How to Fix a Dripping Faucet (Step by Step)

Fixing a dripping faucet is a common household repair that can save you money on your water bill and prevent water waste. The first step in how to fix a dripping faucet is to identify the type of faucet you have, as this will determine the parts and steps involved in the repair. The four main types of faucets are compression, ball, cartridge, and ceramic-disc.

Types of Faucets and Common Issues

Each type of faucet has specific components that can wear out and cause dripping. Here’s a breakdown:

• Compression Faucet: This type has a stem with a rubber washer at the bottom. The usual culprit is a worn washer.
• Ball Faucet: This faucet uses a ball-shaped device to control water flow and temperature. Drips are often due to worn O-rings or a damaged ball.
• Cartridge Faucet: This type uses a cartridge to control water flow. A dripping faucet is usually caused by a worn cartridge or O-rings.
• Ceramic-Disc Faucet: This faucet has a ceramic disc that controls water flow. Drips are typically due to damaged seals or debris in the disc assembly.

To fix a dripping faucet, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the water supply: Locate the shutoff valves under the sink and turn them clockwise to stop the water flow. If there are no valves, turn off the main water supply.
2. Plug the drain: Use a sink plug or a rag to prevent small parts from falling down the drain.
3. Remove the handle and trim: Use a screwdriver or Allen wrench to remove the handle and any decorative trim.
4. Remove the stem or cartridge: Depending on your faucet type, unscrew the stem or pull out the cartridge.
5. Replace the worn part: Inspect the washer, O-ring, or cartridge and replace any worn components. Apply plumber’s grease to the new parts if necessary.
6. Reassemble the faucet: Put the stem or cartridge back in place, replace the handle and trim, and tighten all screws.
7. Turn the water back on: Slowly turn the shutoff valves counterclockwise to restore water flow and check for leaks.

Here is a table summarizing the faucet types, likely causes of dripping, and the parts to replace:

If you encounter seized valves, corroded faucet bodies, leaks inside the wall, or if there is no working shutoff valve, it’s best to call a licensed plumber to avoid causing further damage.

Tools and parts you’ll need

• Adjustable wrench
• Phillips and flat-head screwdrivers
• Replacement washers or O-rings
• Replacement cartridge (if needed)
• Plumber’s tape
• Cloth or rag
• Small container or bowl

How to tell which faucet type you have

Identifying your faucet type is crucial for effective repair. Here are the common types:

• One-handle faucet: This type typically uses a cartridge. The handle moves up and down and side to side to control water flow and temperature.
• Two-handle faucet: These can be either compression or cartridge style. Compression faucets have a stem and seat washer, while cartridge faucets operate similarly to single-handle ones but with separate controls for hot and cold.
• Ball faucet: This type has a ball-shaped cap on top and uses a ball mechanism to control water flow and temperature. It is common in kitchen faucets.
• Disc faucet: These have a single lever and are controlled by two ceramic discs that move against each other. They are often found in modern bathrooms.

When the drip comes from the spout vs the base

Understanding where the drip is coming from can help you diagnose the problem more accurately:

• Drip from the spout: This is usually due to a worn-out washer or cartridge. For compression faucets, the washer may need replacing. For cartridge faucets, the entire cartridge might need to be replaced.
• Drip from the base: If water is leaking from the base of the faucet, it is likely due to a faulty O-ring or seal. The O-ring is a small rubber ring that seals the connection between the faucet and the spout. Replacing the O-ring or seal can often fix this issue.

Always remember to turn off the water supply before starting any repair and to follow safety guidelines to prevent damage or injury.

Fixing a two-handle (compression) faucet

Follow these steps to fix a dripping two-handle compression faucet:

1. Shut off the water supply. Locate the shut-off valves under the sink and turn them clockwise to stop the water flow.
2. Remove the handle. Use a screwdriver to take off the handle screw and lift the handle off.
3. Remove the packing nut. Use a wrench to unscrew the packing nut, turning it counterclockwise.
4. Pull out the stem. Once the packing nut is removed, pull the stem straight out of the faucet body.
5. Replace the seat washer and O-rings. Remove the old seat washer and any damaged O-rings. Replace them with new ones that match the original parts.
6. Reassemble the faucet. Put the stem back in place, tighten the packing nut, and reattach the handle. Turn the water supply back on and test the faucet.

Fixing a single-handle cartridge faucet

To fix a dripping single-handle cartridge faucet, follow these steps:

1. Shut off the water supply. Turn off the water by closing the shut-off valves under the sink.
2. Pop off the handle cap. Use a small flathead screwdriver to gently pry off the cap on the handle, revealing the handle screw.
3. Remove the retaining clip. Use pliers to remove the retaining clip that holds the cartridge in place.
4. Remove the handle. Unscrew the handle screw and lift the handle off the faucet.
5. Pull out the cartridge. Grasp the cartridge and pull it straight out of the faucet body.
6. Replace with the exact match. Insert a new cartridge that matches the old one. Make sure it is seated properly.
7. Reassemble the faucet. Reattach the handle, retaining clip, and handle cap. Turn the water supply back on and test the faucet.

Common mistakes to avoid

When fixing a dripping faucet, be careful to avoid these common mistakes:

• Forgetting to shut off the water. Always turn off the water supply before starting any repair to prevent flooding.
• Letting small parts fall down the drain. Use a towel or a small container to catch any parts that may fall during the repair.
• Overtightening. Avoid overtightening nuts and screws, as this can damage the faucet and lead to leaks.
• Buying the wrong cartridge. Make sure to purchase a replacement cartridge that matches the make and model of your faucet. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions or consult a professional if unsure.

Frequently asked questions

What causes a dripping faucet?

A dripping faucet is usually caused by a worn rubber washer, O-ring, or cartridge, depending on the type of faucet.

How do I turn off the water supply to fix a dripping faucet?

Locate the shutoff valves under the sink and turn them clockwise to stop the water flow. If there are no valves, turn off the main water supply.

Can I fix a dripping faucet myself?

Yes, if you have basic DIY skills and the right tools, you can fix a dripping faucet. However, if the problem is complex or if there are leaks inside the wall, call a licensed plumber.

What tools do I need to fix a dripping faucet?

You will need a screwdriver, an adjustable wrench, replacement parts (washer, O-ring, or cartridge), and plumber's grease.

How do I know which part to replace in my faucet?

Identify the type of faucet you have (compression, ball, cartridge, or ceramic-disc) and refer to the table for the likely cause and part to replace.

What should I do if the dripping continues after I fix it?

If the dripping continues, double-check that all parts are properly replaced and reassembled. If the problem persists, consult a licensed plumber.