Why You Should Fix That Dripping Faucet Now
A faucet that drips once per second wastes a surprising amount of water over the course of a year — and that adds up on your water bill too. The good news is that fixing most leaky faucets is a beginner-friendly DIY task that requires no special training, just a few basic tools and about an hour of your time.
What You'll Need
- Adjustable wrench or basin wrench
- Phillips and flathead screwdrivers
- Replacement washers, O-rings, or cartridge (depending on faucet type)
- Plumber's grease
- Towels and a bucket
- Penetrating oil (for corroded parts)
Step 1: Identify Your Faucet Type
Before you buy any parts, you need to know what kind of faucet you have. The four most common types are:
| Faucet Type | How to Identify | Common Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Ball faucet | Single handle that rotates over a dome cap | Replace ball, seats, and springs |
| Cartridge faucet | Single or double handle, smooth action | Replace cartridge |
| Ceramic disc | Single lever, wide cylindrical body | Clean or replace ceramic disc |
| Compression washer | Two separate handles, older style | Replace rubber washer |
Step 2: Turn Off the Water Supply
Locate the shutoff valves under the sink (usually two knobs — one for hot, one for cold). Turn them clockwise until they stop. Then open the faucet to release any remaining pressure and water.
Step 3: Disassemble the Faucet Handle
- Remove the decorative cap on top of the handle (use a flathead screwdriver).
- Unscrew the handle screw and pull the handle off.
- Use your wrench to remove the packing nut underneath.
- Pull out the stem or cartridge — take note of the orientation.
Step 4: Replace the Worn Part
Inspect the washer, O-ring, or cartridge for visible wear, cracking, or deformation. Take the old part to a hardware store to match it exactly, or check your faucet's manufacturer website for the correct replacement part number.
- Apply plumber's grease to the new washer or O-ring before installing.
- For cartridge faucets, ensure the new cartridge is aligned in the same direction as the original.
Step 5: Reassemble and Test
- Reassemble the faucet in reverse order of how you took it apart.
- Slowly turn the water supply back on.
- Test the faucet — check for drips both when open and closed.
- If there's still a minor drip, check that all connections are snug (but don't overtighten).
When to Call a Plumber
Most faucet leaks are DIY-friendly, but there are times when a professional is worth the cost:
- You see water damage or mold under the sink.
- The leak is coming from the pipes themselves, not the faucet.
- You've replaced the parts and the drip persists.
- You're not comfortable working with older or corroded plumbing.
With a little patience and the right replacement part, fixing a leaky faucet is one of the most satisfying home repairs you can do yourself. You'll save money, conserve water, and build confidence for future home projects.