How To Replace A Washer In Bathroom Faucet

How to Replace a Washer in a Bathroom Faucet

A dripping bathroom faucet can be a source of annoyance and a waste of water. Often, the culprit behind a leaky faucet is a worn-out washer. This small, rubber component serves as a seal, preventing water from flowing when the faucet is turned off. Over time, the washer can become brittle, cracked, or deformed, leading to leaks. Replacing the washer is a relatively simple task that most homeowners can handle with a few basic tools and a bit of time.

1. Gather the Necessary Tools and Supplies

Before starting the repair, gather the following tools and supplies:

Adjustable wrench
Channel-lock pliers
Phillips screwdriver
Flat-head screwdriver
Replacement washer
Teflon tape (optional)
Bucket or basin
Rag or towel

You can find replacement washers at most hardware stores. When purchasing a new washer, bring the old one with you to ensure you get the correct size and type. It is also a good idea to have a spare set of washers on hand for future repairs.

2. Turn Off the Water Supply

The first step is to shut off the water supply to the faucet. Locate the shut-off valve for the bathroom sink, usually found underneath the sink or on the wall behind the sink. Turn the valve clockwise to completely close the water flow.

After turning off the valve, run the faucet to drain any remaining water in the pipes. This will help prevent water from spilling out when you loosen the faucet components.

3. Disassemble the Faucet

Once the water is turned off, you can begin disassembling the faucet. The specific steps may vary depending on the type of faucet, but the general process is as follows:

Remove the handle: Some handles are held in place by a set screw, which can be loosened with a Phillips screwdriver. Others may have a decorative cap that needs to be removed first. Once the handle is loose, pull it off the stem.
Loosen the packing nut: The packing nut is located behind the handle and holds the stem in place. Use an adjustable wrench or channel-lock pliers to loosen the packing nut. Be careful not to overtighten, as this could damage the threads.
Remove the stem: Once the packing nut is loosened, the stem should be able to be pulled out of the faucet body. The washer is located at the bottom of the stem.

4. Replace the Washer

With the stem removed, you can access the washer. Carefully remove the old washer and inspect it for wear and tear. If the washer is cracked, brittle, or deformed, it needs to be replaced.

To install the new washer, align the washer on the stem and press it down firmly into place. Ensure the new washer fits snugly and securely.

5. Reassemble the Faucet

After replacing the washer, reverse the disassembly process to reassemble the faucet. Replace the stem back into the faucet body, making sure to align the stem properly. Tighten the packing nut to secure the stem in place, but do not overtighten.

Reinstall the handle, making sure to tighten the set screw or replace the decorative cap. Once the faucet is reassembled, turn the water supply back on and check for any leaks. If there are any leaks, tighten the packing nut or re-install the washer.

Additional Tips

Here are some additional tips for successful washer replacement:

If the faucet continues to leak after replacing the washer, it is possible that the stem is worn out. You may need to replace the entire stem assembly.
Apply Teflon tape to the threads of the packing nut before tightening it to prevent leaks.
If you are unsure about any step of the process, it is best to consult a professional plumber.