Dripping Faucet? Do This First!
36sQuick diagnostic tip and a clever hack for stuck aerators saves time and money.
▶ Play Clip
[00:01] Got a dripping faucet?
[00:02] We’ll show you how to fix three types of
[00:07] ceramic disc.
[00:08] First, determine the source of the leak.
[00:11] A leaky spout means damaged parts inside the
[00:14] A leak at the base means damaged seals around
[00:18] Turn off the shut off valves.
[00:20] If they’re stuck, turn off the main water
[00:23] Turn on the faucet to release any residual
[00:26] Close the drain and place a towel in the sink
[00:30] Also remove the aerator.
[00:31] If it’s stuck, soak a towel in white vinegar
[00:37] hour.
[00:39] After an hour, gently remove the aerator with
[00:45] As you’re taking apart the faucet, lay the
[00:50] with reassembly.
[00:51] Put the parts in a plastic bag to take to
[00:54] You can replace one specific part, but it’s
[00:59] the parts.
[01:00] Also buy a new aerator if yours is damaged.
[01:03] Keep in mind these directions are typical
[01:07] for your faucet.
[01:09] On ball valve faucets, loosen the set screw
[01:13] Then take off the cap.
[01:15] To repair a leaky spout, remove the cam, washer
[01:19] Note how the holes in the ball line up with
[01:23] Use a small screwdriver to remove the seats
[01:27] To repair leaks at the base, slide off the
[01:34] Add a little plumber’s grease and replace
[01:37] Put new seats on new springs and put them
[01:41] Replace the ball -- making sure the holes
[01:44] Then replace the washer and cam, and reassemble
[01:49] For cartridge faucets, remove the cap and
[01:54] Then take off the handle and trim ring.
[01:57] Unscrew the retainer and pull out the cartridge.
[02:02] Insert a new cartridge.
[02:03] Then reassemble the faucet.
[02:08] To repair a ceramic disc faucet, remove the
[02:14] Unscrew the retainer nut, and pull out the
[02:19] Instead of repairing the discs on the bottom
[02:23] Put the faucet back together, and turn it
[02:27] For all faucets turn on the supply valves
[02:32] run for a few minutes to flush out any debris.
[02:36] Clean a dirty aerator by soaking it in white
[02:39] Rinse it and screw it back in.
[02:42] Now your faucet should be working like new.
[02:45] Want more great ideas and how tos?
[02:47] Go to Lowes.com/HowTo or click to subscribe.
[02:51] Rather have a new faucet?
[02:53] Check out our installation video.
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