Simple Home Repair

How to Fix a Dripping Faucet

September 1, 2026

A dripping faucet is usually caused by a worn washer, O-ring, cartridge, or valve seat. Most repairs take less than an hour.

What You’ll Need

  • Adjustable wrench
  • Phillips or flat-head screwdriver
  • Allen wrench, if needed
  • Replacement washer, O-ring, cartridge, or faucet repair kit
  • Plumber’s tape
  • Cloth or rag
  • Mild vinegar and an old toothbrush

1. Turn Off the Water

  1. Look under the sink for the two shutoff valves.
  2. Turn the valves clockwise until they are tight.
  3. Turn on the faucet to release remaining water.
  4. Put the drain stopper in place or cover the drain so small parts do not fall in.

If there are no shutoff valves under the sink, turn off the home’s main water supply.

2. Identify the Faucet Type

  • Compression faucet: Usually has separate hot and cold handles. The handle tightens down to stop the water.
  • Cartridge faucet: Often has one handle or two handles that turn only partway.
  • Ball faucet: Usually has one handle that moves in several directions.
  • Ceramic-disk faucet: Usually has one handle and a wide cylindrical body.

3. Remove the Handle

  1. Find the decorative cap or screw on the handle.
  2. Pry off the cap gently with a flat-head screwdriver, if necessary.
  3. Remove the screw with the appropriate screwdriver or Allen wrench.
  4. Pull the handle upward.

If the handle is stuck, gently wiggle it or use a handle-puller tool. Place parts in order as you remove them so they can be reinstalled correctly.

4. Replace the Faulty Part

Compression Faucet

  1. Use a wrench to loosen the packing nut.
  2. Remove the valve stem.
  3. Take out the screw holding the old rubber washer.
  4. Replace the washer with one of the same size.
  5. Inspect the valve seat for corrosion or damage. Replace it if necessary.
  6. Reassemble the stem and handle.

Cartridge Faucet

  1. Remove the retaining clip or nut holding the cartridge in place.
  2. Pull out the old cartridge.
  3. Clean the inside of the faucet body.
  4. Install a matching replacement cartridge.
  5. Reinstall the retaining clip, nut, and handle.

Take the old cartridge to a hardware store if you are unsure which replacement to buy.

Ball Faucet

  1. Remove the handle and dome cap.
  2. Lift out the ball.
  3. Replace the small rubber seats and springs inside the faucet.
  4. Check the ball for scratches or wear. Replace it if damaged.
  5. Reassemble the faucet.

Ceramic-Disk Faucet

  1. Remove the handle and retaining screws.
  2. Lift out the cylinder assembly.
  3. Clean the seals and faucet openings.
  4. Replace damaged seals or the entire cylinder assembly.
  5. Reassemble the faucet carefully.

5. Clean Mineral Deposits

If parts are coated with white or chalky buildup, soak them in white vinegar for 15–30 minutes. Scrub gently with an old toothbrush, then rinse thoroughly.

Do not use vinegar on delicate finishes for extended periods.

6. Reassemble and Test

  1. Reinstall the faucet parts in reverse order.
  2. Make sure screws and nuts are snug, but do not overtighten them.
  3. Turn the shutoff valves counterclockwise slowly.
  4. Turn on the faucet and check for leaks.
  5. If water leaks around a threaded connection, turn off the water and add plumber’s tape to the threads.

If the faucet still leaks after replacing the internal parts, the faucet body, valve seat, or supply connection may be damaged and may need professional repair or replacement call Michael The Handyman at https://hiremedo.click

Tip: Take a photo of the faucet before disassembling it. This makes it easier to remember where each part belongs.


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