Why You Shouldn't Ignore a Dripping Faucet
A dripping faucet might seem like a minor annoyance, but even a slow drip can waste a surprising amount of water over time. The good news? Most leaky faucets are fixable without calling a plumber — and you likely already have the tools you need.
This guide walks you through fixing the most common type: a compression faucet, found in many older homes. The same principles apply to cartridge and ceramic disc faucets with slight variations.
What You'll Need
- Adjustable wrench or spanner
- Phillips and flathead screwdrivers
- Replacement washers and O-rings (available at any hardware store)
- Plumber's grease
- A small towel or cloth
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
Before you touch anything, turn off the water supply to the faucet. Look under the sink for shut-off valves — turn them clockwise until they stop. Then turn on the faucet to release any remaining pressure and drain residual water.
Step 2: Remove the Faucet Handle
Most faucet handles are held in place by a screw hidden under a decorative cap. Use a flathead screwdriver to pop off the cap, then unscrew the handle screw. Gently wiggle the handle off — if it's stiff, don't force it. A little back-and-forth motion usually does the trick.
Step 3: Access the Packing Nut and Stem
With the handle removed, you'll see a packing nut. Use your wrench to loosen it counterclockwise and remove it. Beneath it sits the stem — pull this out by turning it in the same direction you'd turn a tap to open it.
Step 4: Inspect and Replace the Washer
At the bottom of the stem, you'll find a rubber washer held in place by a brass screw. This washer is almost always the culprit in a dripping faucet. Check it for wear, cracking, or flat spots. Take it to your hardware store to find an exact match, then replace it and tighten the screw firmly.
While you're at it, inspect the O-ring on the stem itself. If the leak is around the base of the faucet handle rather than the spout, the O-ring is likely the problem. Replace it as well — apply a thin coat of plumber's grease before fitting the new one.
Step 5: Reassemble and Test
- Reinsert the stem and tighten the packing nut clockwise.
- Reattach the handle and tighten the screw.
- Replace the decorative cap.
- Slowly turn the water supply back on.
- Turn the faucet on and off a few times and watch for drips.
When to Call a Plumber
If the leak persists after replacing the washer and O-ring, the seat (the part the washer presses against) may be damaged or corroded. A plumber can resurface or replace the seat, which requires a specialised tool. Similarly, if you notice water damage under the sink, discolouration, or mould, it's best to get a professional involved.
Final Thoughts
Fixing a leaky faucet is one of the most accessible DIY home repairs you can make. With a few basic tools and a replacement washer, most people can have the job done in under an hour. Taking care of small leaks promptly also protects your home from water damage and keeps your water bills in check.