A leaky kitchen faucet is more than just an annoying sound—it can waste hundreds of gallons of water and increase your monthly utility bills. Fortunately, fixing a dripping faucet is a straightforward DIY project that you can handle in less than an hour.
Here is a step-by-step guide to repairing a standard compression or cartridge faucet before calling for an emergency service.
- Turn Off the Water Supply
Before grabbing your tools, you must cut off the water. Look underneath your kitchen sink for the shut-off valves connected to the hot and cold water lines. Turn them clockwise until they are tightly closed. Then, open the faucet handles to drain any remaining water out of the pipes. - Disassemble the Faucet Handles
Use a flathead screwdriver to gently pry off the decorative caps on top of the faucet handles (usually marked ‘H’ and ‘C’). Once removed, use a Phillips screwdriver to loosen the screws hidden underneath. Carefully pull the handles straight up to remove them and expose the internal mechanism. - Inspect the Cartridge or Stem
Depending on your faucet model, you will see a brass or plastic cartridge secured by a retaining nut. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the nut and pull the cartridge out. Check the rubber O-rings and washers at the bottom. If they look cracked, flattened, or worn out, this is exactly what is causing your leak. - Replace the Worn Components and Reassemble
Take the old cartridge or washers to your local hardware store to find an exact match. Install the new rubber parts, insert the cartridge back into the faucet body, and tighten the retaining nut securely. Reattach the handles, turn the under-sink water valves back on, and test your faucet for any leaks.