How to Fix a Leaking Kitchen Faucet in 5 Easy Steps

How to fix a leaking kitchen faucet is one of the most common DIY challenges homeowners face—but it doesn’t have to be intimidating. That slow, rhythmic drip may seem like a minor annoyance, but it could be costing you more than you think. From increased water bills to potential mold buildup under your sink, ignoring the issue only makes it worse. Fortunately, with a few tools and the right guidance, you can solve the problem in under 30 minutes.

Fixing a leaking kitchen faucet doesn’t just save you money—it empowers you to take control of your home’s maintenance. In this guide, you’ll learn how to fix a leaking kitchen faucet the easy way, no plumbing experience required.

🔍 Why You Should Know How to Fix a Leaking Kitchen Faucet

A single faucet leak can waste up to 3,000 gallons of water a year, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). That’s enough water to take over 180 showers! Beyond the environmental impact, a leaky faucet can cause:

• Mold and mildew around your sink
• Water damage to cabinets
• Rising utility bills
• Corrosion of plumbing fixtures

Taking action today can prevent costly repairs down the line.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, household leaks can waste nearly 1 trillion gallons of water annually nationwide. Their Fix a Leak Week initiative offers practical advice for identifying and repairing common water leaks around the home. Learning from these expert-backed resources ensures your DIY repairs are not only effective but also environmentally responsible. For detailed insights and national statistics, visit the EPA’s Fix a Leak Week page.

🛠️ Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather these items:

• Adjustable wrench
• Allen wrench (hex key)
• Flathead and Phillips screwdriver
• Plumber’s tape (Teflon tape)
• Replacement washer, O-ring, or cartridge
• Cleaning cloth or towel
• Bowl (to catch any residual water)

If you’re unsure about the internal parts of your faucet, consider bringing them to the hardware store to get an exact match.

🚰 Step-by-Step: How to Fix a Leaking Kitchen Faucet

Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply

Look beneath the sink for two shutoff valves. Turn both clockwise to stop the water. Open the faucet to relieve any pressure and drain remaining water.

Step 2: Plug the Drain

Use a sink stopper or rag to block the drain. This ensures no small parts get lost during disassembly.

Step 3: Disassemble the Faucet

Depending on your faucet type—compression, ball, cartridge, or ceramic disk—you’ll need to:

• Remove decorative caps (if any)
• Unscrew the handle using an Allen wrench
• Loosen and remove nuts, retainers, or screws

Document the disassembly with photos if needed—it’ll help you during reassembly.

Step 4: Inspect and Replace Damaged Parts

Carefully examine the internal components:

• Worn-out washers are common in compression faucets.
• O-rings often wear out in cartridge or ball-type faucets.
• Faulty cartridges may cause inconsistent flow or dripping.

Replace the damaged part with an identical new one, and apply plumber’s tape to threaded areas for a tighter seal.

Step 5: Reassemble and Test

Reinstall all parts in reverse order. Turn on the water supply and test the faucet. If there’s still leakage, double-check the installation or consider replacing the full cartridge assembly.

💡 Bonus Tip: Identify Your Faucet Type

Not all faucets are created equal. Here’s how to spot yours:

• Compression faucet: Separate hot and cold handles, turning requires effort.
• Cartridge faucet: Smooth turn, often uses one handle.
• Ball faucet: Uses a ball bearing and lever handle.
• Ceramic disk faucet: Modern design with a smooth turn.

Knowing your faucet type ensures you buy the correct replacement parts.

📊 Faucet Failure: Real-World Stats

• Faucet-related plumbing complaints rank in the top 5 most common service calls, according to HomeAdvisor.
• The average cost of a plumber visit is $150–$300, while DIY repairs often cost less than $20 in parts.
• Households can reduce water usage by 10% or more by fixing leaks, based on WaterSense data.

🛍 Recommended Products

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

🧼 Maintenance Tips to Prevent Future Leaks

• Clean faucet aerators monthly to remove mineral deposits.
• Don’t overtighten handles—it wears out washers faster.
• Replace parts every 3–5 years, depending on water hardness.