A single dripping faucet wastes up to 3,000 gallons of water per year — that’s money literally going down the drain. The good news? Most leaky faucets can be fixed in under an hour with basic tools, zero plumbing experience, and parts that cost under $15.
What Causes a Leaky Faucet?
Before reaching for tools, it helps to know why faucets leak. The culprit is almost always one of these:
- Worn-out O-rings — rubber seals that degrade over time
- Damaged cartridge or stem — the internal valve that controls water flow
- Corroded valve seat — the connection between faucet and spout
- Loose packing nut — especially common in older compression faucets
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
- Adjustable wrench
- Phillips and flathead screwdrivers
- Allen wrench set (hex keys)
- Needle-nose pliers
- Replacement cartridge or O-rings
- Plumber’s grease
Step 1 — Identify Your Faucet Type
| Faucet Type | How to Identify |
|---|---|
| Ball | Single handle that rotates over a rounded cap |
| Cartridge | Single or double handle, smooth operation |
| Ceramic Disc | Single lever on a wide cylindrical body |
| Compression | Two separate handles that require twisting pressure |
Step 2 — Turn Off the Water Supply
Locate the shut-off valves under the sink — one for hot, one for cold. Turn them clockwise until they stop. Then open the faucet fully to release remaining pressure and drain the lines.
Step 3 — Remove the Faucet Handle
Look for a decorative cap on top of the handle. Pop it off with a flathead screwdriver to expose the screw beneath. Remove the screw (usually Phillips or Allen), then pull the handle straight up.
Step 4 — Access the Internal Cartridge or Stem
This step varies by faucet type. For cartridge faucets, pull the cartridge straight up with pliers (note the orientation before removing). For compression faucets, unscrew the packing nut and pull out the stem.
Step 5 — Replace the Worn Parts
Take the worn cartridge, O-rings, or stem to your local hardware store for an exact match. Coat new O-rings lightly with plumber’s grease before installing.
Step 6 — Reassemble the Faucet
Follow your disassembly steps in reverse. Align cartridge notches correctly and don’t overtighten the packing nut.
Step 7 — Test and Check for Leaks
Slowly turn the shut-off valves back on. Turn the faucet on and off several times. Inspect under the sink with a flashlight.
When to Call a Plumber Instead
Call a professional if the leak is coming from the pipe connections (not the faucet), you see signs of pipe corrosion, or the faucet is more than 15–20 years old.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does a faucet repair take?
- Most repairs take 30–60 minutes for a first-timer.
- How much does it cost to fix a leaky faucet yourself?
- Parts typically cost $8–$25. Hiring a plumber costs $100–$300 for the same job.
- Can I fix a leaky faucet without turning off the main water supply?
- Yes — if your sink has individual shut-off valves under the cabinet.
- Why does my faucet still drip after replacing the cartridge?
- The valve seat may be damaged or corroded. Use a seat wrench to resurface or replace it.
Conclusion
Fixing a leaky faucet is one of the highest-ROI home repairs you can tackle yourself. In under an hour and for the cost of a coffee, you eliminate wasted water, reduce your utility bill, and build confidence for bigger repairs.