How to Fix a Leaky Faucet (without the headache)

Written By Lisa Emanuel

That drip... drip... drip isn’t just annoying—it’s costing you.

A leaky faucet might not seem urgent until it keeps you up at night or starts bumping your water bill. The good news? You don’t need to be a plumber (or even particularly handy) to fix it.

If you’ve got 30 minutes, a wrench, and a little curiosity, here’s how to shut that drip down for good.

What You’ll Need

Basic Tools:

  • Adjustable wrench

  • Phillips and flathead screwdriver

  • Pliers

  • Allen wrench (for some faucets)

Replacement Parts (Depends on faucet type):

  • Washer or O-ring (for compression faucets)

  • New cartridge (for cartridge faucets)

  • Plumber’s grease (optional, but smart)

👉 Not sure what kind of faucet you have? No worries—once you take it apart, it’ll make itself known.

Step-by-Step: How to Fix a Leaky Faucet

Step 1: Turn Off the Water

Before you do anything, shut off the water using the valves under the sink. Turn the faucet on to let any leftover water drain out.

Step 2: Remove the Handle

  • Pop off the handle cap (if there is one) with a screwdriver.

  • Use a screwdriver or Allen wrench to loosen the handle screw.

  • Pull off the handle to access the inside.

Step 3: Take Out the Old Parts

  • Unscrew the packing nut (the big nut under the handle) with a wrench.

  • Gently remove the stem or cartridge (depends on your faucet type).

  • Inspect the washer or O-ring—if it’s worn or cracked, that’s likely your culprit

  • If you have a cartridge faucet, you’ll be replacing the whole thing.

Step 4: Replace the Worn Parts

  • Compression faucet? Swap out the old washer and O-ring for new ones.

  • Cartridge faucet? Replace the whole cartridge.

  • Pro tip: Add a little plumber’s grease to the new parts to help them seal properly.

If you’re unsure what to buy, take the old part to the hardware store and match it up.

Step 5: Put Everything Back Together

  • Pop in the new washer, O-ring, or cartridge.

  • Tighten the packing nut, but don’t overdo it.

  • Put the handle back on and screw it in place.

Step 6: Turn the Water Back On & Test

  • Slowly turn the water back on and check for leaks.

  • No drip? You just earned yourself a high-five 🙌

When to Call a Pro

If the faucet still leaks after you’ve replaced parts, the issue might be:

  • Corrosion inside the faucet body

  • A bad valve seat

  • Or plumbing problems behind the wall

That’s when it’s smart to call someone like us. We fix small leaks, weird noises, and annoying drips before they become bigger headaches.

👋 Need Help?

Not into plumbing projects? No judgment. Emanuel Homes handles all the small repairs that make a big difference—leaks included. Still leaking? Send us your to-do list. We’ll handle it.

Lisa Emanuel
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