Quck answer
To stop a Peerless faucet from dripping, follow these steps:
1. Turn off the water supply: Locate the shut-off valves under the sink and turn them clockwise to shut off the water supply.
2. Remove the handle: Use a screwdriver or Allen wrench to remove the screw or set screw holding the handle in place. Once removed, pull the handle off.
3. Tighten the packing nut: Locate the packing nut beneath the handle. Use an adjustable wrench to tighten it clockwise until snug.
4. Replace the handle: Place the handle back on and secure it with the screw or set screw. Make sure it is properly aligned.
5. Turn on the water supply: Turn the shut-off valves counterclockwise to restore the water supply.
By following these steps, you can effectively stop a Peerless faucet from dripping and prevent water wastage.
Peerless faucets are sold at major retailers like Lowe’s and are backed by Delta Faucet Company, a leading North American faucet manufacturer. Some Peerless single-handle faucets have ball valves, while others have cartridges, similar to Delta faucets. Repairing a Peerless faucet, specifically stopping leaks, usually involves replacing rubber gaskets or O-rings, which is an easy task for both ball-valve and cartridge faucets.
Fixing a Peerless Ball-Valve Faucet
A leaking ball-valve faucet can usually be attributed to the rubber gaskets covering the water inlet holes and the springs behind them. To replace these parts, the ball assembly needs to be removed:
- Turn off the shutoff valves.
- Remove the handle using a Phillips screwdriver or 1/8-inch hex wrench.
- Unscrew the dome-shaped ball cover by hand.
- Unscrew the ball retainer with locking pliers.
- Remove the ball to expose the two gaskets at the bottom of the valve housing.
- Use a screwdriver to pry out the gaskets and springs.
Replace the gaskets and springs with Peerless faucet parts from a hardware store. Before re-assembling the faucet and turning the water back on, check the ball for any nicks or gouges and replace it if necessary.
Fixing a Peerless Cartridge Faucet
Peerless shower and tub faucets, as well as double-handle faucets, typically have cartridge valves. When these faucets leak, it may be due to worn gaskets in the inlet holes, damaged cartridges, or worn O-rings. It’s recommended to replace everything, including the cartridge, when fixing a leaky faucet.
- Turn off the water.
- Remove the handle.
- Unscrew the retaining nut with locking pliers.
- Use pliers to lift out the cartridge. If it’s stuck, dissolve mineral deposits with vinegar and try again.
- Remove any rubber gaskets from the inlet holes using a screwdriver.
- Replace the cartridge and all O-rings and gaskets.
Fixing Other Peerless Faucet Issues
If a Peerless faucet is leaking from under the handle, the retaining nut holding the cartridge or ball valve may be loose:
- Remove the handle and dome-shaped collar to access it.
- Tighten it with pliers.
Peerless shower faucets may have a set of seats and springs behind the cartridge that can wear out:
To troubleshoot a Peerless shower faucet, start by disassembling the faucet and removing the cartridge. Then, pull out the seats and springs and replace them with parts from a compatible Peerless repair kit. If the shower diverter fails to send all the water to the shower, you may need to replace the diverter and the tub spout. Keep in mind that it’s normal for a thin flow of water to come from the tub spout when the shower is on.
FAQ
1. How can I determine the cause of a dripping Peerless faucet?
A dripping Peerless faucet can be caused by a few different factors. First, check the rubber O-ring inside the faucet handle. If it is worn or damaged, it may need to be replaced. Another common cause is a faulty cartridge, which can be found inside the faucet body. If the cartridge is worn or clogged, it can cause leaks. Additionally, mineral deposits or debris can accumulate inside the faucet aerator, causing drips. By identifying the specific cause, you can take the necessary steps to fix the dripping faucet.
2. How do I replace the O-ring in a Peerless faucet?
To replace the O-ring in a Peerless faucet, start by turning off the water supply to the faucet. Remove the handle by unscrewing the set screw underneath or popping off the decorative cap and unscrewing the handle. Next, locate the O-ring inside the handle or around the cartridge. Gently remove the old O-ring and replace it with a new one of the same size and shape. Make sure the O-ring is properly seated and secure before reassembling the faucet. Turn on the water supply and check for any leaks.
3. Can a dripping Peerless faucet be repaired without replacing the cartridge?
In some cases, a dripping Peerless faucet can be repaired without replacing the cartridge. If the drip is caused by a loose or worn-out handle, tightening or replacing the handle may solve the issue. Additionally, cleaning or replacing the faucet aerator can help if the drip is caused by mineral deposits or debris. However, if the cartridge itself is worn or damaged, it is usually best to replace it to ensure a proper fix. It is recommended to consult the manufacturer’s instructions or seek professional assistance for specific guidance on repairing your Peerless faucet.
4. How do I clean the aerator of a Peerless faucet?
To clean the aerator of a Peerless faucet, start by turning off the water supply. Unscrew the aerator from the faucet spout using pliers or an adjustable wrench. Carefully disassemble the aerator, taking note of the order of the parts. Rinse each part under running water to remove any debris or mineral buildup. If necessary, use a small brush or toothbrush to scrub away stubborn deposits. Once all the parts are clean, reassemble the aerator and screw it back onto the faucet spout. Turn on the water supply and check for any leaks.
5. When should I consider replacing a Peerless faucet instead of repairing it?
There are a few situations where it may be more practical to replace a Peerless faucet instead of repairing it. If the faucet is old and has frequent leaks or other issues, it may be a sign of overall wear and tear. Additionally, if the cost of repairing multiple components or hiring a professional becomes too high, it may be more cost-effective to invest in a new faucet. Lastly, if you are looking to upgrade the style or functionality of your faucet, replacing it can be a great option. Consider your specific circumstances and budget when deciding whether to repair or replace your Peerless faucet.