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Replacing a Valve Stem Washer

easyHome Repair30-60 minutes10 steps

Safety Warnings

  • Shut off the main water supply before beginning to prevent flooding
  • Use caution when working with old, corroded metal to avoid stripping threads

Tools Needed

Wrench — Adjustable
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Screwdriver — Check locally
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Materials

Plunger Washer — Matching size of original(1)
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Steps

1
Shut off the water supply to the valve.
Tip: Open the faucet to drain remaining water in the line.
2
Remove the handle or valve knob to access the stem.
3
Unscrew the valve stem from the valve body using a wrench.
4
Inspect the plunger washer at the base of the stem for wear or corrosion.
Tip: A worn plunger washer is a primary cause of valve leaks.
5
Remove the old, worn washer from the stem.
6
Install a new plunger washer of the correct size.
7
Reinsert the stem into the valve body and tighten it securely.
8
Reattach the valve handle.
9
Slowly turn the water supply back on.
10
Test the valve for leaks by opening and closing it several times.

Pro Tips

  • If the entire float-valve assembly is badly corroded, replace the whole unit rather than just the washer.

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Sources

Synthesized from 2 verified sources:

USDA Farmers' Bulletin (Gutenberg)View →
Gutenberg: Simple Plumbing Repairs (FB 1460)View →