Stop that annoying drip by learning how to fix a leaky kitchen faucet in no time.
Time 1 hour or less
ComplexityBeginner
Cost$10 - $40
Introduction
Save hundreds on plumber fees by following these straightforward steps on how to fix a leaky faucet yourself.
Did your water bill go up for a mysterious reason? It’s worth checking if you have a leaking faucet! Even the smallest drips can add up! A leaking faucet can be very annoying, but the good news is that you don’t have to be a plumber to fix it. There are many different types of faucets out there, but they all primarily function the same way. If you have a leaking faucet, it is usually due to worn-out parts inside the faucet, such as the rubber O-rings, washers, or cartridges that control the water flow. Over time, these parts can become damaged or degraded, leading to a leaky faucet.
My kitchen faucet had a persistent drip that wouldn’t stop, even when it was turned off. First, I identified the make and model of my faucet to determine which replacement parts I needed to order. I ended up ordering a new cartridge for my faucet. Although my project focused on repairing a kitchen faucet with a drip, the same procedures can be used to fix most single-lever bathroom faucets.
Tools Required
- Adjustable wrench
- Allen wrenches
- Flathead screwdriver
- Needle-nose pliers
- Phillips screwdriver
- Plumber socket set with bar handle
Materials Required
- Clean rags
- Replacement cartridge
- Vinegar (optional)
Project step-by-step (7)
Step 1
Turn off the water
Locate the cold and hot water shutoff valves below the sink, which are usually connected to the water supply lines. Once you have identified them, turn off the valves. If your leaky faucet does not have shut-off valves attached to the water lines, you will need to turn off the water where it enters your house at the water main. Ensure that the water no longer flows by turning on the faucet.
Step 2
Remove caps and covers
Cover the drain to avoid losing any parts or tools you may drop. Depending on your faucet model, you might need to remove caps or covers that hide the screw securing the handle. In my case, the cap required a flathead screwdriver to remove. If you are unsure where to find this screw, consult your faucet’s manual.
Step 3
Remove the handle
Depending on your faucet, you will need an Allen wrench or screwdriver to loosen the screw holding the faucet handle in place. Remove the screw. Then pull the handle to remove it from the faucet.
On single-handle faucets, there is also usually a cap that must be unscrewed under the handle before accessing the cartridge.
Step 4
Loosen and remove the locknut
Typically, a clip or a locknut holds the cartridge in place. To access the faucet cartridge, you need to remove it by twisting it counterclockwise. However, I had difficulty removing the brass locknut on my faucet using a wrench because the space was too tight. As a result, I had to use a plumber’s socket for the job.
Step 5
Remove the cartridge
Remove the cartridge using your hand; if you can’t, use pliers. When you are taking it out, keep track of the cartridge’s orientation in the faucet body to ensure you install the new one in the same manner.
When disassembling the faucet, if you encounter any rubber O-rings that appear corroded, now is the time to replace them with new ones.
TIP: Is there mineral buildup? Use white vinegar on a clean rag to clean away any debris.
Step 6
Replace the cartridge
Replace the cartridge with a new one that matches your faucet’s make and model. If you’re unsure of the specifications, look up your faucet’s make and model online to find the compatible cartridge. Additionally, if the retainer nut or clip looks corroded, be sure to replace those as well. When you insert the new cartridge, ensure it is properly aligned before reconnecting the locknut.
Step 7
Reassemble and test
Reassemble the faucet, turn the water back on, and test to see if the leak has stopped. If it continues to leak, check that the cartridge is seated properly and that the valve seat or O-rings are not damaged.
FAQ
What’s the most common cause of a leaky faucet?
Worn-out rubber O-rings, washers, and faulty cartridges are the most common causes of leaking faucets.
Does a leaky faucet increase my water bill?
Leaky faucets can significantly increase your water bills, even if the leak is just a slow drip. Over time, that seemingly minor drip can add up to a surprising amount of wasted water, leading to higher costs and unnecessary water usage.
Does it matter if my faucet drips?
It matters if the faucet is dripping because it wastes water, increases water bills, and can lead to water damage and mold growth.
What’s the difference between faucets in the sinks and faucets in the tub or shower?
Sink faucets are designed for moderate water flow for handwashing and are smaller than tub or shower faucets. Tub and shower faucets handle larger water flow and often include diverters.
