How to Replace a Washer on a Freezeproof Faucet

Before the cold weather arrives this year, you may want to give your outdoor, freezeproof faucet the once over. After all, if it’s not working properly, it could go from freezeproof to frozen solid. For starters, you’ll want to make sure that there are no leaks and that the faucet is still properly sloped. You’ll also want to check for dripping water. If the faucet is dripping water unnecessarily, there is a good chance that the seat washer is worn out. Replacing a freezeproof faucet’s seat washer is an inexpensive and easy task to complete. Here’s how to get the job done:

Supplies Needed

In order to replace the seat washer in your home’s outdoor, freezeproof faucet, you will need to purchase a few supplies. You will need an adjustable pipe wrench, a screwdriver, a pair of locking-grip pliers and a new seat washer. Seat washers for freezeproof faucets are available for purchase through plumbing supply stores and home improvement stores. In my experience, a replacement seat washer will cost you less than $1. You may also want to have a packing washer on hand as well. A packing washer is also apt to cost you less than $1.

Remove the Faucet’s Handle

Start the job by shutting off the water supply to your home’s outdoor, freezeproof faucet. Then use your tools to remove the faucet’s handle and expose the faucet’s packing nut and packing washer. Proceed by removing the packing nut and the washer. Examine the packing washer for wear and tear. If it looks worn, go ahead and replace it at this time.

Remove the Faucet’s Stem

Once the packing nut and washer have been removed, separate the faucet’s stem from the faucet’s body. Try not to bang the stem around as you remove it from the faucet’s body. Otherwise you could accidently screw up the faucet’s slope or damage the end of the stem. If you have never removed a freezeproof faucet’s stem before, you may be surprised at its length.

Replace the Faucet’s Seat Washer

The seat washer is located at the far end of the faucet’s stem. Remove the worn seat washer and replace it with a new one. Then reinsert the faucet’s stem back into the faucet’s body. Afterward, reattach the packing washer, the packing nut and the handle. Finish the repair job by turning the water supply back on and testing the faucet.

Source: Personal Experience

Killeen Gonzalez has a history of completing DIY home improvement projects with her family.

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