Why You Shouldn't Ignore a Leaky Faucet
A faucet that drips once per second can waste thousands of gallons of water per year. Beyond the environmental impact, that wasted water shows up directly on your water bill. The good news? Most faucet leaks are DIY-friendly repairs that require only basic tools and an hour or two of your time.
What You'll Need
- Adjustable wrench
- Flat-head and Phillips screwdrivers
- Replacement washers, O-rings, or cartridge (depending on faucet type)
- Plumber's grease
- Needle-nose pliers
- A rag or small bucket
Step 1: Identify Your Faucet Type
Before you buy any parts, you need to know what kind of faucet you have. The four main types are:
- Ball faucets – Common in kitchens; have a single handle that rotates over a rounded ball-shaped cap.
- Cartridge faucets – Found in both kitchens and bathrooms; use a cartridge inside the handle.
- Compression faucets – Older style with two separate handles; tighten to stop water flow.
- Ceramic disc faucets – Modern, single-lever style using a ceramic cylinder.
Step 2: Shut Off the Water Supply
Locate the shutoff valves under the sink and turn them clockwise until they stop. Then turn on the faucet to release any remaining pressure and drain the lines. Place a rag or bucket under the sink to catch drips.
Step 3: Disassemble the Faucet Handle
Remove the decorative cap on top of the handle (if present) using a flat-head screwdriver. Unscrew the handle screw and pull the handle off. Keep all parts organized — a phone photo of each step can be a lifesaver during reassembly.
Step 4: Replace the Worn Part
This is where the faucet type matters:
- Compression faucets: Replace the rubber washer at the bottom of the stem. This is the most common cause of dripping.
- Cartridge faucets: Pull out the cartridge (note its orientation) and replace it with an identical one from the hardware store.
- Ball faucets: Replace the ball, springs, seats, and O-rings using a repair kit specific to your brand.
- Ceramic disc faucets: Clean the ceramic disc with white vinegar. Replace only if cracked or damaged.
Step 5: Reassemble and Test
Reassemble the faucet in reverse order. Apply plumber's grease to O-rings before reinstalling to extend their life. Slowly turn the water supply back on and test the faucet. Check under the sink for any new leaks around the supply lines as well.
When to Call a Plumber
If the leak persists after replacing the internal parts, or if you notice corrosion on the faucet body, cracks in the fixture, or difficulty shutting off the supply valves, it may be time to call a licensed plumber. Some issues — like a corroded valve seat — require specialized tools to fix properly.
Final Thoughts
Fixing a leaky faucet is one of the most rewarding plumbing DIY projects a homeowner can tackle. With the right replacement parts and a little patience, you can stop that drip, save water, and gain confidence for your next plumbing repair.