Here's a guide to fix your leaking mixer:
Mixer with Classic Rotary Knobs:
If a two-handle mixer starts to leak, it's usually just the washer that needs to be replaced. See the first image. Start by turning off the water, both the cold water and hot water lines. Then follow these steps to easily replace the washer (ceramic or rubber) in a mixer with classic rotary knobs:
- Unscrew the gland nut.
- Under the gland nut, there's a screw that needs to be loosened.
- Remove the handle.
- Unscrew the cap threaded on the gland packing.
- Using the appropriate tool, unscrew the existing gland packing and replace it with a new one.
- Reassemble the mixer in reverse order.
Mixer with Single Lever Function:
For a leaking single-lever mixer, it's usually the cartridge (the valve that adjusts temperature and flow) that needs to be replaced. See the second image. Like all mechanical installations, this valve wears out over time. It may also depend on the amount of lime in your water, as lime can block and wear down the internal washers of the mixer after several years of use. Start here as well by turning off the water. Then replace the cartridge like this:
- Remove the index button. Some can be unscrewed, for others, you may need a narrow tool to gently pry it off.
- Unscrew the screw found underneath.
- Lift off the handle.
- Unscrew the cap.
- Use an appropriate tool to loosen the nut.
- Pull the cartridge straight out and replace it with a new one.
- Reassemble in reverse order.
