Don't Ignore That Drip
A faucet that drips once per second wastes thousands of gallons of water per year. Beyond the environmental impact, that drip shows up on your water bill every month. The good news: fixing a leaky faucet is one of the most accessible plumbing repairs a homeowner can do, often requiring nothing more than basic hand tools and a $10–$20 repair kit.
Identify Your Faucet Type First
The repair method depends on what kind of faucet you have. The four most common types are:
- Ball faucet: Has a single handle that rotates over a rounded ball-shaped cap. Common in kitchens.
- Cartridge faucet: Has one or two handles that move up and down. Very common in bathrooms.
- Ceramic disc faucet: Has a wide single handle that moves over a flat cylinder. Premium and long-lasting.
- Compression faucet: Has two separate handles you tighten to stop water flow. Older style; most prone to leaks.
Tools and Supplies You'll Need
- Adjustable wrench
- Phillips and flathead screwdrivers
- Needle-nose pliers
- Replacement O-rings, washers, or cartridge (specific to your faucet model)
- Plumber's grease
- Bucket and towels
Step 1: Shut Off the Water Supply
Look under the sink for the shutoff valves — one for hot, one for cold. Turn them clockwise until they stop. Then turn on the faucet to release any remaining water pressure in the line. Place a towel or bucket under the sink to catch drips.
Step 2: Disassemble the Faucet Handle
Most faucet handles are secured by a screw hidden under a decorative cap. Pop off the cap with a flathead screwdriver, remove the screw, and pull the handle straight up. It may take gentle wiggling. Once the handle is off, you'll see either a cartridge, a ball mechanism, or a stem with a washer at the bottom — depending on your faucet type.
Step 3: Replace the Worn Part
| Faucet Type | Most Common Culprit | What to Replace |
|---|---|---|
| Compression | Worn rubber washer | Washer and O-ring on stem |
| Cartridge | Damaged cartridge | Entire cartridge |
| Ball | Worn springs/seats/O-rings | Full ball faucet repair kit |
| Ceramic disc | Cracked ceramic disc | Ceramic disc cylinder |
Take the old part to your hardware store to ensure you get the right replacement size. Many stores have staff who can help you match the part.
Step 4: Reassemble and Test
Apply a thin coat of plumber's grease to any rubber O-rings before reassembly — this prevents future cracking and makes the repair last longer. Reassemble in reverse order, then slowly turn the shutoff valves back on. Check for leaks around the base of the handle as well as at the spout. Turn the faucet on and off a few times to confirm the drip is gone.
When to Call a Plumber
If you notice water damage under the sink, rust on the pipes, or the leak returns quickly after repair, it may signal a deeper issue. Similarly, if your faucet is very old and parts are no longer available, replacement may be more cost-effective than continued repairs.
With a little patience and the right parts, most faucet leaks are a completely DIY-friendly fix — no plumber required.