If you're having trouble, ask for assistance to make sure you are purchasing the right part.

Instead, wait until you have the old one in hand so you know for certain you're getting the right piece.įind the same stem at the hardware store. Odds are you'll just have to take it back. You will not know what kind of stem you need prior to taking the faucet apart, so do not buy it in advance. Bring this part to your local hardware or plumbing supply store to buy a replacement. Using a valve stem wrench or channel locks, remove the stem. There may also be some hexagonal parts that you will have to use a wrench to take care of. In a newer simple system, there is usually only the collar, but older faucets, especially bathtub faucets, may have a knurled fitting that can be removed with a channel lock. Depending on the type of faucet you are working on and how old it is, there may be several other parts to remove before the collar and stem can come off. Remove the collar from around the stem as well. Slide the decorative handle off of the stem and set it aside. Take the appropriate style screw driver and turn the screw counterclockwise to remove it. Depending on the type you have, you may find there are more parts to be removed than expected. It is a good idea to list on paper the order in which you remove parts so it's easier to reassemble the faucet later.

This will be covering a screw that secures the handle in place, so when you see it, pry it off with a flathead screwdriver if you're unsuccessful, try a channel lock pliers instead. Then, look at the handle on the faucet, and check for a cap in the center. Once the water pipes are empty, cover the drain in the sink with a rag or other item to keep small parts from accidentally falling into it.

Picture of a valve stem remover