How to Fix a Leaky Faucet (Step-by-Step)

Introduction: Why Fixing a Leaky Faucet Matters

That steady drip... drip... drip isn't just an annoyance—it’s costing you money and wasting clean water. According to the EPA, a single leaky faucet can waste over 3,000 gallons of water each year. Fortunately, many faucet leaks are simple enough to fix with a few tools and a little patience.

Whether it’s in your kitchen, bathroom, or utility room, this guide will walk you through how to fix a leaky faucet step-by-step—without the need for a plumber. And if you do need help, Top Flow Plumbing's licensed experts are just a call away.

Common Causes of a Leaky Faucet

• Worn washers or O-rings – Rubber seals can wear out from friction and pressure.
  
  
• Damaged cartridge – In cartridge-style faucets, the cartridge may crack or fail.
  
  
• Corroded valve seat – Especially in older faucets, this metal component may deteriorate.
  
  
• Loose parts – Screws or components can shift, especially with frequent use.
  
  

Understanding your faucet type will help pinpoint the issue and guide your repair.

Step 1: Identify Your Faucet Type

• Cartridge faucets – Found in most modern bathrooms/kitchens; easy to repair.
  
  
• Ball-type faucets – Common in single-handle designs; more parts involved.
  
  
• Ceramic disk faucets – Durable and high-end; require specific seals.
  
  
• Compression faucets – Separate hot/cold handles; most common in older homes.
  
  

Tip: If you’re unsure, search your faucet brand/model online or snap a photo before shopping for parts.

Step 2: Gather Your Tools

• Adjustable wrench
  
  
• Flat-head and Phillips screwdrivers
  
  
• Hex key (Allen wrench)
  
  
• Replacement parts (washer, O-ring, or cartridge)
  
  
• Plumber’s grease
  
  
• Towels and a bowl (to catch water)
  
  
• White vinegar and brush (for cleaning corrosion)
  
  

Don't forget to plug the drain! A small screw lost down the sink can turn an easy job into a headache.

Step 3: Turn Off the Water Supply

Look under your sink for two valves—one for hot, one for cold. Turn both clockwise to shut off the water. If your faucet doesn’t have individual shut-offs, turn off the water main to your home.

Once off, turn the faucet on to release any remaining pressure.

Step 4: Remove the Faucet Handle

The removal process depends on your faucet:

• Screw-on handles: Remove the top cap and unscrew.
  
  
• Hex-key handles: Look for a small set screw on the side or back.
  
  
• Ball or cartridge faucets: You’ll need to remove the decorative collar or faceplate first.
  
  

Set each part aside in the order you removed it to make reassembly easier.

Step 5: Inspect and Replace the Faulty Component

• Cartridge faucet: Pull out the old cartridge and match it at the store.
  
  
• Ball faucet: Use a repair kit to replace the cam, ball, and springs.
  
  
• Compression faucet: Replace the washer and O-ring at the stem's base.
  
  
• Ceramic disk faucet: Check and replace the rubber seals or the entire cartridge if needed.
  
  

While the faucet is open, clean any grime or mineral deposits using vinegar and a soft brush.

Step 6: Reassemble and Test

Reverse your disassembly steps to reattach the handle and any housing. Turn the water valves back on slowly to avoid pressure damage. Run hot and cold water for 1–2 minutes to flush out air or debris. Check for leaks around the handle and spout.

Bonus Tip: Don’t Overlook the Aerator

Even after repairing the main leak, many homeowners still experience reduced or erratic water flow. In many cases, this is due to a clogged faucet aerator—the small screen at the tip of the faucet spout that regulates flow and prevents splashing.

Here’s how to clean it:

1. Unscrew the aerator counterclockwise with your hand or a pair of pliers (wrap the jaws in a cloth to avoid scratching the finish).
   
   
2. Disassemble the parts—screen, housing, and washers.
   
   
3. Soak in vinegar for 15–30 minutes to dissolve mineral deposits.
   
   
4. Scrub gently with a toothbrush or soft brush, rinse, and reassemble.
   
   
5. Reattach to the faucet and run water to test flow.
   
   

Preventing Future Faucet Leaks

Fixing a leak is only half the battle—preventing it from happening again is just as important. Here are a few preventative habits that go a long way:

• Turn handles gently rather than over-tightening when shutting off water.
  
  
• Clean your faucet regularly to prevent mineral buildup.
  
  
• Install a water softener if you live in an area with hard water (common in parts of Texas).
  
  
• Inspect for leaks seasonally, especially in guest bathrooms or secondary sinks you don’t use often.
  
  

Keeping up with these simple habits can extend the life of your faucets and reduce the need for future repairs. You can also book a routine maintenance visit with Top Flow Plumbing to catch small issues before they turn into major headaches.

When to Call a Plumber

You’ve followed every step, but the leak is still there—or worse. That’s when it’s time to bring in the pros. Call Top Flow Plumbing if:

• You suspect a hidden pipe issue
  
  
• You notice water pooling under your sink
  
  
• Your shut-off valves are corroded or stuck
  
  
• You want to upgrade your faucet entirely
  
  

Our team proudly serves Frisco, Plano, McKinney, and the entire North Texas area.

Conclusion: A Quick Fix That Saves You in the Long Run

Fixing a leaky faucet is a simple task that pays off—by reducing your water bill, protecting your home from damage, and extending the life of your plumbing. Whether you’re a confident DIYer or just trying to stop that annoying drip, this repair is well within reach.

If you’re not comfortable making the repair yourself or suspect a deeper issue, schedule a plumbing inspection with Top Flow today. Our licensed pros will get your home back in top flow—fast.

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