Plumbing: Faucet Repair: Ceramic Disk

Ceramic-disc faucets are like cartridge faucets except discs inside the cartridge control the water flow. This type of valve is sturdy and reliable and rarely needs fixing. In fact, many manufacturers offer a lifetime warranty on the cartridge. Leaks can result from faulty rubber seals or a cracked disc inside the cartridge. Since replacement cartridges are expensive, start by replacing the seals arid reassembling the faucet. If it still leaks, replace the cartridge.

Right: A labeled cerami-disc-based faucet. Valve cap, Handle, setscrew, Retaining screws, stem, Ceramic-disc, cartridge, O-rings

Repairing an Aerator

Stow water flow. Unscrew aerator, remove debris, soak parts in vinegar and clean. Flush debris out of faucet and rein stall aerator.

Recommended Reading

Plumbing Step-by-Step Author(s): Sidey, Ken Publisher: Meredith Books Series: Better Homes and Gardens Format: Paperback Bargain Book Copy Overview: Includes dozens of projects, from fixing leaks to installing a new bathtub and shower. Features a simple, understandable format with photos and step-by-step instructions homeowners need to complete plumbing jobs. Covers repairs, improvements, replacements, and new installations of kitchen and bathroom fixtures. Lists the time, skills, materials, and tools needed to complete a project. Provides the best do-it-yourself resource for homeowners with little or no plumbing experience. Offers special tips on safety, tool use, and buying new fixtures. Note: Bargain books are new, unread books that the publisher sells-off in volume to reduce excess inventory. Sometimes the publisher printed too many copies, in other cases bookstores purchased too many copies and have returned them to the publisher for credit. The books therefore have been handled a few times but are still in excellent condition. In either case, the publisher may place a mark on the edge of the book to identify it as a Bargain Book. This ensures the book will never get returned to the publisher for credit. In most cases the mark is a small line or dot, however sometimes it's large. Product with excessive marking isn't sold through our web site.

Recommended Products

Bar and Kitchen Island Faucet with Ceramic Disc Valves - H71-8CMB (By:-PricePfister) Metal lever Handles Gooseneck Spout Flo-Down Aerator Chrome/Brass Finish

Rohl R3810USTN Rohl Pull-Out Spray Satin Nickel Kitchen Faucet - R3810USTN/ Short Handspray/ Ceramic Disc Cartridge/ Hard Water Resistant Soft Touch Elastomer Spray Face And Anti-Scald Device/ Stainless Steel Coil And Long-Lasting Chlorine Resistant Inner Liner/ Satin Nickel Finish

Cucina Single Hole Kitchen Faucet W/ Ceramic Disc Cartridge in Satin Nickel - 1100 Single Hole Kitchen Faucet W/ Ceramic Disc Cartridge Advanced Commercial Engineering Solid Brass Body NEW Commercial Design Modern Technology Designed For Professional Kitchens Cucina Lifetime Warranty

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Repairing a Spray Attachment

Faulty sprayer . Clean sprayer head and replace sprayer hose, if necessary. If problems persist, remove faucet and clean the sprayer diverter in faucet body.

Installing Shutoff Valves

Shutoff valves on every water-supply line simplify repairs and allow you to quickly deal with emergency faucet and toilet leaks. For long-term reliability, use ball-type valves and determine whether you need a straight or angled valve.

1. Shut off main water valve. Cut pipe at a point that leaves room to work. Pipe may come up from floor or out of wall. Disconnect old faucet supply lines. Remove burrs from inside and outside of pipe. Install escutcheon plate. Shutoffs are avail able for compression, solder or threaded fittings.

3. Attach supply lines to faucet first. Slide shutoff valve onto pipe. Coat threads with pipe compound. Use two wrenches to tighten compression fittings to hold the valve steady with its handle facing out. Check valve packing nut to make sure it’s tight.