Repairing faucets and valves

Replacing sink, bath and shower faucets

What does it mean when a faucet is said to have 8-inch centers?

The faucet mounts with the fixture holes set 8 inches apart. It's important that you buy the right size faucet to fit.

Installing Lavatory Faucets

§ The 4" lavatory faucet without a pop-up drain is relatively simple to install. Place plumber's putty in the groove just underneath the chrome framing to provide a tight seal (see image).

§ Insert the shanks of the lavatory faucet into the holes of the lavatory. Attach the locknuts and the washer to the shank and tighten them firmly into place.

§ Remove any excess putty from the base of the faucet. Connect the shank to the water supply and tighten.

§ Installing the 4" lavatory faucet with pop-up drain is more challenging. Start by carefully reading the instructions that came with the faucet.

§ First, remove the old faucet and pop-up drain.

§ Insert the new faucet into position. Add putty in the groove around the base of the faucet.

§ Slip the washer over the shank and thread the locknut up the shank, placing the faucet loosely in position.

§ Insert the drain plunger into the center hole and affix the adjustment bar to the drain plunger.

§ Place the pop-up drain body in position and attach it to the adjustment bar. Tighten all nuts and attach the faucet to the water system. Attach the pop-up drain body to the drain system.

§ Place the stopper in the drain body and work the drain plunger. Make any adjustments by moving the lever assembly up or down in the holes provided.

§ Installing the combination lavatory faucet with pop-up drain is much the same as the 4" lavatory faucet.

§ The main difference in this installation is that most models require the faucet handles, flanges and faucets to be removed. The assembly is then inserted from underneath the lavatory frame.

What do I need to do to repair my leaking faucet? Is it leaking from the handle or out the spout?

Most faucets are washer-type, and if these are leaking from the spout, you will have to replace the washer. If the seat is corroded, you will have to dress it or replace it.

If it is leaking from the handle, you may need to replace the O-rings, tighten the packing nut or replace the packing.

If a disk faucet is leaking, you will need to replace the O-ring. If it is leaking from the spout, you will need to replace the disk assembly. For ball-type faucet leaks, you may need to replace the cam assembly, the seat assembly and the ball.

Are all faucet seats the same?

No, you will need to bring in their old seat to match up with the new one. Each brand has its own design and thread.

How do I remove the seat?

Use a seat wrench, which has several sizes of square and hex ends.

What are the advantages of plastic supply lines?

They are less expensive, do not corrode, will not kink, are more flexible and are non-toxic.

When replacing a faucet, I was told that I should put some putty underneath the faucet. Why?

This is a good idea to keep moisture from getting under the faucet and into the cabinet below.