Why You Shouldn't Ignore a Leaky Faucet
That slow drip might seem minor, but a faucet dripping once per second can waste thousands of gallons of water per year. Beyond the environmental cost, it adds up on your water bill. The fix is usually inexpensive and can be done in under an hour with basic tools.
Step 1: Identify Your Faucet Type
The repair approach depends on the type of faucet you have. The four main types are:
- Ball faucet: Single handle that rotates over a rounded ball-shaped cap. Common in kitchens.
- Cartridge faucet: Single or double handle with a cartridge inside. Very common in modern homes.
- Compression faucet: Two separate handles (hot and cold) that you tighten to stop flow. Older style.
- Ceramic disc faucet: Single lever over a wide cylindrical body. High-end and very durable.
Tools and Materials
- Adjustable wrench or basin wrench
- Phillips and flathead screwdrivers
- Replacement washers, O-rings, or cartridge (model-specific)
- Plumber's grease
- Bucket and towels
Step 2: Shut Off the Water Supply
This is critical. Look under the sink for the shut-off valves — turn them clockwise until they stop. Then turn on the faucet to release any remaining pressure and confirm the water is off. If there are no under-sink valves, use the main shut-off for your home.
Step 3: Disassemble the Faucet Handle
- Remove the decorative cap on the handle (if present) — these usually pop off with a flathead screwdriver.
- Unscrew the handle screw beneath the cap.
- Pull or wiggle the handle off the stem. Some handles require a handle puller tool if they're stuck due to mineral buildup.
Step 4: Fix by Faucet Type
Compression Faucet
The most common cause of dripping in compression faucets is a worn rubber washer at the bottom of the stem. Remove the packing nut, pull out the stem, and replace the washer at the bottom. Coat the new washer with plumber's grease before reassembly.
Cartridge Faucet
Pull out the cartridge (note its orientation). Take it to a hardware store to find an identical replacement, or look up your faucet model for the exact part number. Insert the new cartridge in the same orientation and reassemble.
Ball Faucet
Ball faucets have several small parts: springs, seats, and O-rings that all wear out. Purchase a ball faucet repair kit specific to your brand — it includes all the parts you need. Replace everything in the kit while you have it disassembled.
Ceramic Disc Faucet
Remove the ceramic cylinder and inspect the neoprene seals on the bottom. Clean them with white vinegar to remove mineral deposits, or replace them if they're cracked. Only replace the full ceramic disc if it's visibly cracked — these are durable and rarely fail.
Step 5: Reassemble and Test
- Reassemble all components in reverse order.
- Turn the water supply back on slowly.
- Test the faucet — check for both proper flow and absence of dripping.
- If it still drips, double-check that the replacement part was seated correctly.
Quick Reference: Most Common Causes by Faucet Type
| Faucet Type | Most Likely Culprit |
|---|---|
| Compression | Worn rubber washer |
| Cartridge | Faulty cartridge |
| Ball | Worn springs, seats, or O-rings |
| Ceramic Disc | Dirty or damaged seals |
With the right parts and a bit of patience, fixing a leaky faucet is one of the most rewarding beginner plumbing repairs you can tackle at home.