Know-How
How to Fix a Dripping Faucet
Beginner45 minutesHome Repair

How to Fix a Dripping Faucet

Contents

1Shut off the water supply2Plug the drain3Remove the faucet handle4Unscrew the packing nut5Replace the washer or O-ring6Reassemble the faucet7Test the repair

Tools & Materials

🔧

Adjustable Wrench

Used to loosen the packing nut and faucet assembly.

🪛

Screwdriver

Phillips or flathead for removing the handle screw.

🔘

Replacement Washers or O-rings

New parts to replace the worn-out ones causing the leak.

🧴

Plumber's GreaseOptional

Silicone-based lubricant for rubber seals.

🧼

Towel

Used to cover the drain and protect surfaces.

Safety Warnings

  • Always turn off the water supply before beginning to prevent flooding.
  • Ensure the drain is covered to prevent small parts like screws from falling down the pipe.
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A dripping faucet is a common household annoyance that wastes water and can increase your utility bills. Follow this guide to identify the source of the leak and replace worn-out components to restore your faucet to proper working order.

Shut off the water supply
1

Shut off the water supply

2 minutes

Locate the shut-off valves under the sink and turn them clockwise until they are fully closed.

If there are no valves under the sink, turn off the main water supply to the house. Open the faucet to drain any remaining water in the pipes.

Failure to shut off the water will result in significant water spray once the faucet is disassembled.

Test that the water is off by turning the faucet handle to the 'on' position; if no water comes out, you are ready to proceed.

Plug the drain
2

Plug the drain

1 minute

Place a towel or a sink stopper securely over the drain opening.

Small screws and washers can easily fall down the drain during disassembly. Covering the drain prevents these parts from being lost forever.

Remove the faucet handle
3

Remove the faucet handle

5 minutes

Use a screwdriver to remove the screw hiding under the decorative cap or directly on the handle.

Pry off the decorative cap with a flathead screwdriver if necessary, then loosen the screw to lift the handle off the valve stem.

Do not force the handle if it feels stuck, as you may damage the underlying cartridge or stem.

If the handle is stuck, gently wiggle it back and forth to loosen it from the stem.

Unscrew the packing nut
4

Unscrew the packing nut

5 minutes

Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the packing nut holding the valve stem in place.

Rotate the wrench counter-clockwise to unscrew the nut. Once loose, pull the valve stem assembly straight out of the faucet body.

Wrap a cloth around the wrench jaws to prevent scratching the finish on the faucet nut.

Replace the washer or O-ring
5

Replace the washer or O-ring

10 minutes

Identify the worn washer or O-ring at the base of the stem and remove it.

Take the old part to the hardware store to ensure you purchase the exact size match. Slide the new part onto the stem, ensuring it is seated correctly.

Ensure the replacement part is identical in thickness and diameter to the original.

Apply a light coating of plumber's grease to the new O-ring to help it seal better and last longer.

Reassemble the faucet
6

Reassemble the faucet

5 minutes

Insert the valve stem back into the faucet body and tighten the packing nut.

Reattach the handle, tighten the screw, and replace the decorative cap. Ensure all components are firm but do not over-tighten.

Over-tightening can crack the faucet housing or strip the threads.

Clean any mineral deposits or debris from the threads before reattaching the nut.

Test the repair
7

Test the repair

3 minutes

Turn the water supply back on slowly and check for leaks.

Turn the faucet handle on to let air escape, then turn it off and observe the spout for any dripping. If it still leaks, repeat the process or check for worn valve seats.

If water sprays from the handle area, turn the water off immediately and check that the packing nut is tightened correctly.

Check for leaks at the base of the handle as well as the spout.

Pro Tips

  • ●Always take the old part with you to the hardware store to get a perfect match.
  • ●If the faucet still leaks after replacing the washer, the valve seat may be pitted and need professional attention.
  • ●Use a rag to protect the chrome finish from wrench teeth.
  • ●Keep a record of your faucet brand and model for easier future part identification.