These faucets use a ball joint to control the hot and cold waterlines. They are characterized by a single handle on a rounded cap mounted on top of the spout. To work them, you push up and down to adjust the pressure, then left or right to adjust the temperature. They’re common in kitchens and other high-use areas.
Although they are the oldest type of faucet, compression washer faucets are still commonly used today. They use rubber washers to tightly seal against the flow of water. They have two handles that do not move up or down, only side to side. The most identifiable trait of compression washer faucets is that you can feel the handle of the faucet getting tighter as you shut it off.
Reassemble the faucet — avoid overtightening — and turn the handle on. Follow these instructions for repairing a ball faucet. This article was updated in conjunction with AI technology, then fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.
Disc faucets are newer faucets, and typically a bit more expensive than other standard options. Disc faucets have only a single lever to operate them. This soft rubber or silicone washer will slowly wear down. No matter how hard you tighten the faucet, the water never quite shuts off all the way. Unscrew the retainer nut and pull out the cylinder. Gently pull out the cartridge and replace it with a new one.
You’ll install the replacement the same way that you removed the original. Faucets either have sink cartridges or compression valves that open and close to control the flow of water. Most faucet leaks are the result of worn cartridges or worn stem assembly washers. If you aren’t sure how to do this, we recommend locating your water meter first, as you’ll typically find your water shut-off valve nearby. The location of the shut-off valve and meter vary, with indoor water meters more common for colder regions and outdoor water meters used frequently in warmer climates. If you believe your water meter is located indoors, try searching your basement, garage or crawl space.
Too much initial pressure can damage the new hardware. While you have the faucet disassembled, it's a good idea to replace the seats and springs below the cartridge. They're inexpensive and adding new ones should ensure your repair is complete. Determine which side of your faucet is leaking by shutting off the water supply valves one at a time. If the faucet leak doesn’t stop after the first valve is turned off, it’s the other line that’s leaking.
Before you do this, make sure your water supply is turned off. Repair it by replacing some faulty components instead of getting a whole new fixture. Look to Lowe’s to have all the faucet parts you need to return yours to top working condition.
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An inexpensive faucet may not be worth repairing unless you only need to replace a few washers. Since sink cartridges are specific to the brand and model of faucet, you'll need to purchase the exact type of cartridge for your bathroom or kitchen faucet. To repair leaks at the base, remove the spout and replace the O-rings.
If it’s stuck, soak a towel in vinegar and wrap it around the faucet aerator to loosen mineral deposits. After an hour, gently twist the aerator with a towel and pliers. Turn faucet handles on to release any residual water. Close the drain and place a towel in the sink to protect the surface and catch dropped parts. Prices, Promotions, styles, and availability may vary.
How to Fix a Leaky Outdoor Faucet
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