Single Control Faucet Repair

The image at the bottom shows all of the parts used in the most popular single handle faucets. Although the model pictured is for the kitchen, the bathroom sink and showers are repaired in much the same way. This type of faucet is available from many companies. The one shown at the bottom is Delta/Peerless, and has been widely copied by many "Store Brand" faucet companies. The identifying characteristic of this faucet type is the round control ball (7)inside. Other types may take a cartridge, which may, or may not be rebuildable. These instructions do not pertain to products made by Moen/Stanadyne, Sterling/Rockwell, Kohler, American Standard, and newer Valley/Sears models, which are cartridge types. See instructions below for these types.

Leaks

A leaky faucet is usually easy for the do-it-yourselfer to repair. In most cases, no special tools are required. In some situations, a pipe wrench may be needed. Below is a list of tools you may need.

The first step is to shut off the water leading to the faucet. Next, remove the handle (1). To remove most handles, locate the set screw (2) under the front and pull off. Sometimes the handles will be stuck on from soap. You can gently tap, or pry it off. You can now unscrew the knurled cap assembly (3). To keep the cap from being scratched, wrap in electrical tape first. If it won't come off, you will need to use a larger Pipe Wrench. DO NOT use a Vice grip. It will probably crush the cap, which is made from soft brass. Remove the cam assembly (6) and Ball (7). Next, remove the seats (rubber) and springs (8) located in the bottom of the hole that you removed the ball.

Replace the Seat and Spring assemblies. The seats must be of the correct type for your faucet. For Delta/Peerless, they come in two styles. If you have the old brass ball, use long seats and  springs. For the plastic, or newer Stainless Steel balls use the conical style short set.

Now, lets look at the ball. This ball works in conjunction with the springs and seats. If the ball is nicked or scratched, it will wear out your new seats very quickly. Replace the ball if needed. Any type will do as long as you use the correct seats. Replace the ball if needed. Any type will do as long as you use the correct seats. Replace the ball and replace the cam assembly. Re-install the Cap assembly and turn the water back on. Check for leaks. If you get water around the shaft of the ball, you will need to screw down the adjusting ring (3).

If it is leaking around the spout (4), the rubber spout "O" rings need to be replaced. Follow the dis-assembly instructions above, and also pull off the spout by lifting as you wiggle it back and forth. If your faucet has a spray hose, the control for this, the spray diverter (10), is located under the spout, as well. If the water comes out of the both the spout and sprayer, the spray diverter is usually the bad boy that needs replacing. Often people think that the spray head assembly is the problem when it is actually the spray diverter.

If everything is OK, replace the handle and you are done.

Cartridge Type (Moen)

This type of faucet is a little more difficult to service, but can usually still be done by the average Do-It-Yourselfer. First, remove the handle. The handle type varies from model to model. Most have a chrome or plastic cap on top. Remove the cap, and then the screw. On most models that use a metal lever handle, the next part you will come to is a brass or chrome Pivot Nut. Screw this off, This step usually will not apply if you have a clear plastic handle. Looking down at the cartridge, you will see two clips. The larger horseshoe retainer clip (see diagram) needs to be slipped. off. DO NOT REMOVE the small retainer clip around the center of the cartridge. Using the white plastic tool that comes with the new cartridge, rotate the cartridge back an forth, then with pliers, pull the cartridge straight out. If it won't move, wiggle as you pull. If it still won't come, I recommend you rent or buy a Moen Cartridge puller to do this.

Insert new cartridge, and replace all of the other parts. If you have water leaking around the spout, the Spout Seals ("O" rings) need to be replaced. Refer to the instructions for the Delta type faucet.

If you still have problems, contact your nearest Hardware Store!