A leaky faucet is one of the most common household plumbing problems — and one of the most wasteful. A single faucet dripping once per second wastes over 3,000 gallons of water per year. The good news: most faucet leaks are straightforward to fix with basic tools and about 30 minutes of your time.
Step 1: Identify Your Faucet Type
Before you start, identify which type of faucet you have:
- Ball faucet — single handle that rotates over a rounded ball-shaped cap
- Cartridge faucet — single or double handle with a cartridge inside
- Compression faucet — older two-handle type, tightens to stop flow
- Ceramic disc faucet — wide cylindrical body with a single lever
The repair method differs for each type, so knowing what you have determines what parts you need.
Step 2: Turn Off the Water Supply
Locate the shut-off valves under the sink and turn them clockwise until closed. Then open the faucet to release any remaining pressure and water in the line. Place a towel under the sink to catch drips.
Step 3: Disassemble the Faucet Handle
Remove the decorative cap on the handle (usually pops off with a flathead screwdriver), then unscrew the handle screw and pull off the handle. What you see next depends on your faucet type:
- Cartridge faucets: Pull out the cartridge and take it to a hardware store for an exact match.
- Compression faucets: Unscrew the packing nut and remove the stem. Replace the rubber washer at the bottom.
- Ball faucets: Use a ball-faucet repair kit — they include all the small parts (springs, seats, O-rings).
- Ceramic disc faucets: Remove the cylinder and clean sediment off the discs with distilled white vinegar.
Step 4: Replace Worn Parts
Most faucet leaks are caused by worn O-rings, rubber washers, or a degraded cartridge. These parts cost $1–$15 at any hardware store. Bring the old part with you to ensure an exact match. Coat new O-rings and washers lightly with plumber's grease before installing.
Step 5: Reassemble and Test
Reassemble in reverse order — cartridge or stem first, then packing nut, then handle. Tighten firmly but don't overtighten. Turn the shut-off valves back on slowly and test for leaks. Check both the spout and around the base of the handle.
When to Call a Plumber
If you notice corrosion on the valve seat, cracks in the faucet body, or the leak persists after replacing parts, it's time to call a licensed plumber. A corroded valve seat or damaged faucet body usually means the fixture needs to be replaced entirely — a job best left to a professional who can also check for related issues under the sink.