How To Fix a Leaky Cartridge Faucet:

● Pry off the decorative cap on the handle, remove the handle screw, tilt the handle back, and pull it off.
● If there’s a threaded retaining clip holding the cartridge in place, use needle-nose pliers to remove it, then pull the cartridge straight up.
● Remove the spout and cut off the old O-rings using a utility knife. Coat the new O-rings with nontoxic, heat-proof plumber’s grease.
● To replace the entire cartridge, match the length of the old cartridge with the length of the replacement. Also match the stem end where the handle attaches.

How To Fix a Leaky Compression Faucet:

● Most leaky compression faucets need new seat washers. Use a small slotted screwdriver or utility knife to pry off the decorative cap on the handle, exposing the attachment screws.
● Use a screwdriver to remove the handle screw, then pull off the handle.
● Use a crescent wrench to unscrew the packing nut and an adjustable wrench to loosen the stem from the faucet body.
● Unscrew the rubber washer from the bottom end of the stem to remove and replace the seat washer.
● Coat the washers with nontoxic, heat-proof plumber’s grease.
● Pop the stem out of the packing nut and replace the O-ring, the culprit for leaky handles. O-rings range in size from 3/8 to 5/8 inch, so it’s crucial to match the exact size of your faucet. Coat the new O-ring with plumber’s grease.
● The washer sits in a round, recessed disk called a retainer. If the original retainer is damaged, grind it flush and install a replacement retainer ring. If your faucet continues to leak, the seat may be pitted.
● Remove the stem and sand the top end of the seat with emery cloth to smooth it out.
● If you can’t repair the original seat, replace it with a new one.

How To Fix a Leaky Ceramic Disk Faucet:

● Push the handle back to access the set screw. Remove the screw and lift off the handle.
● Remove the escutcheon cap, unscrew the disk cylinder mounting screws, and lift out the cylinder.
● With a blunt screwdriver, lift out the neoprene seals from the cylinder. If the seals are damaged, replace them.
● Use distilled white vinegar and a soft scouring pad to clean the cylinder openings, then rinse them thoroughly.
● Replace the seals and reassemble the faucet.
● Move the handle to the “on” position and turn the water back on slowly—the force of the returning water can fracture the ceramic disk.
● If you’re replacing the entire cylinder (usually not necessary), set it in place and secure it with the new mounting screws.

How to Fix a Leaky Faucet Ball-Type

● This type of faucet contains a lot of parts, which often makes it difficult to find the cause of the leak. You can avoid the aggravation by buying a replacement kit and putting in all new parts.
● Use a pocket knife to pry off the small index cover from the side of the faucet and reveal the hex-head screw.
● Loosen the screw with a hex-key wrench and pull off the faucet handle.
● Use adjustable pliers to remove the cap and collar.
● Using the special tool included in the faucet-repair kit, loosen the faucet cam and lift it out, along with the cam washer and the rotating ball.
● Reach into the faucet body with needle-nose pliers and remove the rubber seats and springs.
● Slip a new spring and rubber seat onto the tip of a pencil and lower it down into the faucet.
● Repeat to install the second seat and spring.
● Reinstall the stainless-steel ball, making sure to align its keyway with the corresponding tab inside the faucet body.
● On top of the stainless-steel ball, install a new rubber gasket and cam cap.
● Align the keyway on the cap with the corresponding slot.
● Hand-tighten the top cap assembly back onto the faucet.
● Use a spanner wrench to tighten the nut to provide the proper tension against the stainless-steel ball.