15:49 25-08-2025

How to Fix a Leaky Faucet Yourself and Save Water Fast

Generated by Dall-e

Tired of that dripping tap? Learn how to fix a leaky faucet on your own using simple tools. Save water, money, and time with this easy repair guide.

That steady drip from your faucet might seem harmless, but according to some estimates, even a minor leak can waste dozens of liters of water every day. The good news? You can usually fix it yourself, no plumber required—as long as you know what kind of faucet you’re dealing with and have the right tools on hand.

First Step: Know Your Faucet

There are two main types of faucets you’re likely to find in most homes:

• Compression faucets (also called valve faucets) have two separate handles—one for hot water, the other for cold. Inside, they use a component called a valve stem, which can contain either a rubber washer or ceramic discs.
• Single-lever faucets use just one handle to control both the temperature and flow. These contain a cartridge—either ball-type or ceramic.

Identifying your faucet type will determine how you take it apart and which parts you may need to replace.

What You’ll Need

Before you start, gather the essentials:

• Adjustable wrench or a set of spanners
• Flathead or Phillips screwdriver (depending on your model)
• Replacement washers, O-rings, or cartridges
• PTFE (plumber's) tape
• Cloth and a small container to catch water
• Pliers

If you already know what part is worn out, it’s a good idea to buy a replacement before you begin. Otherwise, disassemble the faucet first to identify what you need, then bring the old part with you to the hardware store.

Always Start By Shutting Off the Water

Before doing anything else, turn off the water supply. Most sinks have shut-off valves located just below. If not, you may need to turn off the main water line. Once the water is off, open the faucet to release any remaining water in the pipes.

Taking It Apart

The disassembly process varies depending on the type of faucet:

• For compression faucets, remove the cap on the handle, unscrew the retaining screw, and lift off the handle. Then, use a wrench to remove the valve stem.
• For single-lever faucets, pry off the decorative cap, unscrew the handle, and remove it. Then, unscrew the retaining nut and pull out the cartridge.

As you take the faucet apart, pay attention to how everything fits together. You’ll need to reassemble it in the same order.

Replacing the Worn Components

In a compression faucet, a worn rubber washer is a common culprit. Replace it with a new one, and also check the O-rings—they may need replacing too. For single-handle models, you’ll usually need to swap out the entire cartridge. Bring the old one to the store if you're unsure which type to buy.

Before putting everything back together, it’s a good idea to clean any lime scale or debris from the parts.

Putting It All Back Together

Reassemble the faucet by reversing the steps you used to take it apart. Once it’s back together, turn the water supply on and check for leaks. If the faucet runs smoothly and stays dry, your repair was a success.

But if it’s still dripping, the issue might be deeper—such as a crack in the faucet body or worn threads. In that case, a full replacement may be necessary.

A Simple Fix That Can Go a Long Way

Repairing a leaky faucet is something most people can handle on their own. In many cases, it’s just a matter of swapping out a washer or cartridge—a task that can take as little as 30 minutes. Take your time, pay attention to how the parts are arranged, and use good-quality replacements. Done right, your faucet should stay drip-free for years to come.