ℹ️ Skipped - page is already crawled
| Filter | Status | Condition | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| HTTP status | PASS | download_http_code = 200 | HTTP 200 |
| Age cutoff | PASS | download_stamp > now() - 6 MONTH | 0.6 months ago |
| History drop | PASS | isNull(history_drop_reason) | No drop reason |
| Spam/ban | PASS | fh_dont_index != 1 AND ml_spam_score = 0 | ml_spam_score=0 |
| Canonical | PASS | meta_canonical IS NULL OR = '' OR = src_unparsed | Not set |
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| URL | https://www.ifixit.com/Answers/View/243795/How+to+stop+a+dripping+faucet |
| Last Crawled | 2026-03-19 06:14:30 (19 days ago) |
| First Indexed | 2015-07-22 13:36:48 (10 years ago) |
| HTTP Status Code | 200 |
| Meta Title | SOLVED: How to stop a dripping faucet - Faucet - iFixit |
| Meta Description | Nancy Wilder, you seem to have some issues with minerals in your water that build up inside your faucet :-). The repairs are not really that complicated but can be tedious. Most leaky compression faucets will need new seat washers. Pry off the decorative cap on the handle, remove the handle... - Faucet |
| Meta Canonical | null |
| Boilerpipe Text | Chosen Solution
Nancy Wilder, you seem to have some issues with minerals in your water that build up inside your faucet :-). The repairs are not really that complicated but can be tedious. Most leaky compression faucets will need new seat washers. Pry off the decorative cap on the handle, remove the handle screw, pull off the handle and use a crescent wrench to unscrew the packing nut. After unscrewing the stem, remove and replace the seat washer held in place by a brass screw. Always make sure that you cut the water supply to the faucet before taking it apart. Each faucet can be a bit different, so images of your particular once will be helpful. Post images of your faucet with your question. Use
this guide
for that. Here is a
decent video
about the repair as well.
Was this answer helpful?
Score
1
Cancel
Scroll through this thread to find the appropriate place for this comment. Then, click "Attach comment to this post" to move it.
Gear Up For Future Repairs
Most Helpful Answer
A dripping faucet almost always must be disassembled in order to replace internal O-rings, seats, or washers. With some you replace the entire cartridge. There are many types and styles. The only way to know what you need is to shut off the water below the sink and then disassemble the faucet. This video shows how to do that with a traditional stem valve type:
https://youtu.be/wPGFWtVhzYo
you'll find YouTube videos showing how to deal with almost any type of faucet. Good luck!
Was this answer helpful?
Score
2
Cancel
Scroll through this thread to find the appropriate place for this comment. Then, click "Attach comment to this post" to move it.
Here are some steps you can follow to stop a dripping faucet:
Identify the type of faucet: Different types of faucets have different mechanisms for controlling the flow of water. Knowing the type of faucet you have will help you determine the cause of the dripping and how to fix it.
Check the washer: In most cases, a dripping faucet is caused by a worn washer. To fix the problem, you'll need to remove the handle and access the valve stem. Once you have the valve stem exposed, you can remove the washer and replace it with a new one.
Check the O-ring: If the washer is not the problem, you may need to check the O-ring. The O-ring is a small, rubber ring that helps to seal the valve stem and prevent leaks. If the O-ring is damaged or worn, it may need to be replaced.
Check the valve seat: If the washer and O-ring are not the problem, you may need to check the valve seat. The valve seat is a small, flat surface that the washer presses against to stop the flow of water. If the valve seat is damaged or worn, it may need to be resurfaced or replaced.
By following these steps, you should be able to stop a dripping faucet and fix the problem. If you're unsure about how to proceed, or if the problem persists after trying these steps, it may be worth seeking the help of a professional plumber.
Was this answer helpful?
Score
1
Cancel
Scroll through this thread to find the appropriate place for this comment. Then, click "Attach comment to this post" to move it. |
| Markdown | [Skip to main content](https://www.ifixit.com/Answers/View/243795/How+to+stop+a+dripping+faucet#content)
Fix Your Stuff
[Repair Guides](https://www.ifixit.com/Guide)
[Answers Forum](https://www.ifixit.com/Answers)
[Teardowns](https://www.ifixit.com/Teardown)
[FixBot](https://www.ifixit.com/en-gb/go/fixbot)
Community
[Get Involved](https://www.ifixit.com/Community)
[Right to Repair](https://www.ifixit.com/Right-to-Repair)
[Repairability](https://www.ifixit.com/repairability)
[App](https://www.ifixit.com/en-gb/go/app)
Store
[Featured](https://www.ifixit.com/en-gb/Store)
[Tools](https://www.ifixit.com/en-gb/Tools)
[Parts](https://www.ifixit.com/en-gb/Parts)
[iPhone Batteries](https://www.ifixit.com/en-gb/Parts/iPhone/Batteries)
Language / Region
[EnglishEN]()
[DEDeutsch]()
[ESEspañol]()
[ITItaliano]()
[PTPortuguês]()
[TRTürkçe]()
[JP日本語]()
[ENEnglish]()
[FRFrançais]()
[NLNederlands]()
[RUPусский]()
[ZH中文]()
[KO한국어]()
[United Kingdom]()
[United StatesUSD]()
[CanadaCAD]()
[AustraliaAUD]()
[United KingdomGBP]()
[EuropeEUR]()
[FranceEUR]()
[DeutschlandEUR]()
[ItaliaEUR]()
Workbench
iFixit uses cookies to enhance site functionality, analyze traffic, and personalize ads. By using our site, you agree to our cookie use and [Privacy Policy](https://www.ifixit.com/Info/Privacy_policy_EU).
Details
Accept All
Free delivery on orders over £65\*
1. [Faucet](https://www.ifixit.com/Answers/Device/Faucet)
2. [Plumbing](https://www.ifixit.com/Answers/Device/Plumbing)
3. [Home Construction](https://www.ifixit.com/Answers/Device/Home_Construction)
4. [Household](https://www.ifixit.com/Answers/Device/Household)
5. [All Answers](https://www.ifixit.com/Answers)
Parts
[Guides](https://www.ifixit.com/Device/Faucet#Section_Guides)[Troubleshooting](https://www.ifixit.com/Troubleshooting/Faucet)
243795
[](https://www.ifixit.com/Device/Faucet)
## [Faucet](https://www.ifixit.com/Device/Faucet)
Repair guides and support for sinks, taps and faucets in your kitchen or bathroom.
[15 Questions View all](https://www.ifixit.com/Answers/Device/Faucet)
[](https://www.ifixit.com/User/1273534/Nancy+Wilder)
[Nancy Wilder @nancywilder](https://www.ifixit.com/User/1273534/Nancy+Wilder)
Rep: 73
[ 2  2](https://www.ifixit.com/User/Graph/1273534/Nancy+Wilder)
[Posted: Jul 22, 2015](https://www.ifixit.com/Answers/View/243795/How+to+stop+a+dripping+faucet)
Options
- [Permalink](https://www.ifixit.com/Answers/View/243795/How+to+stop+a+dripping+faucet)
- [History](https://www.ifixit.com/Answers/History/243795)
- Subscribe
- Unsubscribe
# How to stop a dripping faucet
How to stop the faucet from dribbling water?
Every sink in my house drip's water! Please inform me on how to fix my dribbling faucet's. Its wasting so much water especially since we ,Califotnian's are in a huge water drought. Thank you
[**Answered\!** View the answer]() [I have this problem too]() [Subscribed to new answers]()
Is this a good question?
[Yes]() [No]()
Voted Undo
Score 6
[Cancel]()
Scroll through this thread to find the appropriate place for this comment. Then, click "Attach comment to this post" to move it.
2 Comments
Not only are all my sinks dripping, but my tub spigot as well. Is the solution the same? I live on Galveston Island in Texas
[Apr 18, 2017](https://www.ifixit.com/Answers/View/243795/How+to+stop+a+dripping+faucet?permalink=comment-320930#comment-320930) by [Kyra Elliott](https://www.ifixit.com/User/1973314/Kyra+Elliott)
How much calcium deposit build up are getting on your faucets? Could you post a picture of one with heavier buildup?
[Apr 18, 2017](https://www.ifixit.com/Answers/View/243795/How+to+stop+a+dripping+faucet?permalink=comment-321018#comment-321018) by [mayer](https://www.ifixit.com/User/13051/mayer)
[Add a comment]()
## 3 Answers
Filter by:
[Most Helpful]() [Newest]() [Oldest]()
Chosen Solution
[](https://www.ifixit.com/User/263105/oldturkey03)
[oldturkey03 @oldturkey03](https://www.ifixit.com/User/263105/oldturkey03)
Rep: 846.5k
[ 1.4k  952  2.4k](https://www.ifixit.com/User/Graph/263105/oldturkey03)
[Posted: Jul 22, 2015](https://www.ifixit.com/Answers/View/243795/How+to+stop+a+dripping+faucet?permalink=answer-243803#answer243803)
Options
- [Permalink](https://www.ifixit.com/Answers/View/243795/How+to+stop+a+dripping+faucet?permalink=answer-243803#answer243803)
- [History](https://www.ifixit.com/Answers/History/243803)
Nancy Wilder, you seem to have some issues with minerals in your water that build up inside your faucet :-). The repairs are not really that complicated but can be tedious. Most leaky compression faucets will need new seat washers. Pry off the decorative cap on the handle, remove the handle screw, pull off the handle and use a crescent wrench to unscrew the packing nut. After unscrewing the stem, remove and replace the seat washer held in place by a brass screw. Always make sure that you cut the water supply to the faucet before taking it apart. Each faucet can be a bit different, so images of your particular once will be helpful. Post images of your faucet with your question. Use [this guide](https://www.ifixit.com/Guide/Adding+images+to+an+existing+question/21499) for that. Here is a [decent video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f_uADyhDDpE) about the repair as well.
Was this answer helpful?
[Yes]() [No]()
Voted Undo
Score 1
[Cancel]()
Scroll through this thread to find the appropriate place for this comment. Then, click "Attach comment to this post" to move it.
2 Comments:
Its a really good idea to shut the water off to the tap your going to take apart . you may have taps under the sink if not you'll have to shut the water off at the source where it comes into the house
[Apr 18, 2017](https://www.ifixit.com/Answers/View/243795/How+to+stop+a+dripping+faucet?permalink=comment-321020#comment-321020) by [Jimfixer](https://www.ifixit.com/User/1215139/Jimfixer)
[@jimfixer](https://www.ifixit.com/User/1215139/Jimfixer) totslly agree with you on that. That was one of the main reasons why I had this "cut the water supply to the faucet before taking it apart." in my answer....
[Apr 18, 2017](https://www.ifixit.com/Answers/View/243795/How+to+stop+a+dripping+faucet?permalink=comment-321042#comment-321042) by [oldturkey03](https://www.ifixit.com/User/263105/oldturkey03)
[Add a comment]()
Gear Up For Future Repairs

[Pro Tech Toolkit](https://www.ifixit.com/en-gb/products/pro-tech-toolkit)
2720
Sale price £64.99
Add to cart

[FixHub Soldering Toolkit](https://www.ifixit.com/en-gb/products/fixhub-soldering-toolkit)
99
Sale price £289.99
Add to cart

[Magnetic Project Mat](https://www.ifixit.com/en-gb/products/magnetic-project-mat)
1324
Sale price £17.99
Add to cart

[Manta Precision Bit Set](https://www.ifixit.com/en-gb/products/manta-driver-kit-112-bit-driver-kit)
722
Sale price £61.99
Add to cart

[Mako Precision Bit Set](https://www.ifixit.com/en-gb/products/mako-driver-kit-64-precision-bits)
852
Sale price £34.99
Add to cart
Most Helpful Answer
[](https://www.ifixit.com/User/3859327/Scott+Clark)
[Scott Clark @fix\_itguy](https://www.ifixit.com/User/3859327/Scott+Clark)
Rep: 25
[ 2](https://www.ifixit.com/User/Graph/3859327/Scott+Clark)
[Posted: Feb 26, 2021](https://www.ifixit.com/Answers/View/243795/How+to+stop+a+dripping+faucet?permalink=answer-682456#answer682456)
Options
- [Permalink](https://www.ifixit.com/Answers/View/243795/How+to+stop+a+dripping+faucet?permalink=answer-682456#answer682456)
- [History](https://www.ifixit.com/Answers/History/682456)
A dripping faucet almost always must be disassembled in order to replace internal O-rings, seats, or washers. With some you replace the entire cartridge. There are many types and styles. The only way to know what you need is to shut off the water below the sink and then disassemble the faucet. This video shows how to do that with a traditional stem valve type: <https://youtu.be/wPGFWtVhzYo> you'll find YouTube videos showing how to deal with almost any type of faucet. Good luck\!
Was this answer helpful?
[Yes]() [No]()
Voted Undo
Score 2
[Cancel]()
Scroll through this thread to find the appropriate place for this comment. Then, click "Attach comment to this post" to move it.
[Add a comment]()
[](https://www.ifixit.com/User/4237156/Scott+Robillard)
[Scott Robillard @scottrobillard](https://www.ifixit.com/User/4237156/Scott+Robillard)
Rep: 13
[ 4](https://www.ifixit.com/User/Graph/4237156/Scott+Robillard)
[Posted: Dec 24, 2022](https://www.ifixit.com/Answers/View/243795/How+to+stop+a+dripping+faucet?permalink=answer-760937#answer760937)
Options
- [Permalink](https://www.ifixit.com/Answers/View/243795/How+to+stop+a+dripping+faucet?permalink=answer-760937#answer760937)
- [History](https://www.ifixit.com/Answers/History/760937)
Here are some steps you can follow to stop a dripping faucet:
1. Identify the type of faucet: Different types of faucets have different mechanisms for controlling the flow of water. Knowing the type of faucet you have will help you determine the cause of the dripping and how to fix it.
2. Check the washer: In most cases, a dripping faucet is caused by a worn washer. To fix the problem, you'll need to remove the handle and access the valve stem. Once you have the valve stem exposed, you can remove the washer and replace it with a new one.
3. Check the O-ring: If the washer is not the problem, you may need to check the O-ring. The O-ring is a small, rubber ring that helps to seal the valve stem and prevent leaks. If the O-ring is damaged or worn, it may need to be replaced.
4. Check the valve seat: If the washer and O-ring are not the problem, you may need to check the valve seat. The valve seat is a small, flat surface that the washer presses against to stop the flow of water. If the valve seat is damaged or worn, it may need to be resurfaced or replaced.
By following these steps, you should be able to stop a dripping faucet and fix the problem. If you're unsure about how to proceed, or if the problem persists after trying these steps, it may be worth seeking the help of a professional plumber.
Was this answer helpful?
[Yes]() [No]()
Voted Undo
Score 1
[Cancel]()
Scroll through this thread to find the appropriate place for this comment. Then, click "Attach comment to this post" to move it.
[Add a comment]()
**View Statistics:**
Past 24 Hours: 17
Past 7 Days: 71
Past 30 Days: 280
All Time: 21,827
- [About Us](https://www.ifixit.com/about-us)
- [Customer Support](http://www.ifixit.com/en-gb/Support)
- [Discuss iFixit](https://meta.ifixit.com/)
- [Careers](https://www.ifixit.com/about-us/careers)
- [Newsletter](https://www.ifixit.com/Newsletter)
- [API](https://www.ifixit.com/api/2.0/doc/)
- [Press](https://www.ifixit.com/Info/Media)
- [News](https://www.ifixit.com/News)
- [Participate](https://www.ifixit.com/Participate)
- [Pro Wholesale](http://www.ifixit.com/en-gb/pro)
- [Retail Locator](https://www.ifixit.com/Retail)
- [For Manufacturers](https://www.ifixit.com/services)
- [Accessibility](https://www.ifixit.com/Info/Accessibility)
- [Legal Notice](https://www.ifixit.com/Info/Imprint)
- [Privacy](https://www.ifixit.com/Info/Privacy_policy_EU)
- [Terms](https://www.ifixit.com/Info/Terms_of_Use)
- [Battery Recycling & Fees](https://www.ifixit.com/Info/Battery_Recycling_and_Fees_in_the_EU)
- [Cookie Consent]()
Stay in the loop
Learn something new every month\!
[Let me read it first\!](https://www.ifixit.com/Newsletter)
***
[Help translate](https://www.ifixit.com/Translate)
***
[Repair is noble](https://www.ifixit.com/Manifesto)
© 2026 iFixit
—
[Licensed under Creative Commons](https://www.ifixit.com/Info/Licensing)
 |
| Readable Markdown | Chosen Solution
[](https://www.ifixit.com/User/263105/oldturkey03)
Nancy Wilder, you seem to have some issues with minerals in your water that build up inside your faucet :-). The repairs are not really that complicated but can be tedious. Most leaky compression faucets will need new seat washers. Pry off the decorative cap on the handle, remove the handle screw, pull off the handle and use a crescent wrench to unscrew the packing nut. After unscrewing the stem, remove and replace the seat washer held in place by a brass screw. Always make sure that you cut the water supply to the faucet before taking it apart. Each faucet can be a bit different, so images of your particular once will be helpful. Post images of your faucet with your question. Use [this guide](https://www.ifixit.com/Guide/Adding+images+to+an+existing+question/21499) for that. Here is a [decent video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f_uADyhDDpE) about the repair as well.
Was this answer helpful?
Score 1
[Cancel]()
Scroll through this thread to find the appropriate place for this comment. Then, click "Attach comment to this post" to move it.
Gear Up For Future Repairs
Most Helpful Answer
[](https://www.ifixit.com/User/3859327/Scott+Clark)
A dripping faucet almost always must be disassembled in order to replace internal O-rings, seats, or washers. With some you replace the entire cartridge. There are many types and styles. The only way to know what you need is to shut off the water below the sink and then disassemble the faucet. This video shows how to do that with a traditional stem valve type: <https://youtu.be/wPGFWtVhzYo> you'll find YouTube videos showing how to deal with almost any type of faucet. Good luck\!
Was this answer helpful?
Score 2
[Cancel]()
Scroll through this thread to find the appropriate place for this comment. Then, click "Attach comment to this post" to move it.
[](https://www.ifixit.com/User/4237156/Scott+Robillard)
Here are some steps you can follow to stop a dripping faucet:
1. Identify the type of faucet: Different types of faucets have different mechanisms for controlling the flow of water. Knowing the type of faucet you have will help you determine the cause of the dripping and how to fix it.
2. Check the washer: In most cases, a dripping faucet is caused by a worn washer. To fix the problem, you'll need to remove the handle and access the valve stem. Once you have the valve stem exposed, you can remove the washer and replace it with a new one.
3. Check the O-ring: If the washer is not the problem, you may need to check the O-ring. The O-ring is a small, rubber ring that helps to seal the valve stem and prevent leaks. If the O-ring is damaged or worn, it may need to be replaced.
4. Check the valve seat: If the washer and O-ring are not the problem, you may need to check the valve seat. The valve seat is a small, flat surface that the washer presses against to stop the flow of water. If the valve seat is damaged or worn, it may need to be resurfaced or replaced.
By following these steps, you should be able to stop a dripping faucet and fix the problem. If you're unsure about how to proceed, or if the problem persists after trying these steps, it may be worth seeking the help of a professional plumber.
Was this answer helpful?
Score 1
[Cancel]()
Scroll through this thread to find the appropriate place for this comment. Then, click "Attach comment to this post" to move it. |
| Shard | 108 (laksa) |
| Root Hash | 262801119256826308 |
| Unparsed URL | com,ifixit!www,/Answers/View/243795/How+to+stop+a+dripping+faucet s443 |