How to Fix a Leaky Faucet: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
A faucet that drips all day is more than an annoying sound. A single leak can waste gallons of water a week and slowly raise your bill. The good news is that most leaky faucets come from a few simple, worn parts you can often replace yourself in under an hour.
This guide walks you through why faucets leak, the tools you need, and clear steps to fix the most common types. If the leak keeps coming back or you find a bigger problem behind the wall, that is the point to call a licensed plumber.
Why Faucets Start to Drip
Most drips come from everyday wear inside the faucet. Water pressure and constant use slowly break down small parts until they no longer seal tightly. The most common causes are:
- A worn washer or O-ring that no longer seals the valve
- A corroded valve seat from mineral buildup in the water
- A damaged cartridge in single-handle faucets
- Loose or worn parts in the handle assembly
- High water pressure that stresses the whole fixture
Tools and Parts You Will Need
You do not need much to fix a basic leak. Before you start, gather these items so you are not stopping halfway:
- An adjustable wrench and a set of screwdrivers
- Replacement washers, O-rings, or a cartridge that matches your faucet
- Plumber’s grease and plumber’s tape
- A clean rag and a small bowl for parts
- White vinegar to clean off mineral buildup
Step by Step: How to Fix a Leaky Faucet
Start by turning off the water supply under the sink. Turn both the hot and cold shutoff valves clockwise until they stop, then open the faucet to drain any water left in the line. Plug the drain with a rag so no small parts fall in.
Next, take the handle apart. Remove the decorative cap, unscrew the handle screw, and lift the handle off. Under it you will find the valve, cartridge, or stem, depending on your faucet type.
Pull out the worn part and look it over. On a compression faucet you will usually find a flat rubber washer and an O-ring that have gone hard or cracked. On a single-handle faucet you will find a cartridge that may be split or clogged. Replace the worn parts with matching new ones, add a little plumber’s grease, and clean any mineral buildup with vinegar.
Put everything back together in the reverse order, then slowly turn the water back on. Run the faucet for a minute and watch the base, the handle, and the spout for any new drips.
When You Should Call a Plumber
Some leaks point to a bigger problem than a worn washer. Call a licensed plumber if the faucet still drips after you replace the parts, if water leaks from under the sink or inside the wall, if the shutoff valves will not turn, or if you see signs of corrosion on the pipes. These issues can lead to water damage if left alone, and a pro can fix the root cause quickly.
Need a licensed plumber in Peoria now?
If the fix is beyond a quick DIY, our faucet and fixture repair line connects you with a local, licensed plumber, day or night.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Fixing a leaky faucet is one of the most satisfying home repairs because it is quick, cheap, and saves water right away. In most cases a new washer, O-ring, or cartridge solves the problem in under an hour.
If the drip returns or you spot a leak behind the wall, do not let it sit. A licensed local plumber can handle it before it turns into water damage. Our team serves both Peoria, Arizona and Peoria, Illinois around the clock, so help is only a call away.
