Fix that dripping faucet.
A leaky faucet is both irritating and costly. Aside from the wasted water, the cost of a plumber keeps many from having that irritating drip fixed. Fortunately repairing some leaks can be accomplished without calling the repairman. If the water flow and temperature in your kitchen faucet is controlled by a ball valve, you can accomplish the repair yourself. Repair kits are available for Delta and Moen faucets. Other brands may require special order, so be aware of the model name or number when shopping for repair parts.
Instructions
1. Turn off the water supply to the sink. The shut-off should be found under the sink. If not, turn off the water at the main supply to your house. Open the faucet to release air.
Cover the drain in the sink to prevent accidental loss of parts down the drain.
2. Lift the faucet handle. Remove the decorative cover, if present, by prying it loose with the flat end of a screwdriver to reveal the Allen screw. Loosen the Allen screw by turning it counterclockwise with an Allen wrench until you can lift the handle from the base.
3. Loosen the plastic ring located inside the chrome-dome cap by pushing gently with a small flat-head screwdriver. Turn the chrome-dome counterclockwise with a pair of channel-lock pliers. Remove the plastic shield. Remove the ball.
4. Take out the seals and springs by lifting them with a flat-head screwdriver. Notice the positioning of the tapered springs so that they can be replaced properly.
5. Push the new seals and springs in place. Apply a small amount of silicone grease to the seals with the tip of a small screwdriver.
6. Align the groove in the new ball valve with the pin located in the right side of the socket and drop into position. Place the plastic shield over the ball. Hold the shield down with a pair of needle nose pliers as you screw on the chrome-dome. Tighten with channel-lock pliers. Tighten the plastic ring using the tip of a small screwdriver.
7. Replace the handle and tighten the Allen screw.
Turn on the water supply. Open the faucet and observe to see that the leaking has stopped.
