How to Fix a Dripping Faucet
A drip is usually a worn-out internal part, not a reason to replace the whole faucet. Cheaper fix than you'd think.
Before you start: this is general information, not a diagnosis of your specific situation. Shut off water where instructed, take your time, and stop if anything looks different than described here. If you're not comfortable at any point, stop and call us — that's what we're here for.
- 1Turn off the shutoff valves under the sink, then open the faucet to release pressure and confirm the water's off.
- 2Figure out your faucet type — compression (separate hot/cold handles, needs real force to shut off) uses washers; cartridge, ball, or ceramic disc faucets (single handle, smooth turn) use a different internal part entirely.
- 3Remove the handle (usually one screw under a decorative cap) to expose the stem or cartridge.
- 4Compression faucets: unscrew the stem and replace the small rubber washer at the bottom. Cartridge/ball/disc faucets: pull the cartridge or assembly straight out and take it to the hardware store to match exactly — these aren't universal.
- 5Reassemble in reverse order, turn the water back on slowly, and check the handle operation and for drips at the base.
If you can't tell what type of faucet you have, or the parts don't look like what's described here, snap a photo and bring it to the hardware store before buying anything — or just call us. Guessing wrong on the part is the most common reason this job takes two trips instead of one.
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If this isn't a DIY day, call, text, or book online — same flat-rate honesty either way.