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Short Summary
Main recommendation: To fix a dripping double handle faucet, identify the leaking side, shut off the water, then replace the internal part that matches your faucet type (ceramic disc, compression/reverse-compression, or cartridge), usually with a new kit or cylinder rather than repairing old seals. The video covers the process for all three types, plus cleaning or replacing the aerator and flushing the line when finished.
Key Points
- Isolate the leak first by turning off the shut-off valves one at a time; if the drip continues after closing the first valve, the other side is leaking.
- Ceramic disc faucets: replacing the whole cylinder is recommended over repairing discs and seals.
- Compression and reverse-compression faucets require replacing the washer, O-ring or gasket on the valve stem, and the valve seat.
- Cartridge faucets are fixed by swapping the cartridge itself.
- Mineral buildup in the aerator can be softened with white vinegar, and a clogged aerator can also be cleaned by soaking it in vinegar.
Details Worth Noting
- Concrete instructions:
- Stuck shut-off valves: turn off the water at the main valve instead.
- After shutting off both supplies, turn the faucet on to release residual water, close the drain, and place a towel in the sink.
- Aerator removal: if it won't unscrew, soak a towel in white vinegar, wrap it around the aerator, wait one hour, then gently twist it off. Lay parts in order and photograph them for reassembly. Bag the parts and take them to the store.
- Buy a new repair kit and replace everything, even if only one part seems faulty. Buy a new aerator if the old one is damaged.
- Ceramic disc: loosen the set screw, remove the handle, remove the retainer nut, pull out the cylinder, install a new cylinder, and reassemble.
- Compression: remove the handle and unscrew the valve stem. Remove the old gasket, screw, and seat washer from the stem. Apply plumber's grease, then install a new gasket, seat washer, and screw. Remove the valve seat with a seat wrench or hex wrench, insert a new one, and reassemble.
- Cartridge: unscrew the set screw, remove the handle, remove the retaining clip or nut, gently pull out the cartridge, insert a new one, and reassemble.
- Final flush: slowly turn on the supply valve with the aerator removed and run water for a few minutes to flush debris. Soak the aerator in white vinegar, rinse, and screw it back on.
- The video notes these directions are typical and the manufacturer's instructions for your specific faucet should be checked.
- Lowe's offers an installation video if you would rather replace the entire faucet.
Bottom Line
Identify the leaking side first, then match the repair to your faucet type; for most types, a complete replacement part is the simplest fix.
