How To Fix A Dripping Faucet?
QUICK ANSWER
Shut off water at the supply valves under the sink. Identify your faucet type (cartridge, compression, ball, ceramic disc). Disassemble and replace the worn part (usually the cartridge or washer). Most repairs cost 5 to 25 dollars in parts. Test for leaks before declaring it fixed.
Dripping faucets waste significant water (a leak of one drop per second adds up to about 3,000 gallons per year) and the constant dripping is annoying. Most faucet drips are simple cartridge or washer replacements taking 30 to 60 minutes with basic tools. Knowing your faucet type determines the parts and steps needed. Here is the approach for the four most common faucet types plus what to do when DIY repair isn't worth it.
What kind of faucet do you have?
Four main types with different repairs. Compression: two separate handles each with a stem and rubber washer; oldest design; leaks when washers wear. Cartridge: single or double handles with a removable cartridge; most common modern design. Ball-type: single handle with a metal ball mechanism (common Delta kitchen); leaks from worn seals or springs. Ceramic disc: single handle with ceramic discs; modern high-end; leaks from worn seals.
How do you fix compression and cartridge faucets?
Most common types. Shut off water at the supply valves under the sink (turn clockwise until tight); turn on the faucet to release pressure. For compression: remove the handle (decorative cap covers screws on some models); unscrew the stem; replace the rubber washer at the bottom; reassemble. Compression washers cost cents; Danco assortments include all common sizes. For cartridge faucets: remove the handle; remove any retaining clip holding the cartridge; pull the cartridge straight up with pliers; replace with matching cartridge; reassemble. Cartridges cost 10 to 30 dollars and are faucet-brand and model-specific. Bring the old cartridge to the hardware store for matching. Total time: 30 to 60 minutes for either type.
How do you fix ball and ceramic disc faucets?
More complex but still DIY-able. Ball-type (Delta primarily): shut off water; remove handle (Allen wrench typically); unscrew the cap; remove the ball; replace the seats and springs underneath (sold as a kit, 10 to 20 dollars). Bring the old parts when buying; manufacturer matters. Ceramic disc faucets: shut off water; remove handle (Allen wrench); remove the cartridge or disc assembly; replace the seals or the entire ceramic disc cartridge (40 to 80 dollars typically). Disc cartridges last 10+ years usually; if a relatively new disc faucet is dripping, the seals are usually the issue not the disc. Manufacturer instruction sheets help significantly; download from the manufacturer's website using the model number found stamped on the faucet.
When is replacement better than repair?
Sometimes replacement makes more sense than repair. Cartridge replacement is 30 dollars in parts and an hour of work; a quality replacement faucet is 80 to 250 dollars and 1 to 2 hours installation. Replace when: faucet is over 10 to 15 years old; multiple problems; corroded finish; parts no longer made; you want new features. Cheap faucets (under 80 dollars) aren't worth repairing; quality faucets (Moen, Delta, Kohler) are designed for serviceability.
Fixing dripping faucets is usually a straightforward DIY project with significant water savings. Identify the faucet type, get the right replacement parts (cartridge, washers, seals), and follow the disassembly-reassembly sequence in reverse. Most repairs take 30 to 60 minutes and cost 5 to 25 dollars in parts. For older faucets with multiple issues, replacement may be more economical than repair. Manufacturer websites with model numbers provide specific repair instructions; the faucet brand and model number drive the right approach.
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