A dripping faucet might seem like a small issue, but that constant “drip, drip, drip” can drive you crazy—and waste gallons of water each month. Luckily, repairing a leaky faucet is one of the easiest home repairs you can tackle yourself. Whether you have a kitchen, bathroom, or outdoor faucet leaking, this step-by-step guide will walk you through how to fix it like a pro.
💧 Why Faucets Leak
Most faucet leaks are caused by worn-out washers, O-rings, or seals. Over time, these rubber or silicone components harden and crack, allowing water to slip through even when the handle is off. Mineral buildup or corrosion inside the faucet body can also cause slow drips. Identifying the cause will help you repair it correctly and prevent future leaks.
🔧 What You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather a few basic tools:
Adjustable wrench
Flathead and Phillips screwdrivers
Replacement washers or O-rings (specific to your faucet type)
Plumber’s grease
Rag or towel
Bowl or bucket to catch water
Having everything ready will make your faucet repair smoother and quicker.
🪛 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Turn off the water supply.
Locate the shutoff valves under the sink and turn them clockwise to stop the water. Open the faucet to release any remaining pressure.
2. Plug the drain.
Use a sink plug or towel to prevent losing small parts down the drain while you work.
3. Disassemble the faucet.
Carefully remove the handle using a screwdriver. Depending on your faucet type—compression, ball, cartridge, or ceramic disk—there may be different internal parts. Take pictures as you go so you’ll remember how to reassemble it.
4. Inspect the parts.
Look for worn washers, cracked O-rings, or corroded seats. These are the most common culprits for leaks.
5. Replace damaged components.
Take the old parts to a hardware store to find an exact match. Coat new washers or O-rings lightly with plumber’s grease before installing them.
6. Reassemble the faucet.
Put everything back together in reverse order, tighten gently, and avoid over-torquing metal parts.
7. Turn the water back on and test.
Open the faucet slowly to check for leaks. If the drip is gone, congratulations—you just fixed your faucet!
💡 Extra Tips
If your faucet continues to leak, the valve seat may be corroded and need replacing.
Clean any mineral buildup with vinegar before reassembly.
Consider installing an aerator to save water and improve flow.
🌿 Why Fixing Leaks Matters
A single dripping faucet can waste more than 3,000 gallons of water per year. By repairing leaks promptly, you’re saving water, lowering your utility bills, and helping the environment. Plus, it’s satisfying to know you solved the problem yourself without calling a plumber.
🏡 Final Thoughts
Repairing a leaky faucet is a quick and inexpensive DIY project that pays off immediately. With a few basic tools and the right replacement parts, you can stop that annoying drip and keep your plumbing in top shape.