How to Fix a Leaky Faucet
A dripping faucet isn't just annoying — a faucet that drips once per second wastes over 3,000 gallons of water per year. Most leaky faucets can be fixed in under an hour with basic tools. The fix depends on the faucet type: ball, cartridge, ceramic disc, or compression.
Likely Causes
- 1Worn O-ring on the faucet stem
- 2Damaged or worn cartridge (most common in single-handle faucets)
- 3Corroded valve seat
- 4Worn-out washer or packing
- 5Loose packing nut
Low urgency but genuine water waste and potential for mineral buildup to worsen over time.
How to Fix It: Step by Step
- 1Turn off the water supply
Close the shutoff valves under the sink or at the main. Open the faucet to release pressure.
- 2Remove the faucet handle
Pry off the decorative cap, remove the screw underneath, and pull off the handle.
- 3Identify the faucet type
Ball, cartridge, ceramic disc, or compression. The repair differs by type — check your faucet brand for cartridge part numbers.
- 4Remove and inspect the cartridge or washer
Pull out the cartridge or unscrew the stem. Inspect the washer, O-rings, and cartridge body for wear, cracking, or mineral buildup.
- 5Replace the worn parts
Take the old cartridge or washer to the hardware store for an exact match, or use a universal repair kit for your faucet brand.
- 6Reassemble and test
Reverse the disassembly steps. Turn water back on slowly. Test for drips at the spout and base.
Materials & Tools Needed
Warning Signs It's Getting Worse
- ⚠Leak spreading to under-sink cabinet floor
- ⚠Water pressure drops at this faucet
- ⚠Rust or brown discoloration in water
When to Call a Professional
Call a plumber if the leak is at the supply line connection (not the faucet itself), if you can't identify the faucet type, or if replacing the cartridge doesn't stop the drip — the valve seat may need resurfacing.
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