While single-lever faucets look complicated, fixing them is easier than it looks.
As usual, proper preparation is the key. This process should only take you about an hour. You don’t need to be a plumber to do this one. You will save on plumbing costs and you will save a whole lot more on the cost of leaking water — a huge hidden cost.
Dealing with the hardest part first.
Most modern faucets are pretty easy to fix. Finding the right replacement parts is often the most difficult issue you will confront.
Locate the brand name of the faucet before you start pulling it apart. You can talk to your local plumbing supplier or search online for replacement parts. There is nothing worse than pulling apart a leaking faucet only to find out later you can’t get the parts you are looking for. It is often possible to locate a diagram of components from each supplier online — a very good way to know what parts you will need to replace.
In most cases, it is a simple matter of replacing gaskets. Even if you cannot find them, you can make them out of similar material.
Best tools for the job.
Allen wrenches are the best tools when working with any type of faucet. With a small set of Allen wrenches you will be prepared for just about any job.
Getting on with the job.
Pulling apart the leaking faucet.
Obviously, we want to stop water supply to the faucet. Next, we want to make sure we know how to put the faucet back together again. A great way to do this is to use your mobile phone to capture a short video on the components as you disassemble the faucet — make sure you pay attention to the order of the parts as you pull the faucet apart.
Place the parts down in the order they are to be reassembled.
Inspecting the faucet.
Once you have all the parts laid down, look for the following:
Checking for worn parts.
It is often easier to take your faucet directly to the store to find all the replacement parts you need. You will also be able to compare worn parts with new.
Main types of single-lever faucets:
Rotary Ball Faucets
These are the most common and most parts are available in most hardware stores. Many hardware stores stock repair kits that contain the ball, springs, seats and O-rings.
Cartridge Style Faucets
Cartridge style faucets are also very common. In most cases, repair only requires the replacement of the cartridge and the O-rings. Most home centre or hardware stores have replacement parts. Note: Don’t be surprised if it takes a considerable amount of effort to remove the cartridge because they become stuck over time.
Ceramic Disk Style Faucets
Ceramic disk faucets are really only another version of cartridge style faucets. Disks are used inside the faucet to control water flow (and this type of faucet requires less maintenance). Make sure you leave the faucet open as you turn back on the water flow.
You can talk with Lloyd if you are looking for more information. There's no obligation and he is more than happy to give his advice.
Need more information and have questions? Contact C4U Inspections today
Lloyd doesn't break the rules for anyone and as a leading chief home inspector in BC, that means he follows industry requirements, government regulations and licensing codes of conduct to the letter. Unbiased, ethical and professional home inspection and building consultation services.
Serving the Okanagan Since 2005
