A worn flapper valve in the toilet tank leads to an unwanted trickle of water, driving up the water bill. To drain the tank for repairs, turn off the water supply and flush.
Similar but not identitical: Flapper assemblies differ slightly depending on the make and model of toilet. But the basic process of replacing them is the same.
The flapper on this flush assembly pops off without any tools. Simply replace the old flapper with a new one. Be careful not to break off the barbed plastic pin.
The drip that drives you crazy: A trickle from a single-lever kitchen faucet is a sign of a worn valve-stem assembly. Before starting repairs, turn off both water-supply lines.
Replacement cartridges for this Moen faucet come in brass or plastic. Plastic is less expensive and works just as well.
Pop to the cap on the top of the faucet with a screwdriver or utility knife, then remove the single screw to free the faucet lever. You might need to work the lever back and forth gently to pull it up.
Use slip-joint pliers to free the retainer nut uncovered when you removed the lever. You will cover this nut when you reassemble the faucet so don't worry about marring the finish.
Use a thin-bladed screwdriver to pry out the retaining clip that holds the cartridge in place. Then remove the spout by pulling it up and off. Use a towel to catch the small amount of water that leaks when you lift off the spout.
While you have the spout off, Sorrell suggests you replace the O-rings on the body of the faucet, which prevent leaks at the base of the faucet. You can buy O-ring kits where you buy cartridges. Use a small screwdriver to ease off the old rings. Install new ones with lubricant supplied with the replacement kit.
Remove the cartridge, but first note the location of the small notch at the top of the stem. When you install the new cartridge, make sure the notch points in the same direction. Plumbers use a special tool to pull the cartridge from the faucet, but pliers also will work (it just might take some wiggling to break the tension). Retrace your steps to install the new cartridge.
