A dripping faucet may seem like a small problem, but it can waste gallons of water and increase your water bill. The good news is that most faucet leaks can be fixed at home with basic tools and a little time.
In this guide, you’ll learn why faucets drip and simple DIY fixes to stop the leak.
Common Faucet Dripping Problems
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Faucet drips even when turned off
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Leak from faucet handle
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Water pressure reduced
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Squeaking or stiff handle
Why Faucet Keeps Dripping
Some common reasons include:
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Worn-out washer or O-ring
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Loose faucet parts
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Corroded valve seat
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Old cartridge (for cartridge faucets)
Fix 1: Turn Off Water Supply
Safety first.
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Turn off water valves under sink
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Open faucet to release pressure
Fix 2: Check and Replace Washer
Most common fix.
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Remove faucet handle
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Replace worn washer with new one
Fix 3: Replace O-Ring
Stops leaks around handle.
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Inspect O-ring
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Replace if damaged
Fix 4: Tighten Loose Parts
Loose components cause dripping.
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Tighten nuts and screws gently
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Avoid over-tightening
Fix 5: Replace Faucet Cartridge
For modern faucets.
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Remove old cartridge
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Install matching replacement
Safety Tips
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Keep a towel handy
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Take pictures before disassembly
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Don’t force stuck parts
When to Call a Plumber
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Faucet continues leaking
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Pipe damage found
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Unsure about disassembly
