There’s nothing worse than going to wash your hands, only to find that the faucet is beyond repair. With a quick fix, you can save yourself a lot of money and water. This article will show you how to replace an outdoor faucet stem.
Please note: this tutorial is specific to outdoor faucets, which are often found in basements. If you’re having trouble finding the inside of your faucet, it may be outside or underground. You may need to call a plumber for help with this one!
Get Ready to Replace the Faucet
Before you start, you will want to make sure you have a new faucet stem, two wrenches, and a basin to catch any excess water.
First, turn off the water and unscrew the old faucet stem. You’ll need to remove the washer that is inside of it before doing so. This may be difficult but try to use pliers or vice-grips if necessary.
Next, look for the “O” ring on the new stem and insert it into the bottom of the new one. The “O” ring should be placed in such a way that it’s facing up when installed.
Finally, screw in your new faucet stem by hand first then with a wrench. If there is an “O” ring on this side as well, make sure it’s facing up as well before tightening down with your wrench.
Shut Off the Water Supply
The first step is to turn off the water supply. This can be done by turning the knob or handle on the pipe that’s connected to your faucet. If you have a garden hose hooked up, you’ll want to unscrew the head of the hose by turning it counterclockwise. Make sure that there is no water coming out of the pipe before you attempt this step.
Remove the Old Faucet Stem
The first step is to remove the old faucet stem. If you’re lucky, all you’ll need to do is unscrew it by hand. If this doesn’t work, use a wrench to remove it.
Once the old stem is removed, unscrew the drain plug at the bottom of the faucet. This can be done with a socket wrench or by hand.
Once the water has drained from the faucet, use an adjustable wrench to loosen and remove the compression nut located at the top of your new faucet stem. You may need to use a basin wrench for this part if your nut is really stubborn or your hands are too small.
Remove the O-rings
Before you can replace the stem, you’ll need to take out the old one. Remove any O-rings that are on the top of the stem, which will make it easier for you to remove it. To take out the inside of the stem, use a wrench and turn counter-clockwise. You should be able to pull out the inner piece from its place with your hands
Install New O-rings
First, you’ll need to replace the O-rings. Water will leak out of your faucet if the o-rings are worn and dry. You can purchase replacement O-rings at any hardware store.
Slide the new o-ring onto the stem with your fingers. The o-ring should be on one side of the stem, with a little bit hanging over the other side.
Install New Faucet Stem
If you have an outdoor faucet and it’s time to replace the stem, follow these steps:
- First, turn off the water by turning the knob at the base of your outdoor faucet.
- Next, unscrew the small screw at the top of your outdoor faucet handle.
- Then, remove your old stem by pulling it out and putting your new one in its place.
- Replace the screws on either side of your new stem and turn on the water again.
Turn Your Water Back On
The first thing you should do is turn the water back on. It can take a while for the water to stop flowing from the leak, so it’s important to make sure that your faucet is working correctly before going any further. The easiest way to do this is by turning your water on at the valve near your house.
Test Your Faucet
Before you start tearing apart your faucet, make sure that it’s turned off. In order to do this, turn the outside knob in a clockwise motion until it stops. You should hear a distinctive ‘click’ sound when it’s fully turned off and no water will come out of the spout or hose. Now test the inside of your faucet by holding your hand under the nozzle and turning the knob in a counterclockwise motion until the water starts to flow. After that, close the outside knob again to turn off the water.
Conclusion
A faulty faucet stem can make a beautiful bath or kitchen area unusable. Luckily, it’s not too hard to replace an outdoor faucet stem. Just be sure to shut off the water supply and get ready to replace the faucet. Then, remove the old stem and O-rings and install new ones. When you’re done, turn your water back on and test your faucet!