How to Fix a Leaky Faucet (Save Water and Money)

A dripping faucet can waste thousands of liters a year. The good news: most leaks are a cheap, 20-minute fix you can do yourself.

Step 1: Turn off the water

Look under the sink for the shut-off valves and turn them clockwise. Then open the faucet to release any remaining pressure.

Step 2: Plug the drain

Put a stopper or cloth in the drain so you don’t lose small parts.

Step 3: Identify the faucet type

Type	Clue
Compression	Separate hot/cold handles
Cartridge	Single handle, smooth motion
Ball / ceramic disc	Single handle, common in kitchens

Step 4: Replace the worn part

Most leaks come from a worn washer, O-ring, or cartridge. Disassemble the handle, take the old part to a hardware store to match it exactly, and install the replacement.

Step 5: Reassemble and test

Put it back together, turn the water back on slowly, and check for leaks.

Take a photo at each step of disassembly — it makes reassembly foolproof.

FAQ

Why is my faucet still dripping after replacing the washer? The valve seat may be corroded. It can be cleaned or replaced too.

Do I need a plumber? Most drips are DIY. Call a plumber only if pipes are corroded or you can’t shut off the water.

Conclusion

Shut off the water, identify the faucet, replace the worn washer or cartridge, and reassemble. A small fix that saves a lot of water.