How to Fix a Dripping Faucet (DIY Guide)

A Dripping Faucet Adds Up

One drip per second = 5 gallons per day = 1,800+ gallons per year.

Beyond the water bill, that constant drip wears out your sanity. Let's fix it.

Identify Your Faucet Type

Before you start, figure out what you're working with:

Compression faucet (two handles)

• Oldest type, most common in older homes
• Separate handles for hot and cold
• Rubber washer seals water flow

Ball faucet (single lever, rounded cap)

• Common in kitchens
• Single handle that moves in all directions
• Uses a ball and spring mechanism

Cartridge faucet (single lever, no ball)

• Uses a cartridge to control flow
• Can be single or double handle
• Cartridge slides in and out

Ceramic disc faucet (single lever, wide cylinder)

• Newer, higher-end faucets
• Uses ceramic discs to control flow
• Very durable, rarely needs repair

Tools You'll Need

• Adjustable wrench or pliers
• Screwdriver (Phillips and flathead)
• Replacement parts (we'll identify these)
• Plumber's grease

Before You Start

1. Turn off water supply — shut-off valves under the sink
2. Open the faucet — release remaining pressure
3. Plug the drain — so you don't lose small parts
4. Take photos — document how things go together

Fixing a Compression Faucet

This type uses a rubber washer that compresses to stop water flow.

Step 1: Remove the Handle

1. Pry off decorative cap (if any)
2. Remove the screw underneath
3. Pull off the handle

Step 2: Remove the Packing Nut

Use an adjustable wrench to unscrew the packing nut (the large hex nut).

Step 3: Remove the Stem

Unscrew the stem by turning it counterclockwise (same direction you'd turn to open the faucet).

Step 4: Replace the Washer

At the bottom of the stem, you'll see a rubber washer held by a brass screw.

1. Remove the screw
2. Remove the old washer
3. Take it to the hardware store for an exact match
4. Install new washer
5. Reassemble

Cost: $2-5 for washers

Fixing a Ball Faucet

Ball faucets have many small parts. Consider buying a repair kit ($15-20) rather than individual pieces.

Step 1: Remove the Handle

1. Loosen the setscrew under or behind the handle (usually requires Allen wrench)
2. Pull off the handle

Step 2: Remove the Cap and Collar

Use pliers with a cloth (to avoid scratching) to unscrew the cap.

Step 3: Remove Ball and Cam

Lift out the plastic cam, cam washer, and ball.

Step 4: Replace Springs and Seats

Inside the faucet body, you'll see small springs with rubber seats. Remove with needle-nose pliers. Replace with new ones from your kit.

Step 5: Reassemble

Put the ball, cam, and collar back. Tighten cap. Replace handle.

Cost: $15-20 for complete kit

Fixing a Cartridge Faucet

This is often the easiest repair.

Step 1: Remove the Handle

1. Pry off decorative cap
2. Remove handle screw
3. Pull off handle

Step 2: Remove Retaining Clip

There's usually a small metal clip holding the cartridge. Pull it out with pliers.

Step 3: Remove Cartridge

Pull the cartridge straight out. It may require twisting or a cartridge puller tool ($10).

Step 4: Replace Cartridge

Take the old cartridge to the hardware store. Get an exact match (brand-specific).

Insert the new cartridge, ensuring correct orientation. Replace clip and handle.

Cost: $15-40 for cartridge

When to Call a Plumber

Call if:

• You can't identify the faucet type
• Parts are corroded and won't come loose
• You've replaced parts and it still drips
• The faucet is too old to find parts
• You'd rather spend time on other things

A plumber can fix a dripping faucet in 15-20 minutes.