Repair your leaking faucet quickly with this easy 6-step DIY guide. Save water and money with basic tools. No plumber needed—get started now!
Drip. Drip. Drip… Sound Familiar?
That steady drip from your kitchen or bathroom faucet isn’t just annoying—it’s expensive. A single leaking faucet can waste over 3,000 gallons of water per year, spiking your utility bills and putting strain on local water systems. But here’s the good news: fixing it is easier than you think.
With a few basic tools and a bit of patience, you can repair a leaking faucet in under an hour—no plumber required. In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to do it, step-by-step.
Why You Should Fix That Leaky Faucet ASAP
Leaking Faucet → Causes → Water Waste + Pipe Damage
Homeowner → Action Required → Timely Faucet Repair
Ignoring a dripping tap might feel harmless, but here’s why you shouldn’t wait:
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Wasted water = higher utility bills
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Unchecked leaks can lead to mold or structural damage
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Stagnant water around faucets can breed bacteria
And here’s the kicker: most faucet leaks stem from a worn-out washer or O-ring, which costs less than a cup of coffee to replace.
What You’ll Need Before You Start
To avoid mid-repair scrambling, gather the following:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Adjustable wrench | Loosen faucet nuts |
| Flathead/Phillips screwdriver | Remove decorative elements and handles |
| Penetrating oil | Loosen stuck parts |
| Replacement O-rings/washers | Fix the actual source of the leak |
| Old towels + bucket | Catch residual water and protect surfaces |
💡 Pro Tip: Not sure what size washer you need? Bring the old one to your local hardware store for a match or grab a multi-size O-ring kit for backups.
Step-by-Step: Fixing a Leaking Faucet
Leaking Faucet → Fixed By → Washer/O-ring Replacement
Step 1: Shut Off the Water Supply
Locate your sink’s shut-off valves under the cabinet. Turn them clockwise to stop water flow. Also, shut off the main valve as a backup if needed. Place an old towel and a bucket underneath to catch any remaining water in the pipes.
Step 2: Remove Decorative Parts
Use a flathead screwdriver to pop off any decorative caps from the faucet handle. Unscrew the handle carefully. If it’s stuck, apply penetrating oil and wait a few minutes. Keep all removed parts organized on a towel for easy reassembly.
Step 3: Loosen the Packing Nut
Use an adjustable wrench to unscrew the packing nut and expose the faucet stem. Depending on your faucet type, pull the stem straight out or twist to remove it. Inspect for visible corrosion or wear.
Step 4: Inspect & Replace the Washer or O-Ring
Check the valve seat and O-ring. If the washer or ring appears brittle, cracked, or loose, replace it. Make sure your new parts match the size and shape—a cone washer won’t fit where a flat one is needed.
Step 5: Reassemble the Faucet
Reverse the disassembly process:
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Insert the new washer or O-ring
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Reattach the stem
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Tighten the packing nut
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Replace the handle and decorative caps
Step 6: Turn On Water & Test
Turn your faucet on and off a few times. Listen closely and observe:
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No drip = ✅ success
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Still dripping = 🔁 check parts or valve seat for corrosion
Bonus Troubleshooting Tips
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If leaks persist, inspect the valve seat—it may need resurfacing or replacement
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Check for loose mounting nuts or degraded stem threads
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Some faucet types (cartridge, ceramic disk) may need specific repair kits
If you’re stumped, don’t force it—call a licensed plumber to avoid damaging internal components.
FAQs – How to Fix a Leaking Faucet
What causes a faucet to drip?
A worn-out washer, O-ring, or corroded valve seat is the most common reason faucets leak.
Can I fix a leaking faucet myself?
Yes. With basic tools, you can fix most faucet leaks in under an hour by replacing the washer or O-ring.
What tools do I need to stop a leaking tap?
You’ll need a wrench, screwdriver, penetrating oil, and replacement washers or O-rings.
How do I know if the valve seat is damaged?
If leaks persist after replacing washers, your valve seat may be corroded. A plumber can inspect or resurface it.
Should I call a plumber for a leaky faucet?
If DIY fixes fail or parts are rusted/stuck, it’s best to call a professional to avoid further damage.
🔗 Additional Resources
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EPA WaterSense: How Much Water You Waste
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Anta Plumbing: Faucet Replacement & Repair Toronto
