A leaky faucet is annoying, wastes water, and wastes money. Whether your leaky faucet is in your kitchen or bathroom, learning how to fix a leaky faucet is a skill many homeowners want to master.
While some leaks are simple five-minute fixes, others can hide deeper issues like high water pressure or corroded valves. This guide will walk you through the basics of how to fix a leaky faucet, and help you identify when it’s time to put down the wrench and call in the pros.
Preparing to Fix Your Leaky Faucet
Before you try to fix leaky faucet issues, you need to identify what kind of faucet you have. Most modern homes have one of four types: Compression, Cartridge, Ceramic Disk, or Ball.
What you’ll need:
- Phillips and flat-head screwdrivers
- An adjustable wrench or Allen wrench
- Replacement O-rings and washers
- Plumber’s grease
4 Steps to Fix a Leaky Faucet
1. Shut Off the Water
Never start a repair with the water on. Start by shutting off the water by turning the shut-off valves clockwise as far as they’ll go without forcing them. These valves can be found under the sink. Turn the faucet on to drain any remaining water in the line.
2. Disassemble the Handle
Remove the decorative cap on the handle (usually marked ‘H’ or ‘C’), unscrew the handle, and lift it off. If you are working on a kitchen faucet, you may need an Allen wrench to loosen the set screw.
3. Inspect the Cartridge or Washer
In most cases, the “drip” is caused by a worn-out rubber O-ring or a cracked cartridge. Pull the cartridge or stem out of the faucet body. If you see mineral buildup or cracks, that’s your culprit.
4. Replace and Reassemble
Take the old part to the hardware store to ensure an exact match. Once replaced, coat the new parts in a little plumber’s grease, reassemble the handle, and turn the water back on slowly.
When DIY Becomes a “Don’t”
We love a handy homeowner, but some leaks are symptoms of bigger problems. You should stop what you’re doing and call a professional if:
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The leak is under the sink:
This often indicates a failed supply line or a cracked pipe rather than a simple faucet issue.
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You have “specialty” fixtures:
High-end bathroom faucets often require specific manufacturer tools to disassemble without scratching the finish.
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The dripping persists:
If you’ve replaced the parts and it’s still leaking, you may have a cracked valve seat or high water pressure issues that could eventually lead to a burst pipe.
Why Choose Arnold & Sons for Your Faucet Repair?
At Arnold & Sons, we see “simple” DIY projects turn into “emergency” floor repairs all the time. Our team doesn’t just swap a washer; we inspect your entire fixture to ensure the underlying plumbing is sound.
When you choose us for your leaky faucet repair, you get:
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The Right Parts, Right Away:
No three-trip runs to the hardware store.
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Finish Protection:
We use the right tools to ensure your expensive chrome or matte black fixtures aren’t scratched.
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A Total System Check:
We’ll ensure your water pressure is at a safe level to prevent future leaks.
Tired of the dripping? Skip the hardware store and let the experts handle it. Learn more about our bathroom faucet and kitchen faucet repair services, or reach out now for fast, effective repairs.
