handle?

The cam is the plastic piece with a heart-shaped or rectangular hole inside your faucet. Use a pair of pliers to pull it out. If water leaks out of the handle when you’re using your faucet, then the cam could be faulty. Buy a replacement cam that’s exactly the same as the old one, or else it won’t work properly.

What happens if you have a leaky faucet seal?

When you have a damaged seal, water could leak through it and cause your leak in the base or spout of your faucet.

How to check if a faucet is leaking?

Turn on the water and test your faucet for leaks. Turn the water valves underneath your sink counter-clockwise as far as you can. Turn on your faucet and let the water run while you check for leaks. Then, shut the water off to see if it still drips from the spout. If there’s still a leak, you may need to call a plumber to find out what’s wrong.

What to do if you still see a leak?

If you still see a leak, then contact a plumber to find the source.

What to do if your faucet cartridge is stuck?

If the cartridge is stuck inside your faucet, you may need a special removal tool to get a better grip. You can buy one from your local hardware store.

What controls the flow of hot and cold water through a faucet?

The springs and seals control the flow of hot and cold water through your faucet.

What to do if you don't have a stopper on your sink?

If you don’t have a stopper, you can instead put a rag or towel on the bottom of your sink. This also helps protect your sink’s finish in case you drop parts or tools.

How to Fix a Dripping or Leaky Double-Handle Faucet

Learn how to repair three types of double-handle faucets: ceramic disc, compression/reverse-compression and cartridge.

Repairing Different Types of Faucets

Keep in mind that some cartridge bodies and ceramic disc bodies/cylinders can look similar. In most cases, the cartridge body doesn't have moving parts. The ceramic disc body/cylinder does have moving parts that pivot to open the ports on the bottom.

Locate the Leak

Determine which side of your faucet is leaking by shutting off the water supply valves one at a time. If the leak doesn’t stop after the first valve is turned off, it’s the other line that’s leaking.

Ceramic Disc Faucets

This type of faucet uses a cylinder with tiny discs on the bottom that control water flow. The most successful repair typically replaces the entire cylinder.

Compression & Reverse-Compression Faucets

In this repair, you’ll replace the washer and O-ring or gasket on the valve stem, as well as the valve seat in the faucet.

Aerator

After reassembling your faucet, run the water for a few minutes to clear debris from the new parts. Replace the aerator.

How to Fix a Dripping or Leaky Single-Handle Faucet

Learn to repair three types of single-handle faucets: ball, cartridge and ceramic disc.

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