How to Fix a Leaking Kohler Kitchen Faucet Valve

When damage occurs to a Kohler faucet valve, a leak usually follows, because water is able to flow through the damaged area. If you see water leaking from the top of a Kohler kitchen faucet, or any other part of the faucet, it is due to a worn out or broken cartridge, which is the faucet’s valve. Replacing the cartridge valve will usually solve the problem. Fortunately, replacing this faucet valve is not difficult at all and only takes a few minutes.

Repairing Versus Fixing a Kohler Kitchen Faucet Valve

It isn’t practical to repair a Kohler faucet valve, which is sealed and very difficult to fix. Since a new valve costs under $25 and is readily available from Kohler’s online parts store, it really makes more sense to replace the entire valve. The replacement process usually takes less than a half-hour.

Why the Kohler Kitchen Faucet Leaks from the Top

Most Kohler faucets leak from the top because that’s where the water typically finds a way out. The valve is seated close to the top of the faucet, and there is a small gap between the base of the handle and the base of the faucet. The faucet might also leak from the base or under the sink, depending on the design. Where the faucet leaks is not particularly important, however — just about any leak signals a problem with the valve.

Accessing Kohler Faucet Valves and Cartridges

To replace the Kohler faucet’s cartridge or valve, you must turn off the water supply to the sink. Then access the valve by taking the handle off the top of the faucet with a special tool called an Allen wrench. Fit this wrench into the screw head at the base of the handle, unscrew it, then pull the handle off the faucet. The valve is located under a round cap and a retaining nut. Unscrew both of them and take them off. Then pull the valve out of the faucet with your hands.

Kohler Valve and Cartridge Replacement

Replacing the valve isn’t difficult. All you need to do is insert the new faucet valve in place of the old one and replace the related parts you removed. At this point, you can turn the water back on and look for leaks around the base and top of the faucet. If you find any, remove the handle and tighten the retaining nut to seal the valve.