Troubleshoot a Washerless Faucet
Washerless faucets come in single-lever or two-handle varieties, and are stronger than traditional washer-based faucets. However, washerless faucets do develop leaks and other problems over time. It is possible to repair your washerless faucet on your own if you know what to look for.
Ball Handles
Ball faucets use a hollow or metal ball inside the faucet's body to rotate the faucet's handle. If the handle of the faucet begins leaking, you will need to adjust the adjusting ring, which is located under the handle. You can remove the handle by removing the set screw, which is generally located on the underside of the handle. Remove the handle and adjust the adjusting ring. If this does not solve the problem, you may need to remove and replace the cam washer. The cam washer is located inside the spout sleeve, which will be attached to the spout itself. Further disassembly may be required if the faucet continues to leak. The valve seat, or springs that are located under the sink level, may be worn and need to be replaced.
Disc Faucet
A disc faucet runs along a disc attached to the sink. These move left to right to control the temperature of the water. The disc itself will rarely wear out, but the rubber washers underneath the disc may wear due to corrosion. On a single-handle disc faucet there will be three washers that control hot, cold and mixed water. To access the washers, remove the set screw from the underside of the handle. This can be removed using an Allen wrench. Remove the trim cap from the sink and remove the two screws from the faucet body. Check that the inlet seals are free of wear. Replace any that are corroded or out of alignment. Make sure to keep the alignment the same as they were when taken out.
Two Handled Faucets
Two-handled faucets are rotated along a seal and spring set that controls the water. If the faucet is leaking, remove the cap of the handle and the handle screw. You will be able to remove the handle and the bonnet nut. Remove the stem unit and the O-ring from the faucet assembly. This will be under the bonnet nut. If this looks cracked or worn, replace it with a new piece. If the faucet continues to leak you may need to replace the seal underneath the stem unit. The seal and spring can be removed using needle-nose pliers.
