How Do I Fix a Leaky Faucet?
Topics
- Faucet
- Drip
- Leak
- Cartridge
- Washer
Answer
A dripping faucet wastes 3,000+ gallons per year and the fix almost always costs under $15 in parts. The repair approach depends on your faucet type.
Identify your faucet type first
- Ball faucet (single handle that swivels) — Most common in kitchens. The ball moves to control hot/cold mix and flow.
- Cartridge faucet (single or double handle) — Handle pulls up to turn on, rotates for temperature. Common in bathrooms.
- Compression faucet (two separate handles that tighten) — Older style, very common in bathtubs.
- Ceramic disc faucet (single lever, wide cylindrical body) — Newer, most durable; leaks are rare and easy to fix.
Ball faucet repair
Buy a ball faucet repair kit for your brand ($12–20, includes all seats, springs, O-rings, and the ball). Shut off the water under the sink. Remove the handle (usually one set screw under the decorative cap). Disassemble, noting the position of parts. Replace everything in the kit, reassemble in reverse order.
Cartridge faucet repair
Turn off water. Remove handle, pull out the cartridge (usually held by a clip or nut). Take the cartridge to the hardware store to match it — or note the brand and model. Install the new cartridge in the correct orientation (flat side up on Moen, for example). Reassemble.
Compression faucet repair
Turn off water. Remove handle (screw under the hot or cold button). Unscrew the packing nut with a wrench. The stem unscrews from the body. At the bottom of the stem is a rubber washer held by a brass screw — this is almost always the culprit. Replace the washer and O-ring, reassemble.
The shutoff valve trick
If the shutoff valve under the sink is corroded and won't close fully, you may need to turn off the main house shutoff for this repair. After fixing the faucet, consider replacing the shutoff valve while you have access — it's a $15 fix that prevents a much bigger emergency later.
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