How to Replace a Washing Machine Faucet

This guide will tell you exactly how to replace a washing machine faucet. Thankfully, this is a very simple repair to make, which you should be able to do yourself without needing to call a technician. Simply follow our step-by-step instructions, and your new faucet will be installed.

Before you can replace your faucet, ensure you get the correct replacement part. Most hardware stores will stock them, so this shouldn’t be a problem.

Once you have the correct replacement faucet, you can get started.

Step 1 – Turn the water off

The first step is to turn the water supply off. Locate the shutoff valve and turn it off (make sure it’s the correct shutoff valve for the faucet you’re replacing). For most washing machine water supply setups, the shutoff valve can be found under the sink. If you can’t find a shutoff valve, the whole water supply will have to be turned off while you repair it. If you live in an apartment building or set of flats with an interconnected water supply, you will need to consult with your building manager or neighbors before turning the water supply off.

Step 2 – Disconnect the faucet handle

The next step is to disconnect the faucet handle. Before doing this, double check the water supply has been turned off. The purpose of removing the handle is so you can gain access to the locking nut that holds the stem in place.

Follow these instructions to disconnect the faucet handle:

1. Locate the screw at the top of the handle (most likely under a cover). Once located, unthread the screw.
2. Next, gently remove the handle and place it out of the way.

Step 3 – Disconnect the faucet stem

The next step is to disconnect the stem. The stem is there to help control the flow of water through the faucet, so it needs to be removed before installing the new faucet. To remove the stem, you will need a wrench.

Follow these instructions to disconnect the faucet stem:

1. Open the faucet and use a wrench to loosen the lockdown nut. Some faucets have a cover that has to be removed before you can loosen the lockdown nut.
2. Disconnect the stem by rotating it (rotate it in the same direction as the lockdown nut).
3. Once the stem is removed, place it out of the way with the lockdown nut.

Step 4 – Install a new washer

The next step is to install a new washer if the existing one is damaged. You can find the washer at the bottom of the stem. Replacing a defective washer will ensure the new faucet you install works correctly.

Follow these instructions to inspect and, if necessary, replace the washer:

1. Locate the washer (it’s at the bottom of the stem).
2. Remove the washer by unthreading the screw that holds it in place.
3. Inspect it for signs of wear and tear.
4. If damaged, replace the washer. You can purchase a new washer from most hardware stores. If the washer isn’t damaged, you can place it back into the stem and secure it with the screw. Before using the old screw, make sure it isn’t damaged. If it is, you will need to use a new screw.
5. If you replace the washer, place it into position and secure it in place with the screw.

Step 5 – Replace the washing machine faucet

The final step is to install a new washing machine faucet. Once installed, you can start using your washing machine again. Before installing the new component, double-check that you have purchased the correct replacement parts. You will also need to have or buy a waterproof grease lubricant to install the new faucet.

Follow these instructions to install the new faucet:

1. Start by spraying lubricant on the threads of the stem. This will help stop leaks and allow the stem to open and close correctly.
2. Reattach the stem. You can do this by placing the stem into the body of the faucet and then securing it in place with the screw you removed earlier. Before reattaching the stem, it’s a good idea to inspect the O-ring to ensure it isn’t damaged. If it is, replace it.
3. Reattach the handle. You can do this by placing it into position and threading the screw back into the top, so it’s secure in place.

Step 6 – Turn the water supply back on

1. Turn the shutoff valves back on so that the water supply works again. If you had to turn off your building’s water supply, you will need to arrange for it to be turned back on.
2. Double check no leaks are coming out of the faucet. If the faucet is not leaking, you can start using your washing machine again!