How To Remove Valve Stem From Bathroom Faucet

Bathroom faucets are one of the most frequently used fixtures in the home, and over time they can start to leak or malfunction. If you're experiencing problems with your bathroom faucet, one of the first things you should check is the valve stem. The valve stem is a small, cylindrical part that controls the flow of water through the faucet. If the valve stem is worn or damaged, it can cause the faucet to leak or drip.

Replacing a valve stem is a relatively simple repair that can be done in just a few minutes. Here are the steps on how to remove a valve stem from a bathroom faucet:

Materials needed:

Adjustable wrench
Allen wrench or hex key
Phillips head screwdriver
New valve stem

Step 1: Turn off the water supply

Before you begin, you'll need to turn off the water supply to the faucet. This is usually done by turning off the shut-off valves under the sink. Once the water supply is turned off, open the faucet to release any remaining water.

Step 2: Remove the handle

The next step is to remove the handle from the faucet. This is usually done by unscrewing the set screw that is located on the side of the handle. Once the set screw is removed, you can pull the handle straight off the faucet.

Step 3: Remove the packing nut

The packing nut is a large, round nut that is located behind the handle. It is used to keep the valve stem in place and prevent leaks. To remove the packing nut, use an adjustable wrench to loosen it. Once the packing nut is loose, you can remove it by hand.

Step 4: Remove the valve stem

The valve stem is now exposed. To remove it, use an Allen wrench or hex key to loosen the screw that is located on the top of the valve stem. Once the screw is loose, you can pull the valve stem straight out of the faucet.

Step 5: Install the new valve stem

Take the new valve stem and insert it into the faucet. Tighten the screw on the top of the valve stem using an Allen wrench or hex key. Once the screw is tight, replace the packing nut and tighten it using an adjustable wrench.

Step 6: Reinstall the handle

The last step is to reinstall the handle. To do this, simply slide the handle back onto the faucet and tighten the set screw. Once the set screw is tight, turn on the water supply and check for leaks.

Replacing a valve stem is a simple repair that can be done in just a few minutes. By following these steps, you can easily fix a leaky or malfunctioning bathroom faucet.