Stop Your Dripping Faucet: How to Fix Leaking Faucet in Kitchen

Can you stop a dripping faucet yourself? Yes, in most cases, you can fix a leaking faucet in your kitchen with a few basic tools and some patience. Who is this guide for? It’s for homeowners and renters looking to save money on plumbing bills and reduce water waste by tackling common kitchen faucet leaks.

A persistent drip, drip, drip from your kitchen faucet is more than just an annoyance; it’s a silent drain on your water bill and a wasted resource. Fortunately, most kitchen faucet leaks stem from simple, fixable issues. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of diagnosing and repairing your leaky kitchen tap, empowering you to perform a DIY faucet repair and reclaim your peace and quiet. We’ll cover everything from identifying the type of faucet you have to the specific parts that might be causing the problem.

Why Your Kitchen Faucet is Leaking

Before you can fix a leaky faucet, you need to know why it’s leaking. The most common culprits are worn-out seals, washers, or cartridges. Over time, these parts degrade due to constant use and mineral deposits from water.

Common Causes of Kitchen Faucet Leaks

Worn Washers: These rubber or neoprene rings create a seal within the faucet to stop water flow. When they wear down, they can no longer seal effectively, leading to drips. This is often the primary reason for a dripping faucet repair.
Damaged O-Rings: Similar to washers, O-rings are small, circular seals that prevent water from leaking around the spout or handles. If an O-ring is cracked or worn, it will cause a leak.
Faulty Cartridge: Many modern faucets use a cartridge system that controls water flow and temperature. If the cartridge is damaged or mineralized, it can cause leaks, often from the handle. A leaky faucet cartridge is a frequent issue.
Corroded Valve Seat: The valve seat is the part of the faucet where the washer presses against to stop water. If it becomes corroded or roughened, it won’t create a tight seal, even with a new washer.
Loose Parts: Sometimes, a leak is as simple as a part that has come loose. Over time, vibrations can loosen nuts or screws, creating gaps for water to escape.

Getting Started: Tools and Preparation

Before you embark on your kitchen sink tap repair, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the job smoother.

Essential Tools for Faucet Repair

Adjustable Wrench: For loosening and tightening various nuts and bolts.
Phillips and Flathead Screwdrivers: To remove handle screws and other components.
Pliers (e.g., Slip-joint or Needle-nose): For gripping and removing small parts.
Basin Wrench: A specialized tool for reaching nuts in tight spaces under the sink, especially useful for a leaky kitchen tap replacement.
Plumber’s Grease or Silicone Grease: To lubricate new parts and make reassembly easier.
Clean Rags or Towels: To catch drips and protect surfaces.
Bucket: To collect any residual water.
Safety Glasses: To protect your eyes from debris.
Flashlight: To see clearly in the often-dim spaces under the sink.
Replacement Parts: Washers, O-rings, or a new cartridge, depending on your faucet type and the cause of the leak.

Turning Off the Water Supply

This is the most crucial step. You must shut off the water supply to the faucet before beginning any repairs.

Locate Shut-Off Valves: Look under your kitchen sink for two small valves, usually made of brass or plastic, connected to the water lines leading to your faucet. One is for hot water, and the other for cold.
Turn the Valves Off: Turn the handles of both valves clockwise until they are firmly closed.
Test: Turn on the faucet to ensure the water is completely shut off. A few drops might come out, but then it should stop. If water continues to flow, you may need to shut off the main water supply to your house.

Identifying Your Faucet Type

The repair process varies slightly depending on the type of faucet you have. Knowing your faucet type is key to a successful DIY faucet repair.

Common Kitchen Faucet Types

Compression Faucets: These are older, traditional faucets with separate hot and cold handles that you tighten to stop water flow. They typically use rubber washers to create a seal.
Cartridge Faucets: These have either one or two handles and use a self-contained cartridge that controls water flow. They are common in many modern kitchens. You might need a leaky faucet cartridge replacement for these.
Ball Faucets: Characterized by a single handle that moves over a rounded cap, these faucets use a metal or plastic ball with chambers that align to control water flow.
Ceramic Disc Faucets: These are the most durable and feature two ceramic discs that slide against each other to control water. They rarely leak, but when they do, it often requires replacing the entire disc assembly.

Repairing Compression Faucets

Compression faucets are relatively simple to repair. The most common issue is a worn-out washer.

Steps for Compression Faucet Repair

Remove the Handle: Pry off the decorative cap on the handle (if present) with a flathead screwdriver. Then, unscrew the handle screw and lift the handle off.
Remove the Packing Nut: Use an adjustable wrench to carefully unscrew the packing nut located below the handle.
Unscrew the Stem: Once the packing nut is removed, you should be able to unscrew the entire stem assembly by turning it counter-clockwise with your wrench.
Replace the Washer: At the bottom of the stem, you’ll find a small brass screw holding a rubber washer in place. Unscrew this screw, remove the old washer, and replace it with a new one of the same size. This is the classic faucet washer replacement.
Inspect and Replace O-Ring: While the stem is out, check the O-ring(s) around the stem. If they look worn or cracked, carefully remove them and install new ones. Apply a bit of plumber’s grease to the new O-rings.
Clean the Valve Seat: Look down into the faucet body where the stem was. You’ll see a brass valve seat. If it feels rough or you see debris, you can try cleaning it with a soft cloth or a special valve seat dressing tool. If it’s corroded, it might need replacement, which is a more advanced plumbing repair kitchen.
Reassemble: Reinsert the stem, tighten the packing nut (don’t overtighten), reattach the handle, and screw the handle back on.
Turn Water Back On: Slowly turn the shut-off valves back on. Test the faucet for leaks. If it still drips, you might have a damaged valve seat or the wrong size washer.

Repairing Cartridge Faucets

Cartridge faucets are prevalent, and a leaky faucet cartridge is a common cause of drips.

Steps for Cartridge Faucet Repair

Remove the Handle: Look for a small set screw on the side or back of the handle, usually hidden under a decorative cap or cover. Unscrew this set screw with an Allen wrench or screwdriver. Then, lift the handle off.
Remove the Retaining Clip or Nut: Depending on your faucet model, you might see a plastic or metal retaining clip holding the cartridge in place, or a decorative bonnet nut. If it’s a clip, use pliers to pull it straight up. If it’s a nut, use an adjustable wrench to unscrew it.
Pull Out the Cartridge: With the clip or nut removed, you should be able to pull the cartridge straight up and out. You might need to gently twist it or use pliers to get a grip. Keep track of the cartridge’s orientation.
Replace the Cartridge: Take the old cartridge to a hardware store to find an exact match. Install the new cartridge, ensuring it’s seated correctly and aligned with any notches.
Reassemble: Replace the retaining clip or bonnet nut, then reattach the handle and tighten the set screw.
Turn Water Back On: Slowly open the shut-off valves and test for leaks. This process is a key part of how to stop a faucet drip in many homes.

Repairing Ball Faucets

Ball faucets have a unique mechanism that can sometimes be tricky to fix.

Steps for Ball Faucet Repair

Remove the Handle: Loosen the set screw on the side of the handle, then lift the handle off.
Remove the Cap and Collar: Unscrew the decorative cap and the collar beneath it.
Lift Out the Ball: You should see a plastic or metal ball. Lift it out carefully. Note the small notch on the ball, which fits into a slot in the faucet body.
Replace Springs and Seats: Under the ball, you’ll find two rubber seats and springs. These are the most common failure points. Use needle-nose pliers to carefully remove the old seats and springs. Install new ones, ensuring the spring is at the bottom. This is another common area for a faucet washer replacement, though technically they are seats.
Inspect the Ball: Check the ball for any damage or mineral buildup. Clean it or replace it if necessary.
Reassemble: Place the ball back in, aligning its notch. Replace the collar and cap, and screw them on securely. Reattach the handle and tighten the set screw.
Turn Water Back On: Slowly turn the shut-off valves back on and check for leaks.

Repairing Ceramic Disc Faucets

Ceramic disc faucets are durable but require a different approach when they leak.

Steps for Ceramic Disc Faucet Repair

Remove the Handle: Similar to other faucets, find and loosen the set screw, then lift the handle off.
Remove the Escutcheon Cap: Unscrew the decorative cap or cover that conceals the disc assembly.
Lift Out the Disc Cylinder: You will see a cylinder containing the ceramic discs. Carefully lift this entire cylinder out.
Inspect Seals: The issue might be with the rubber seals at the bottom of the cylinder. Carefully remove these seals and replace them with new ones.
Clean or Replace Cylinder: If the seals look fine, the problem might be with the ceramic discs themselves. You can try cleaning them gently. However, it’s often more effective to replace the entire disc cylinder assembly.
Reassemble: Place the new or cleaned cylinder back into the faucet body, ensuring it’s properly seated. Replace the escutcheon cap and the handle.
Turn Water Back On: Open the shut-off valves and check for leaks.

Addressing Specific Leak Locations

Knowing where the leak is coming from can help pinpoint the problem and the required repair.

Leaks from the Spout

A constant drip from the spout is the most classic sign of a worn washer or a faulty cartridge/disc. The steps outlined above for each faucet type address spout leaks directly. This is the primary goal of how to stop a faucet drip.

Leaks from the Handle

If water is leaking from around the base of the handle, it usually indicates a problem with the O-ring or the packing nut.

Compression Faucets: The O-ring around the stem needs replacement. Ensure the packing nut is snug but not overtightened.
Cartridge/Ball/Disc Faucets: The O-rings around the cartridge or valve stem are likely the issue. Carefully remove and replace them, lubricating the new ones.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

While many faucet leaks are DIY-friendly, there are times when it’s best to call a professional.

Signs You Need Professional Help

You Can’t Identify the Faucet Type: If you’re unsure what kind of faucet you have or can’t find replacement parts.
Corroded or Damaged Faucet Body: If the faucet body itself is corroded or cracked, it might be beyond simple repair.
Stuck Parts: If parts are seized and you risk damaging the faucet or pipes by forcing them.
Persistent Leaks: If you’ve tried the above steps and the faucet still leaks, there might be a more complex issue.
Lack of Confidence: If you’re not comfortable working with plumbing, it’s better to err on the side of caution and call an expert for your plumbing repair kitchen.

Preventing Future Faucet Leaks

Once you’ve successfully repaired your leaky faucet, take steps to prevent future issues.

Maintenance Tips

Regular Cleaning: Clean your faucet regularly with mild soap and water to prevent mineral buildup.
Avoid Harsh Cleaners: Harsh chemicals can damage seals and O-rings.
Don’t Overtighten: When turning off the faucet, don’t force the handles beyond what’s necessary to stop the water flow. This can damage the washers and valve seats.
Water Softener: If you have hard water, consider installing a water softener to reduce mineral deposits.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Here are some common problems you might encounter and how to address them.

Problem: The faucet still drips after replacing the washer.

Possible Cause: The valve seat is corroded or damaged.
Solution: Try cleaning the valve seat with a valve seat dressing tool, or replace the valve seat if possible. If it’s a cartridge faucet, the new cartridge might be faulty, or you might have the wrong replacement.

Problem: Water leaks from under the handle after repair.

Possible Cause: The O-ring is damaged, or the packing nut isn’t tight enough.
Solution: Ensure the O-ring is correctly seated and lubricated. Tighten the packing nut slightly. If the leak persists, the O-ring might be the wrong size or the stem itself could be damaged.

Problem: I can’t get the handle off.

Possible Cause: The set screw is hidden or corroded.
Solution: Carefully inspect all sides of the handle base for a hidden set screw. If it’s corroded, try applying a penetrating oil and letting it sit for a while.

Problem: I can’t find the right replacement part.

Possible Cause: Faucet manufacturers use proprietary parts, and identifying the exact model can be difficult.
Solution: Take photos of your faucet and the old parts to your local hardware store or plumbing supply store. Many have knowledgeable staff who can help identify parts. You might also need to look for a brand name or model number on the faucet itself.

Faucet Repair Comparison Table

Here’s a quick reference to common repairs:

Faucet Type	Common Leak Cause	Primary Repair Part(s)	Key Tool(s)
Compression	Worn Washer	Washer, O-ring	Adjustable wrench, Screwdriver
Cartridge	Leaky Cartridge	Cartridge, O-rings	Allen wrench, Pliers
Ball	Worn Seats and Springs	Seats, Springs, Ball	Pliers, Screwdriver
Ceramic Disc	Worn Seals, Damaged Discs	Seals, Disc Cylinder	Screwdriver, Pliers

FAQ: Your Dripping Faucet Questions Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions about fixing a leaky kitchen tap:

Q1: How much water does a dripping faucet waste?
A1: A single drip per second can waste over 3,000 gallons of water per year. A constant stream can waste much, much more. Fixing a dripping faucet is great for water conservation.

Q2: Can I fix a leaky faucet without turning off the water?
A2: It is strongly advised against attempting any DIY faucet repair without shutting off the water supply. You risk flooding your kitchen and causing water damage.

Q3: How do I know which size washer or cartridge to buy?
A3: The best way is to take the old part with you to the hardware store. If you can identify the brand and model of your faucet, you can often find the correct parts online or at specialized stores.

Q4: What is a “water hammer” and how is it related to faucet leaks?
A4: Water hammer is a shockwave that occurs when water flow is suddenly stopped, creating a banging noise. While not directly causing a slow drip, severe water hammer can over time loosen connections or damage internal faucet components, leading to leaks.

Q5: I have a leak under my sink where the water lines connect to the faucet. Is this a faucet repair?
A5: This is typically a connection issue rather than a faucet problem. You’ll need to check the tightness of the supply line nuts connecting to the faucet tails. This is part of plumbing repair kitchen but usually simpler than internal faucet repairs.

Q6: Is it cheaper to fix a faucet myself or hire a plumber?
A6: For simple repairs like replacing a washer or O-ring, doing it yourself is significantly cheaper. You only pay for the small parts. Hiring a plumber will involve their labor costs, which can be substantial for a minor repair.

Q7: My faucet makes a squealing noise when I turn it on. What could be the problem?
A7: A squealing or high-pitched noise often indicates a worn or damaged washer or O-ring vibrating against the valve seat or stem. Replacing these parts usually resolves the noise and the associated leak.

Q8: Can I use Teflon tape on faucet threads?
A8: Teflon tape (PTFE tape) is used on threaded pipe connections to create a watertight seal. For internal faucet repairs, it’s not typically used. Plumber’s grease or silicone grease is used on O-rings and cartridges to help them seal and operate smoothly.

By following these steps, you can confidently tackle most dripping faucet repair jobs in your kitchen. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also contribute to water conservation, one drip at a time. Remember to work carefully, be patient, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you’re unsure.