Fixing a Leaky Faucet Step by Step
A dripping faucet wastes water and money. Most leaks are easy DIY repairs with the right knowledge and tools.
Types of Faucets
Identify Your Faucet Type:
| Type | Characteristics | Common Leak Cause |
|---|---|---|
| Compression | Two handles, older style | Worn washer |
| Ball | Single handle, round cap | Worn springs, seals |
| Cartridge | Single or double handle | Worn cartridge |
| Ceramic disc | Single lever, smooth operation | Damaged seals |
Tools You'll Need
- Adjustable wrench or basin wrench
- Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
- Allen wrenches (hex keys)
- Pliers
- Replacement parts (based on faucet type)
- Plumber's grease
- Rags or towels
Before You Start
- Turn off water supply - Valves under sink or main shut-off
- Open faucet - Release pressure
- Plug the drain - Prevent losing small parts
- Take photos - Document assembly for reassembly
Compression Faucet Repair
Fixing a Worn Washer:
- Remove decorative handle cap
- Unscrew handle screw (Phillips or Allen)
- Pull off handle
- Use wrench to remove packing nut
- Unscrew the stem
- Remove old washer from bottom of stem
- Replace with exact match washer
- Apply plumber's grease to threads
- Reassemble in reverse order
Ball Faucet Repair
Replacing Seals and Springs:
- Remove handle set screw and handle
- Remove cap and collar with pliers
- Use ball faucet tool to remove cam
- Lift out ball assembly
- Remove old seals and springs with needle-nose pliers
- Install new seals and springs
- Reinstall ball, cam, and handle
Tip: Purchase a ball faucet repair kit - includes all commonly worn parts.
Cartridge Faucet Repair
Replacing the Cartridge:
- Remove handle cap and screw
- Remove handle
- Remove retaining clip (if present)
- Pull cartridge straight out (may require special tool)
- Note cartridge orientation
- Insert new cartridge in same orientation
- Reassemble handle
Ceramic Disc Faucet Repair
Replacing Seals:
- Remove handle
- Unscrew escutcheon (decorative cap)
- Unscrew mounting screws
- Lift out cylinder
- Remove seals from underside
- Clean cylinder openings
- Install new seals
- Reassemble - turn water on slowly to avoid cracking ceramic
Troubleshooting
Still Leaking After Repair:
- Check O-ring on faucet body
- Verify correct replacement parts
- Inspect valve seat for damage
- May need to replace entire faucet
Water Spraying from Handle:
- Replace O-rings on stem
- Check packing nut tightness
**Low Water Pressure After Repair:**
- Clean aerator
- Check for debris in faucet body
- Verify valves are fully open
When to Replace Instead of Repair
- Multiple components worn
- Faucet over 15 years old
- Parts no longer available
- Repair cost approaches replacement cost
- Want to upgrade style or efficiency