How to Stop a Dripping Faucet: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide

If you're wondering how to stop a dripping faucet, start by shutting off the water and checking the parts inside the faucet. Many leaks are caused by a worn washer, O-ring, or cartridge that can be replaced with basic hand tools. Fixing a dripping faucet early can save thousands of gallons of water each year and help keep your water bill under control.

If you'd rather leave the repair to a professional, Greenwell's licensed plumbers are ready to help. Call (502) 205-2482 or schedule service online.

Common Causes of a Leaking Faucet

A faucet leaking from the spout or handle usually points to a worn part inside the fixture. Finding the cause first makes the repair much easier.

• Worn-Out O-Ring: The O-ring seals the handle stem. As it wears out, water can leak around the handle.
• Corroded Valve Seat: Hard water minerals can wear away the valve seat where the faucet and spout connect.
• Damaged Washer: Every time the faucet is turned on and off, the washer rubs against other parts. Over time it wears down and allows water to drip.
• Loose Parts: Packing nuts and other internal hardware can loosen through years of normal use.

If you have a kitchen faucet leak, these are some of the first areas to inspect before replacing the entire fixture.

Parts of a Faucet

Most faucets contain the same basic parts, even though the appearance may vary by manufacturer.

• Decorative button: Covers the screw that holds the handle in place.
• Top screw: Secures the faucet handle.
• Faucet handle: Opens and closes the water flow.
• Top stem: Transfers movement from the handle to the valve assembly.
• Six-sided packing nut: Holds the stem securely inside the faucet body.
• Nylon washer: Reduces friction between moving parts.
• Bottom stem: Connects the valve components inside the faucet.
• Plastic O-ring: Seals the stem to help stop leaks.
• Rubber washer: Creates the seal that stops water flow.
• Bottom screw: Holds the washer in place.
• Aerator: Controls water flow and catches small debris.
• Faucet body: Houses all of the working parts.

Essential Tools for Fixing a Faucet Leak

Before you begin, gather everything you'll need.

• Allen wrench
• Adjustable wrench
• Flathead screwdriver
• Phillips screwdriver
• Replacement washers
• Replacement O-rings
• Silicone plumber's grease
• Clean towel

Steps to Fix a Dripping Faucet Safely

Once you have your tools ready, follow these steps to repair the leak safely.

Step 1: Shut Off the Water Supply

Locate the under sink shutoff valve beneath the sink and turn it clockwise until the water stops. Open the faucet to drain any remaining water before starting the repair.

All faucets throughout your house are repaired the same way, so these steps also apply if you're dealing with your bathroom faucet leaking as well.

Step 2: Disassemble the Faucet Handles

Pry off the decorative button, remove the top screw, and lift the handle away from the faucet. This gives you access to the cartridge or stem assembly inside.

Step 3: Inspect and Replace Damaged Parts

Remove the stem and inspect the rubber washer, plastic O-ring, and cartridge. Replace worn parts with matching replacements and apply a light coating of plumber's grease before putting everything back together.

This is also the time to change faucet washers, replace faucet cartridges, or inspect a corroded valve seat if any of those parts show visible damage.

Step 4: Reassemble and Test the Faucet

Reassemble the faucet in the reverse order, then slowly turn the water back on. Check around the handle and spout for leaks.

If the faucet's dripping has stopped, you've successfully learned how to stop a dripping faucet without replacing the fixture.

When Should You Skip DIY and Call a Licensed Plumber?

Some faucet repairs go beyond replacing a washer or O-ring. If the leak continues after replacing the damaged parts, if the faucet is badly corroded, or if the fixture cannot be taken apart without causing damage, it's time to call a professional.

Our plumbers will recommend a plumbing fixture installation if repairing the faucet is no longer the best option.

If a leak cannot be stopped by shutting off the fixture or water is causing damage inside your home, contact Greenwell for emergency plumbing service right away.

Need faucet leak repair from a professional plumber in Louisville or a licensed plumber in Albany, IN?

Call (502) 205-2482 or schedule service online and our team will be happy to help.