How to Fix a Leaky Faucet: A Step-by-Step Guide

A leaky faucet is more than just an annoying drip. Left unfixed, that steady drip can waste over 3,000 gallons of water per year and lead to water stains, mineral buildup, and even mold growth around your sink.

The good news is that most faucet leaks are straightforward to fix, even if you have limited plumbing experience. This guide walks you through the process for all four major faucet types.

Identify Your Faucet Type

Before you start, you need to know what kind of faucet you have. There are four common types:

Compression Faucets

These are the oldest and simplest design. They have two separate handles for hot and cold water. When you turn the handle, it compresses a rubber washer against a valve seat to stop water flow.

Ball Faucets

Common in kitchens, ball faucets have a single handle that moves over a rounded ball-shaped cap. The ball has chambers and rubber seats that control water flow and temperature.

Cartridge Faucets

Cartridge faucets can have one or two handles. Inside, a movable cartridge controls water flow. Single-handle versions move up and down for flow and side to side for temperature.

Ceramic Disc Faucets

The most modern and durable type. They use two ceramic discs that slide against each other to control water flow. These rarely leak but when they do, the fix is usually straightforward.

Tools You Will Need

Gather these tools before you start:

Adjustable wrench
Phillips and flathead screwdrivers
Replacement parts (washers, O-rings, or cartridge)
Plumber's grease
Rags or towels
Small Allen wrench set

Step-by-Step Repair

Step 1: Turn Off the Water

Locate the shutoff valves under the sink and turn them clockwise to shut off the water supply. Turn on the faucet to release any remaining pressure and water in the lines.

Step 2: Plug the Drain

Place a rag or drain stopper in the sink drain. Small parts like screws and washers can easily fall down an open drain.

Step 3: Disassemble the Faucet

Remove the decorative cap on the handle (if present), then remove the handle screw. Carefully pull the handle off. The next steps depend on your faucet type.

For compression faucets: Remove the packing nut with a wrench, then pull out the stem. Inspect the rubber washer at the bottom — if it is worn, cracked, or flattened, replace it.

For ball faucets: Remove the cap and collar, then lift out the ball. Check the rubber seats and springs inside the faucet body. Replace any worn parts.

For cartridge faucets: Pull out the retaining clip (if present) and pull the cartridge straight up and out. Replace the entire cartridge with an identical replacement.

For ceramic disc faucets: Remove the escutcheon cap and unscrew the disc cylinder. Inspect the ceramic discs for damage and check the seals. Clean or replace as needed.

Step 4: Reassemble and Test

Put everything back together in reverse order. Turn the water back on slowly and check for leaks. If the faucet still drips, double-check that all parts are properly seated and tightened.

When to Replace Instead of Repair

Sometimes a repair is not worth the effort. Consider replacing your faucet entirely if:

The faucet is more than 15 years old
You cannot find replacement parts
The faucet body itself is corroded or damaged
You have had to repair it multiple times in the past year

A new quality faucet costs between $100 and $300 and can last 15 to 20 years with proper care.

Prevention Tips

Do not over-tighten faucet handles — this accelerates washer wear
Clean aerators every few months to prevent mineral buildup
Address drips immediately — they only get worse over time
Consider upgrading to ceramic disc faucets for long-term reliability