How to Fix a Leaky Faucet in 5 Simple Steps (And When to Call a Pro)

That constant drip… drip… drip… of a leaky faucet is more than just annoying; it’s money literally going down the drain. A single faucet can waste hundreds of gallons of water a year, leading to a surprisingly higher utility bill.

The good news? Fixing a leaky faucet is one of the most common and achievable DIY home repairs. With a little guidance, you can often silence the drip in under an hour.

Before you start, you’ll need a few basic tools:

• Adjustable wrench or basin wrench
• Phillips and flat-head screwdrivers
• Replacement washer and/or O-rings (Pro Tip: Take your old parts to the hardware store to ensure a perfect match!)
• Rag or towel
• Vinegar (for cleaning mineral deposits)

Step 1: Safety First – Turn Off the Water!

This is the most important step. Look under your sink for two small valves (one for hot, one for cold). Turn them clockwise until they stop. If you can’t find them, you’ll need to turn off the main water supply to your house. Once off, turn on the faucet to drain any remaining water and relieve pressure.

Step 2: Plug the Drain & Disassemble the Faucet

Plug the sink drain with a stopper or rag to prevent any small screws or parts from disappearing forever. Now, carefully remove the faucet handle.

• For handles with a cap: Look for a small “H” or “C” cap. Pry it off gently with a flat-head screwdriver to reveal the screw underneath.
• For handles without a cap: There may be a visible screw on the side or front of the handle.

Remove the screw and lift the handle off. You might need to wiggle it a bit if it’s stuck from mineral deposits.

Step 3: Identify the Culprit

With the handle off, you’ll see the inner workings. Now, use your wrench to unscrew the packing nut and carefully lift out the valve stem.

• For compression faucets (two handles): The most common cause is a worn-out washer at the bottom of the stem. It may be torn, flattened, or cracked.
• For cartridge or ball-style faucets (single handle): Look for worn O-rings along the side of the cartridge or a corroded valve seat. Often, cleaning mineral buildup with vinegar is enough to solve the leak.

Step 4: Replace the Parts

Take your old washer or O-rings to the hardware store and buy identical replacements. This is the key to a successful repair! Install the new parts exactly where the old ones were. While you have it apart, take a moment to clean any mineral buildup from the faucet body with your finger or a rag dipped in vinegar.

Step 5: Reassemble and Test

Carefully reassemble the faucet in the reverse order you took it apart. Hand-tighten everything first, then give the nuts a gentle snug with your wrench—be careful not to over-tighten, as this can damage the threads.

Turn the water supply back on slowly. Let the water run for a moment to clear any air from the pipes. Keep an eye out for leaks around the handle and spout. If the drip is gone, congratulations! You’ve just saved water, money, and your sanity.

When to Call a Pro at Handyman 25

While many faucet leaks are DIY-friendly, some situations call for a professional:

• You’ve replaced the parts, but it’s still leaking. This could indicate a cracked valve seat or a more complex internal issue.
• You can’t identify the faucet type or find the right parts. Modern faucets can be complicated, and using the wrong part can cause more damage.
• The leak is coming from the base of the faucet or the pipes underneath the sink. This could signify a more serious plumbing issue.
• You just don’t have the time, tools, or confidence. There’s no shame in it! A small job for a pro is often quicker and cheaper in the long run than a DIY attempt that goes wrong.

Don’t let a stubborn drip wear you down. If your faucet fix isn’t going to plan, the experts at Handyman25 are just a click away. We’ll get it sorted quickly, correctly, and with a guarantee.
Contact Us Today for a fast, free quote!

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