Repairing Compression and Ceramic-Disk Faucet

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Repairing A Ceramic-Disk Faucet

Again turn off the water to the faucet before starting a repair, open the spout drain and close the drain. Most leaks in a ceramic faucet can be repaired by cleaning the bottom of the disk cylinder and replacing three flexible washers called inlet seals. Replace the disk cylinder if the faucet continues to leak after these repairs.

1. Pry off the decorative cap at the base of the lever to begin. Use a pocket knife or screwdriver to gently lift it all around its base. Take care not to scrape the finish as you work.
2. Remove the screw that holds the handle in place with a screwdriver. Once the screw is removed, pull straight up on the handle.
3. Twisting counterclockwise to loosen it, remove the cowling from the faucet. If the cowling is stubborn then use taped pliers to get the turn started.
4. Remove the nylon retaining ring with tongue-and-groove pliers, turning it counterclockwise.Note the position of the switch-like tab that protrudes from the cartridge.
5. Gently pull the cartridge up and out. Take this piece to the store to buy replacement washers. If the bottom of the cartridge is encrusted with mineral deposits then scrub it clean with a synthetic scouring pad.
6. Replace the cartridge, aligning it with the tab in its original position. If the position is not correct then the lever will go on backwards. Reverse the steps to reassemble.

Repairing A Compression Faucet

Turn off the water to the faucet to begin a repair. Next open the spout to drain and then close the drain. Remove the handles. This is usually done by prying off a cap to get to a screw or fastener. Use a screwdriver or pocket knife to pry off the cap. Some compression faucets have a diaphragm rather than a seat washer but it is replaced the same way as the washer.

1. With the cap off, use a screwdriver – typically a Phillips-head to remove the screw that holds the handle to the stem’s top. Lift off the handle.
2. Remove the locknut with an adjustable wrench by turning it counterclockwise. Pull up stem assembly by hand, you may need to turn it counterclockwise.
3. Remove worn seat washer by unscrewing the screw that holds it then install new washer. Reassemble the stem, put it back into the valve seat and tighten locknut. Replace the handle.

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