🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 92 (from laksa025)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa092.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical, ml_categories_json AS ml_categories_json, ml_types_json AS ml_types_json, ml_intent_types_json AS ml_intent_types_json, meta_language AS meta_language, attrs_author AS attrs_author, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(attrs_publish_time), 0) AS attrs_publish_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(attrs_original_publish_time), 0) AS attrs_original_publish_time, ifNull(attrs_is_republished, 0) AS attrs_is_republished, ifNull(attrs_nr_words, 0) AS attrs_nr_words, ifNull(attrs_boilerpipe_nr_words, 0) AS attrs_boilerpipe_nr_words, ifNull(body_ext_links_number, 0) AS body_ext_links_number, ifNull(body_int_links_number, 0) AS body_int_links_number, ifNull(meta_nofollow, 0) AS meta_nofollow, ifNull(meta_noarchive, 0) AS meta_noarchive, ifNull(props_was_rendered, 0) AS props_was_rendered, ifNull(src_redirect, \'\') AS src_redirect, ifNull(download_time_msec, 0) AS download_time_msec, ifNull(download_ttfb_msec, 0) AS download_ttfb_msec, ifNull(download_size, 0) AS download_size FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet","crawl_time":1776795769,"first_indexed_time":1507113942,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,wikihow!www,\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet s443","src_root_hash":"12431216878206919092","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"How to Fix a Leaky Faucet: Guides for Every Design and Style","meta_descriptions":["A guide on fixing leaks an drips for a variety of faucet styles If you've got a drippy faucet or a handle that spews water every time you turn it, you may be tempted to call a plumber. But what if you could solve the problem yourself and..."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Download Article\nListen to Summary\nPodcasts coming soon!\nA guide on fixing leaks an drips for a variety of faucet styles\nDownload Article\nListen to Summary\nPreliminary Steps\n|\nCompression Faucet\n|\nBall Faucet\n|\nCartridge Faucet\n|\nCeramic-Disk Faucet\n|\nVideo\n|\nExpert Interview\n|\nExpert Q&A\nIf you’ve got a drippy faucet or a handle that spews water every time you turn it, you may be tempted to call a plumber. But what if you could solve the problem yourself and save some money in the process? It’s easy to fix a leaky faucet yourself. We’re going to help you figure out what kind of faucet you have and then walk you through the repair step by step, so read on to learn more.\nHow to Fix a Dripping Bathroom Faucet\nTurn off the water to the sink and stuff a rag in the drain. Disassemble the handles by looking for a small screw slot and unscrewing the fastener. If there’s no slot, pry the handle off manually. Depending on the style of sink, you’ll need to replace the rubber O-ring inside the valve or replace the entire assembly.\nLook underneath your sink for the water supply lines that run up to the handles. Locate the valves where those pipes feed into the wall and turn them counterclockwise all the way. This will shut the water off and help you avoid making a mess.\n[1]\nUse a sink plug if you have one. If you don’t, shove a rag inside of the drain to block it. Nothing will ruin your day faster than watching a screw or washer you need slide down the drain when you accidentally drop it.\n[2]\nThere are tons of different styles out there, but there are really only 4 types of faucet assemblies. How you repair your faucet depends on the type of faucet, so figure this out first before proceeding. You may need to take your faucet apart before you can sort this out.\n[3]\nA\ncompression faucet\nis the most basic type. It relies on a small stem that raises up or down to control the flow of water. Most “cheap” faucets are compression-style.\nA\nball faucet\ncontains a ball bearing. The faucets with a single handle where you move it left or right to make the water hot or cold are ball faucets.\nA\ncartridge faucet\ncontains a cartridge that rotates to allow the flow of water. The materials of the cartridge will vary, but the handle often has a decorative cap. Most “fancy” faucets have cartridges.\nA\nceramic-disk faucet\ncontains 1-2 ceramic cylinders that spin to allow water to flow. The high-end faucets with the single handle on the side (not the back!) are usually ceramic-disk faucets.\nAdvertisement\nPry off the decorative cap if there is one. If there are screw slot openings, grab a screwdriver and remove the fasteners. Then, take the handles off.\n[4]\nIf you’re only adjusting one leaky faucet handle, you don’t need to remove both of the handles.\nThe decorative cap might be a label for “hot” or “cold,” or it may be a little circular piece covering up a screw slot. Cheaper compression faucets are unlikely to have these pieces.\nThere is a stem under the handle that sits on top of the O-ring, which sits on top of a seat washer. The seat washer is usually made of rubber, which can get worn out after a while. If your faucet is dripping, this is mostly likely the culprit.\n[5]\nIf the stem won’t come out when you twist it or pull on it, use a wrench to pry it out or unscrew it. This will expose the O-ring, which will be thinner, and the seat washer, which will be thicker. If the handles are leaky replace the O-ring. Take the old one to the hardware store and use it to find a replacement.\n[6]\nReassemble the faucet handle and test the water once you replace the O-ring.\nThis is the upside-down brass screw. Either unscrew it by hand, or use a wrench to loosen and remove the valve washer. If your faucet is leaking, this is probably the main culprit.\n[7]\nSince these washers aren’t universal, take it with you to the hardware store to find a replacement. If you can’t find a replacement, contact your faucet’s manufacturer to order one directly from them. Coat the replacement in\nplumber’s grease\nbefore installing it back in the valve.\n[8]\nYou can use petroleum jelly instead of plumber’s grease if you prefer.\nPut everything back together the same way you took them apart. Tighten any screws or fasteners you removed. Then, turn the water on and let it run for a few minutes to wash out any debris. Any minor leaks should now be fixed.\nIf you do find any leaks, confirm that you installed the O-ring and seat washer correctly. If there’s still a leak, you likely have to replace the entire faucet.\nAdvertisement\nBuy a\nreplacement kit\nfor your ball faucet.\nBall faucets have several parts that require replacement. They need special tools, too. You won't need to replace the entire faucet, just the faucet cam assembly. All of the stuff you'll need, including the tools, should be included in this type of kit that runs about $20.\n[9]\nLook for a kit that specifically mentions your specific faucet brand and model as compatible.\nLift off the handle and place it aside. You may need to unscrew a small faster that holds the lever in place on top of the ball cap. Pop off the spout and handle.\n[10]\nLoosen the faucet cam, which is the threaded bit on top of the entire valve assembly. There is a specific tool in your replacement kit for this purpose, so follow the instructions that came with your kit. Remove the faucet cam, washer, and ball.\n[11]\nThis will look like a \"ball and socket\" joint in your body—a movable (usually white) rubber ball plugs the socket, which stops the water and releases it.\nReach inside of the faucet body using needle-nose pliers and pull out the small seals and springs. Note how these components are attached to the valve, which should help when it’s time to reassemble your faucet.\n[12]\nCut off the old O-ring and coat the new one in plumber’s grease. Slide it onto the assembly where the old O-ring was located.\n[13]\nIn the vast majority of cases, the O-ring is the culprit for the leak.\nYou can use petroleum jelly instead of plumber’s grease if you prefer.\nThese are all be included in your kit, and should be essentially the reverse of the process you completed. Wherever you took a spring or washer off, install a replacement.\n[14]\nEven though the O-ring is likely to blame, replacing the springs and whatnot will keep you from needing to replace them in the near future.\nThe leak should now be repaired, but double-check just to be sure. Turn the water on and let it run for a few minutes to wash out any debris. Then, check under the sink and around the faucet to confirm you don’t have water leaking anywhere.\n[15]\nAdvertisement\nPry off the decorative cap if you have one. Then, look for a small opening on each handle where the screw goes. Use a small screwdriver to unscrew the fastener and then remove the handles.\n[16]\nIf you don’t see any screw slots, try gently prying the handle up by hand or twisting it “backwards” until it comes off.\nIn some niche models, a retaining clip holds the cartridge in place. This is a circular, threaded piece that’s usually made of plastic. Use pliers to pry it off of the cartridge.\n[17]\nThe cartridge may come right out. If it doesn’t, pull it up until you hear a click. This is the position the cartridge sits in when the water is on full blast.\n[18]\nSlide the spout up off of the cartridge and set it aside. Locate the O-rings at the base of the cartridge.\nIf your cartridge looks undamaged and it’s inside the faucet opening, simply clean it off with a damp cloth and replace the O-ring. However, if the cartridge looks damaged or it simply looks unreasonably old, purchase a replacement and stick it inside the opening.\n[19]\nThe cartridge will click in place when you insert it. There’s only one way for the cartridge to go in, so it’s impossible to get this one wrong.\nYou must purchase a replacement cartridge designed specifically for your faucet brand and model.\nThe leak should now be repaired. Put the handle back over the cartridge, install the retaining clip if there was one, and turn the water back on to confirm everything is smooth.\n[20]\nAdvertisement\nUnscrew the handle by turning it counterclockwise until it comes loose or removing the fastener holding the handle in place. Locate the escutcheon, which sits directly beneath the handle and is usually made of metal. Lift the escutcheon off to reveal the cylinders underneath.\n[21]\nEvery ceramic-disk faucet is going to be different, but you typically use a screwdriver to loosen the retainer nut or mounting screw that holds the disk cylinder in place. Then, lift the cylinder out of the opening in your faucet.\n[22]\nDepending on the design of your faucet, you may have multiple disk cylinders. Take all of them out if you do, but note the way they’re arranged on top of one another.\nWhite vinegar would work well for this, especially if you have hard water. Soak the disk(s) for 2-3 hours to work out the build-up and then assess whether or not they're reusable.\n[23]\nUse your gut with the disks. If they look like trash, they probably need to be replaced.\nIf the seals look pitted, frayed, thin, or otherwise worn but the disk is fine, simply take it to the home improvement store and buy a replacement. Otherwise, purchase a new disk deigned specifically for your faucet model.\n[24]\nPut everything back the way it originally was. Then, turn the handle for a few minutes to allow the water to flush out any debris. Check under the sink and around the faucet handles for leaks to confirm everything works.\n[25]\nAdvertisement\nSearch\nAdd New Question\nQuestion\nDo I need to shut off the main water supply before I do this?\nDavid Balkan\nProfessional Plumber & CEO of Balkan Sewer & Water Main\nDavid Balkan is a Professional Plumber, CEO of Balkan Sewer and Water Main Service, and President of Balkan Sewer and Drain Cleaning. As a hands-on owner of these companies for over 40 years, David is knowledgeable about water service lines, sewers, and drain line issues. David is a Committee Chairman of the Master Plumbers Council and has sat on the Executive Committee of the Sub Surface Plumbers Association of New York for over 30 years. His knowledge and solution-oriented approach contributed to Balkan Sewer and Water Main Service being the largest and most trusted service in New York City and the recipient of the 2017 Angie’s List Super Service Award.\nProfessional Plumber & CEO of Balkan Sewer & Water Main\nExpert Answer\nNo, every sink has its own shutoff valve that you can use. It should be under the sink. You just need to turn the water supply to the sink off.\nQuestion\nMy compression faucet handles are solid and there are no screws anywhere. What should I do?\nThis answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.\nwikiHow Staff Editor\nStaff Answer\nSee the seam where the handle meets the faucet fixture? Slide a flathead screwdriver in that seam and pry the handles up.\nQuestion\nMy leak is located at the shut-off valve for cold water underneath the sink. What sort of parts do I need to buy?\nThis answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.\nwikiHow Staff Editor\nStaff Answer\nBefore you buy anything, grab a wrench and tighten the nut right behind the valve. The plumber's tape on that nut's threading can degrade over time which can cause a leak. Luckily, turning that nut a few times should fix it. If the leak is coming from under the sink, try tightening the nut under the sink handle. If none of this works, just replace the supply line entirely.\nSee more answers\nAsk a Question\n200 characters left\nInclude your email address to get a message when this question is answered.\nSubmit\nAdvertisement\nThanks for submitting a tip for review!\nThanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about faucet repair, check out our in-depth\ninterview\nwith\nDave Jones\n.\nReferences\nAbout This Article\nArticle Summary\nX\nTo fix a leaky faucet, first turn off the water to your faucet by twisting the valve under the sink. If there’s no valve, turn off the water supply for your whole house. Turn the faucet on to empty any water in the pipes, and plug the drain so nothing falls down it while you’re working. If there’s a set screw behind the faucet handle, use an Allen wrench to remove it, then take the handle off. Alternatively, if there’s a top screw cover on the handle, pry it off with a flathead screwdriver, then loosen the screw beneath it and remove the handle. With the handle off, use a wrench to loosen and remove the nut in the handle assembly. Pull the handle cartridge up and out of the sink. Use a cloth to wipe down all of the loose parts and the area around the handle. If the O-ring looks old or damaged, replace it. Get a matching replacement for the old cartridge, then insert the new cartridge back into the sink. Now tighten the nut back into place with the wrench and reattach the handle. Finally, turn the water back on and check that your faucet is no longer leaking.\nIf you need to learn how to fix a compression or cartridge faucet, keep reading!\nDid this summary help you?\nThanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 2,447,093 times.\nReader Success Stories\nJen B.\nOct 18, 2017\n\"I didn't think a leaky faucet was something I could fix myself, but the steps for a compression faucet (which\n...\"\nmore\nDid this article help you?","attrs_markdown":"[Skip to Content](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#breadcrumb_1)\n\n[Quizzes](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Quizzes)\n\n- [PRO](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Pro)\n  [Courses Hot](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Course\/Explore)   [Guides](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Guides)   [Tech Help Pro](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Tech-Help-Pro)   [Expert Videos](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Videos-wikiHowPro)   [About wikiHow Pro](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Pro)   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Learn why people **trust wikiHow**](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience)\n\n- [Categories](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Special:CategoryListing \"Special:CategoryListing\")\n- [Home and Garden](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Category:Home-and-Garden \"Category:Home and Garden\")\n- [DIY](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Category:DIY \"Category:DIY\")\n- [Plumbing](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Category:Plumbing \"Category:Plumbing\")\n- [Faucets and Taps](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Category:Faucets-and-Taps \"Category:Faucets and Taps\")\n- [Faucet Repairs](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Category:Faucet-Repairs \"Category:Faucet Repairs\")\n# [How to Repair a Faucet That Leaks](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet)\n\n[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) [Listen to Summary](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet)Podcasts coming soon\\!\n\nA guide on fixing leaks an drips for a variety of faucet styles\n\n**Co-authored by** [Dave Jones](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Dave-Jones)  and [Eric McClure](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Eric-McClure)\n\n[Last Updated: February 19, 2026](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet)  [Fact Checked](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet)\n\n[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) [Listen to Summary](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet)\n\n- [Preliminary Steps](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#Preliminary-Steps)\n- [Compression Faucet](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#Compression-Faucet)\n- [Ball Faucet](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#Ball-Faucet)\n- [Cartridge Faucet](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#Cartridge-Faucet)\n- [Ceramic-Disk Faucet](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#Ceramic-Disk-Faucet)\n- [Video](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#Video)\n- [Expert Interview](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#expertinterview)\n- [Expert Q\\&A](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#qa_headline)\n\n\\|Show more\n\n\\|Show less\n\n[ARTICLE](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#steps_1)\n\n[VIDEO](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#Video)\n\nX\n\nThis article was co-authored by [Dave Jones](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Dave-Jones) and by wikiHow staff writer, [Eric McClure](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Eric-McClure). Dave Jones is a Professional Plumber and the Midwest Regional Vice President at Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. In 1992, Jones joined Roto-Rooter as a drain service technician at the age of 18. Since then, he has risen through the ranks into positions of increasing authority. Dave served as general manager of Roto-Rooter’s Charlotte, North Carolina, and Atlanta, Georgia branches before being promoted to Contractor Area Manager and later to Regional Vice President. Dave holds Master Plumber Licenses in Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Georgia.   \n  \n There are [10 references](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#References) cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page.   \n  \n This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources.   \n  \n This article has been viewed 2,447,093 times.\n\nIf you’ve got a drippy faucet or a handle that spews water every time you turn it, you may be tempted to call a plumber. But what if you could solve the problem yourself and save some money in the process? It’s easy to fix a leaky faucet yourself. We’re going to help you figure out what kind of faucet you have and then walk you through the repair step by step, so read on to learn more.\n\n## How to Fix a Dripping Bathroom Faucet\nTurn off the water to the sink and stuff a rag in the drain. Disassemble the handles by looking for a small screw slot and unscrewing the fastener. If there’s no slot, pry the handle off manually. Depending on the style of sink, you’ll need to replace the rubber O-ring inside the valve or replace the entire assembly.\n## Steps\nMethod 1\n\nMethod 1 of 5:\n\n### Preliminary Steps\n\n[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet)\n\n1. [![Step 1 Turn off the water to your faucet.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/02\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-1-Version-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-1-Version-9.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-1-Version-9.jpg)\n   1\n   **Turn off the water to your faucet.** Look underneath your sink for the water supply lines that run up to the handles. Locate the valves where those pipes feed into the wall and turn them counterclockwise all the way. This will shut the water off and help you avoid making a mess.[\\[1\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-1)X [Expert Source](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![David Balkan](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d4\/David_Balkan.png\/-crop-100-100-100px-David_Balkan.png)David Balkan Professional Plumber & CEO of Balkan Sewer & Water Main](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/David-Balkan) Expert Interview\n2. [![Step 2 Plug the drain to avoid losing any small parts.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/bc\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-2-Version-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-2-Version-9.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-2-Version-9.jpg)\n   2\n   **Plug the drain to avoid losing any small parts.** Use a sink plug if you have one. If you don’t, shove a rag inside of the drain to block it. Nothing will ruin your day faster than watching a screw or washer you need slide down the drain when you accidentally drop it.[\\[2\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-2)X [Expert Source](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Dave Jones](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b4\/Dave_Jones.png\/-crop-100-100-100px-Dave_Jones.png)Dave Jones Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Dave-Jones) Expert Interview\n3. [![Step 3 Figure out what type of faucet you have.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d4\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-3-Version-10.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-3-Version-10.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-3-Version-10.jpg)\n   3\n   **Figure out what type of faucet you have.** There are tons of different styles out there, but there are really only 4 types of faucet assemblies. How you repair your faucet depends on the type of faucet, so figure this out first before proceeding. You may need to take your faucet apart before you can sort this out.[\\[3\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-3) X Research source\n   \n   - A **compression faucet** is the most basic type. It relies on a small stem that raises up or down to control the flow of water. Most “cheap” faucets are compression-style.\n   - A **ball faucet** contains a ball bearing. The faucets with a single handle where you move it left or right to make the water hot or cold are ball faucets.\n   - A **cartridge faucet** contains a cartridge that rotates to allow the flow of water. The materials of the cartridge will vary, but the handle often has a decorative cap. Most “fancy” faucets have cartridges.\n   - A **ceramic-disk faucet** contains 1-2 ceramic cylinders that spin to allow water to flow. The high-end faucets with the single handle on the side (not the back!) are usually ceramic-disk faucets.\n\nMethod 2\n\nMethod 2 of 5:\n\n### Compression Faucet\n\n[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet)\n\n1. [![Step 1 Remove each handle with a screwdriver and gentle force.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3c\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-4-Version-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-4-Version-9.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-4-Version-9.jpg)\n   1\n   **Remove each handle with a screwdriver and gentle force.** Pry off the decorative cap if there is one. If there are screw slot openings, grab a screwdriver and remove the fasteners. Then, take the handles off.[\\[4\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-4) X Research source\n   \n   - If you’re only adjusting one leaky faucet handle, you don’t need to remove both of the handles.\n   - The decorative cap might be a label for “hot” or “cold,” or it may be a little circular piece covering up a screw slot. Cheaper compression faucets are unlikely to have these pieces.\n2. [![Step 2 Use a wrench to remove the nut.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3b\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-5-Version-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-5-Version-9.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-5-Version-9.jpg)\n   2\n   **Use a wrench to remove the nut.** There is a stem under the handle that sits on top of the O-ring, which sits on top of a seat washer. The seat washer is usually made of rubber, which can get worn out after a while. If your faucet is dripping, this is mostly likely the culprit.[\\[5\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-5) X Research source\n3. [![Step 3 Pull out the stem using a wrench or your hands.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d9\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-6-Version-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-6-Version-9.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-6-Version-9.jpg)\n   3\n   **Pull out the stem using a wrench or your hands.** If the stem won’t come out when you twist it or pull on it, use a wrench to pry it out or unscrew it. This will expose the O-ring, which will be thinner, and the seat washer, which will be thicker. If the handles are leaky replace the O-ring. Take the old one to the hardware store and use it to find a replacement.[\\[6\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-6)X [Expert Source](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Dave Jones](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b4\/Dave_Jones.png\/-crop-100-100-100px-Dave_Jones.png)Dave Jones Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Dave-Jones) Expert Interview\n   \n   - Reassemble the faucet handle and test the water once you replace the O-ring.\n4. [![Step 4 Remove the seat valve washer.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/17\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-7-Version-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-7-Version-9.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-7-Version-9.jpg)\n   4\n   **Remove the seat valve washer.** This is the upside-down brass screw. Either unscrew it by hand, or use a wrench to loosen and remove the valve washer. If your faucet is leaking, this is probably the main culprit.[\\[7\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-7) X Research source\n5. [![Step 5 Replace the seat washer with an exact replica.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/26\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-8-Version-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-8-Version-9.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-8-Version-9.jpg)\n   5\n   **Replace the seat washer with an exact replica.** Since these washers aren’t universal, take it with you to the hardware store to find a replacement. If you can’t find a replacement, contact your faucet’s manufacturer to order one directly from them. Coat the replacement in [plumber’s grease](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/s?k=plumber%27s+grease&crid=18C5MUZYYSUDI&sprefix=plumber%27s+greas%2Caps%2C112&ref=nb_sb_noss_2&tag=wikihow4570-20) before installing it back in the valve.[\\[8\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-8)X [Expert Source](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Dave Jones](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b4\/Dave_Jones.png\/-crop-100-100-100px-Dave_Jones.png)Dave Jones Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Dave-Jones) Expert Interview\n   \n   - You can use petroleum jelly instead of plumber’s grease if you prefer.\n6. [![Step 6 Reassemble each handle and check your work.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/a1\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-9-Version-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-9-Version-9.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-9-Version-9.jpg)\n   6\n   **Reassemble each handle and check your work.** Put everything back together the same way you took them apart. Tighten any screws or fasteners you removed. Then, turn the water on and let it run for a few minutes to wash out any debris. Any minor leaks should now be fixed.\n   \n   - If you do find any leaks, confirm that you installed the O-ring and seat washer correctly. If there’s still a leak, you likely have to replace the entire faucet.\n\nMethod 3\n\nMethod 3 of 5:\n\n### Ball Faucet\n\n[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet)\n\n1. [![Step 1 Buy a replacement...](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d3\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-10-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-10-Version-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-10-Version-4.jpg)\n   1\n   **Buy a [**replacement kit**](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/s?k=ball+faucet+repair+kit&sprefix=ball+fauce%2Caps%2C113&ref=nb_sb_ss_ts-doa-p_2_10&tag=wikihow4570-20) for your ball faucet.** Ball faucets have several parts that require replacement. They need special tools, too. You won't need to replace the entire faucet, just the faucet cam assembly. All of the stuff you'll need, including the tools, should be included in this type of kit that runs about \\$20.[\\[9\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-9) X Research source\n   \n   - Look for a kit that specifically mentions your specific faucet brand and model as compatible.\n2. [![Step 2 Unscrew the handle and remove it.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b6\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-11-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-11-Version-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-11-Version-4.jpg)\n   2\n   **Unscrew the handle and remove it.** Lift off the handle and place it aside. You may need to unscrew a small faster that holds the lever in place on top of the ball cap. Pop off the spout and handle.[\\[10\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-10) X Research source\n3. [![Step 3 Use pliers to remove the cap and collar.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/5a\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-12-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-12-Version-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-12-Version-4.jpg)\n   3\n   **Use pliers to remove the cap and collar.** Loosen the faucet cam, which is the threaded bit on top of the entire valve assembly. There is a specific tool in your replacement kit for this purpose, so follow the instructions that came with your kit. Remove the faucet cam, washer, and ball.[\\[11\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-11) X Research source\n   \n   - This will look like a \"ball and socket\" joint in your body—a movable (usually white) rubber ball plugs the socket, which stops the water and releases it.\n4. [![Step 4 Remove the inlet seals and springs.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/14\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-13-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-13-Version-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-13-Version-4.jpg)\n   4\n   **Remove the inlet seals and springs.** Reach inside of the faucet body using needle-nose pliers and pull out the small seals and springs. Note how these components are attached to the valve, which should help when it’s time to reassemble your faucet.[\\[12\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-12) X Research source\n5. [![Step 5 Replace the O-rings by sliding them on by hand.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/dd\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-14-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-14-Version-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-14-Version-4.jpg)\n   5\n   **Replace the O-rings by sliding them on by hand.** Cut off the old O-ring and coat the new one in plumber’s grease. Slide it onto the assembly where the old O-ring was located.[\\[13\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-13) X Research source\n   \n   - In the vast majority of cases, the O-ring is the culprit for the leak.\n   - You can use petroleum jelly instead of plumber’s grease if you prefer.\n6. [![Step 6 Install new springs, valve seats, and cam washers.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/25\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-15-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-15-Version-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-15-Version-4.jpg)\n   6\n   **Install new springs, valve seats, and cam washers.** These are all be included in your kit, and should be essentially the reverse of the process you completed. Wherever you took a spring or washer off, install a replacement.[\\[14\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-14) X Research source\n   \n   - Even though the O-ring is likely to blame, replacing the springs and whatnot will keep you from needing to replace them in the near future.\n7. [![Step 7 Reassemble the handle and test your work.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3e\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-16-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-16-Version-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-16-Version-4.jpg)\n   7\n   **Reassemble the handle and test your work.** The leak should now be repaired, but double-check just to be sure. Turn the water on and let it run for a few minutes to wash out any debris. Then, check under the sink and around the faucet to confirm you don’t have water leaking anywhere.[\\[15\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-15) X Research source\n\nMethod 4\n\nMethod 4 of 5:\n\n### Cartridge Faucet\n\n[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet)\n\n1. [![Step 1 Remove the handle to access the valve underneath.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b8\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-17-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-17-Version-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-17-Version-4.jpg)\n   1\n   **Remove the handle to access the valve underneath.** Pry off the decorative cap if you have one. Then, look for a small opening on each handle where the screw goes. Use a small screwdriver to unscrew the fastener and then remove the handles.[\\[16\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-16)X [Expert Source](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Dave Jones](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b4\/Dave_Jones.png\/-crop-100-100-100px-Dave_Jones.png)Dave Jones Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Dave-Jones) Expert Interview\n   \n   - If you don’t see any screw slots, try gently prying the handle up by hand or twisting it “backwards” until it comes off.\n2. [![Step 2 Remove the retaining clip if necessary.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/02\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-18-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-18-Version-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-18-Version-4.jpg)\n   2\n   **Remove the retaining clip if necessary.** In some niche models, a retaining clip holds the cartridge in place. This is a circular, threaded piece that’s usually made of plastic. Use pliers to pry it off of the cartridge.[\\[17\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-17) X Research source\n3. [![Step 3 Pull the cartridge out or stand it up straight.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/8b\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-19-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-19-Version-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-19-Version-4.jpg)\n   3\n   **Pull the cartridge out or stand it up straight.** The cartridge may come right out. If it doesn’t, pull it up until you hear a click. This is the position the cartridge sits in when the water is on full blast.[\\[18\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-18) X Research source\n4. [![Step 4 Remove the faucet spout if the cartridge doesn’t come out.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/66\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-20-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-20-Version-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-20-Version-4.jpg)\n   4\n   **Remove the faucet spout if the cartridge doesn’t come out.** Slide the spout up off of the cartridge and set it aside. Locate the O-rings at the base of the cartridge.\n5. [![Step 5 Replace the O-rings or swap out the cartridge entirely.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/62\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-21-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-21-Version-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-21-Version-4.jpg)\n   5\n   **Replace the O-rings or swap out the cartridge entirely.** If your cartridge looks undamaged and it’s inside the faucet opening, simply clean it off with a damp cloth and replace the O-ring. However, if the cartridge looks damaged or it simply looks unreasonably old, purchase a replacement and stick it inside the opening.[\\[19\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-19)X [Expert Source](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Dave Jones](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b4\/Dave_Jones.png\/-crop-100-100-100px-Dave_Jones.png)Dave Jones Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Dave-Jones) Expert Interview\n   \n   - The cartridge will click in place when you insert it. There’s only one way for the cartridge to go in, so it’s impossible to get this one wrong.\n   - You must purchase a replacement cartridge designed specifically for your faucet brand and model.\n6. [![Step 6 Reassemble the handle and confirm everything works.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/4d\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-22-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-22-Version-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-22-Version-4.jpg)\n   6\n   **Reassemble the handle and confirm everything works.** The leak should now be repaired. Put the handle back over the cartridge, install the retaining clip if there was one, and turn the water back on to confirm everything is smooth.[\\[20\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-20) X Research source\n\nMethod 5\n\nMethod 5 of 5:\n\n### Ceramic-Disk Faucet\n\n[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet)\n\n1. [![Step 1 Take out the handle and remove the escutcheon cap.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/dd\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-23-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-23-Version-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-23-Version-4.jpg)\n   1\n   **Take out the handle and remove the escutcheon cap.** Unscrew the handle by turning it counterclockwise until it comes loose or removing the fastener holding the handle in place. Locate the escutcheon, which sits directly beneath the handle and is usually made of metal. Lift the escutcheon off to reveal the cylinders underneath.[\\[21\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-21) X Research source\n2. [![Step 2 Unscrew and remove the disk cylinder.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/09\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-24-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-24-Version-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-24-Version-4.jpg)\n   2\n   **Unscrew and remove the disk cylinder.** Every ceramic-disk faucet is going to be different, but you typically use a screwdriver to loosen the retainer nut or mounting screw that holds the disk cylinder in place. Then, lift the cylinder out of the opening in your faucet.[\\[22\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-22) X Research source\n   \n   - Depending on the design of your faucet, you may have multiple disk cylinders. Take all of them out if you do, but note the way they’re arranged on top of one another.\n3. [![Step 3 Pry out the seals and clean the cylinders.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/dd\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-25-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-25-Version-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-25-Version-4.jpg)\n   3\n   **Pry out the seals and clean the cylinders.** White vinegar would work well for this, especially if you have hard water. Soak the disk(s) for 2-3 hours to work out the build-up and then assess whether or not they're reusable.[\\[23\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-23) X Research source\n   \n   - Use your gut with the disks. If they look like trash, they probably need to be replaced.\n4. [![Step 4 Replace the seals or cylinder disk if they look damaged.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/8b\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-26-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-26-Version-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-26-Version-4.jpg)\n   4\n   **Replace the seals or cylinder disk if they look damaged.** If the seals look pitted, frayed, thin, or otherwise worn but the disk is fine, simply take it to the home improvement store and buy a replacement. Otherwise, purchase a new disk deigned specifically for your faucet model.[\\[24\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-24) X Research source\n5. [![Step 5 Reassemble the handle and turn the water on.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3e\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-27-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-27-Version-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-27-Version-4.jpg)\n   5\n   **Reassemble the handle and turn the water on.** Put everything back the way it originally was. Then, turn the handle for a few minutes to allow the water to flush out any debris. Check under the sink and around the faucet handles for leaks to confirm everything works.[\\[25\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-25) X Research source\n\n## Expert Q\\&A\nSearch\n\n[Add New Question]()\n\n- Question\n  \n  Do I need to shut off the main water supply before I do this?\n  \n  [![David Balkan](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d4\/David_Balkan.png\/-crop-200-200-200px-David_Balkan.png)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/David-Balkan)\n  \n  [David Balkan](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/David-Balkan)    \n   Professional Plumber & CEO of Balkan Sewer & Water Main\n  \n  David Balkan is a Professional Plumber, CEO of Balkan Sewer and Water Main Service, and President of Balkan Sewer and Drain Cleaning. As a hands-on owner of these companies for over 40 years, David is knowledgeable about water service lines, sewers, and drain line issues. David is a Committee Chairman of the Master Plumbers Council and has sat on the Executive Committee of the Sub Surface Plumbers Association of New York for over 30 years. His knowledge and solution-oriented approach contributed to Balkan Sewer and Water Main Service being the largest and most trusted service in New York City and the recipient of the 2017 Angie’s List Super Service Award.\n  \n  [![David Balkan](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d4\/David_Balkan.png\/-crop-200-200-200px-David_Balkan.png)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/David-Balkan)\n  \n  [David Balkan](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/David-Balkan)\n  \n  Professional Plumber & CEO of Balkan Sewer & Water Main\n  \n  Expert Answer\n  \n  No, every sink has its own shutoff valve that you can use. It should be under the sink. You just need to turn the water supply to the sink off.\n  \n  **Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.**  \n   **Thank you for your feedback.**  \n    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even \\$1 helps us in our mission.  [Support wikiHow](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Contribute)\n  \n  [Yes](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) [No](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet)\n  \n  [Not Helpful 10](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) [Helpful 17](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet)\n- Question\n  \n  My compression faucet handles are solid and there are no screws anywhere. What should I do?\n  \n  ![wikiHow Staff Editor](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/7c\/WHInitials.png\/-crop-100-100-100px-WHInitials.png)\n  \n  [wikiHow Staff Editor](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Content-Management)  \n   Staff Answer\n  \n  This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.\n  \n  ![wikiHow Staff Editor](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/7c\/WHInitials.png\/-crop-100-100-100px-WHInitials.png)\n  \n  wikiHow Staff Editor\n  \n  Staff Answer\n  \n  See the seam where the handle meets the faucet fixture? Slide a flathead screwdriver in that seam and pry the handles up.\n  \n  **Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.**  \n   **Thank you for your feedback.**  \n    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even \\$1 helps us in our mission.  [Support wikiHow](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Contribute)\n  \n  [Yes](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) [No](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet)\n  \n  [Not Helpful 7](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) [Helpful 14](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet)\n- Question\n  \n  My leak is located at the shut-off valve for cold water underneath the sink. What sort of parts do I need to buy?\n  \n  ![wikiHow Staff Editor](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/7c\/WHInitials.png\/-crop-100-100-100px-WHInitials.png)\n  \n  [wikiHow Staff Editor](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Content-Management)  \n   Staff Answer\n  \n  This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.\n  \n  ![wikiHow Staff Editor](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/7c\/WHInitials.png\/-crop-100-100-100px-WHInitials.png)\n  \n  wikiHow Staff Editor\n  \n  Staff Answer\n  \n  Before you buy anything, grab a wrench and tighten the nut right behind the valve. The plumber's tape on that nut's threading can degrade over time which can cause a leak. Luckily, turning that nut a few times should fix it. If the leak is coming from under the sink, try tightening the nut under the sink handle. If none of this works, just replace the supply line entirely.\n  \n  **Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.**  \n   **Thank you for your feedback.**  \n    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even \\$1 helps us in our mission.  [Support wikiHow](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Contribute)\n  \n  [Yes](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) [No](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet)\n  \n  [Not Helpful 4](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) [Helpful 2](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet)\n\n[See more answers](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Questions\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#offset=3)\n\nAsk a Question\n\n200 characters left\n\nInclude your email address to get a message when this question is answered.\n\n[Submit]()\n\nAdvertisement\n\n## Video\n[Read Video Transcript](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet)\n\n## Tips\nSubmit a Tip\n\nAll tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published\n\nName\n\nPlease provide your name and last initial\n\n[Submit](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet)\n\nThanks for submitting a tip for review\\!\n\n## You Might Also Like\n[![Fix a Bathroom 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Interview\n[![](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/2f\/WikiHow-Expert-Interview-Transcript-Dave-Jones_sample.png\/340px-WikiHow-Expert-Interview-Transcript-Dave-Jones_sample.png)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#wh-dialog-sample_6aaf285287adc3bc87afbc98aa4bebe4)\n\nThanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about faucet repair, check out our in-depth [interview](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#wh-dialog-sample_6aaf285287adc3bc87afbc98aa4bebe4) with [Dave Jones](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Dave-Jones).\n\n## References\n1. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-1) David Balkan. Professional Plumber & CEO of Balkan Sewer & Water Main. Expert Interview\n2. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-2) Dave Jones. Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. Expert Interview\n3. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-3) <https:\/\/www.finehomebuilding.com\/project-guides\/plumbing\/whats-the-difference-faucet-valves>\n4. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-4) <https:\/\/home.howstuffworks.com\/home-improvement\/plumbing\/how-to-repair-a-faucet1.htm>\n5. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-5) <https:\/\/home.howstuffworks.com\/home-improvement\/plumbing\/how-to-repair-a-faucet1.htm>\n6. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-6) Dave Jones. Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. Expert Interview\n7. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-7) <https:\/\/home.howstuffworks.com\/home-improvement\/plumbing\/how-to-repair-a-faucet1.htm>\n8. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-8) Dave Jones. Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. Expert Interview\n9. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-9) <https:\/\/media.deltafaucet.com\/MandI\/27787-A_v1.pdf>\n\n[More References (16)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#aiinfo)\n\n1. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-10) [https:\/\/www.kissler.com\/Assets\/PDF\/BALL%20TYPE%20FAUCET%20REPAIR.pdf](https:\/\/www.kissler.com\/Assets\/PDF\/BALL%20TYPE%20FAUCET%20REPAIR.pdf)\n2. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-11) [https:\/\/www.kissler.com\/Assets\/PDF\/BALL%20TYPE%20FAUCET%20REPAIR.pdf](https:\/\/www.kissler.com\/Assets\/PDF\/BALL%20TYPE%20FAUCET%20REPAIR.pdf)\n3. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-12) [https:\/\/www.kissler.com\/Assets\/PDF\/BALL%20TYPE%20FAUCET%20REPAIR.pdf](https:\/\/www.kissler.com\/Assets\/PDF\/BALL%20TYPE%20FAUCET%20REPAIR.pdf)\n4. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-13) [https:\/\/www.kissler.com\/Assets\/PDF\/BALL%20TYPE%20FAUCET%20REPAIR.pdf](https:\/\/www.kissler.com\/Assets\/PDF\/BALL%20TYPE%20FAUCET%20REPAIR.pdf)\n5. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-14) [https:\/\/www.kissler.com\/Assets\/PDF\/BALL%20TYPE%20FAUCET%20REPAIR.pdf](https:\/\/www.kissler.com\/Assets\/PDF\/BALL%20TYPE%20FAUCET%20REPAIR.pdf)\n6. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-15) <https:\/\/home.howstuffworks.com\/home-improvement\/plumbing\/how-to-repair-a-faucet1.htm>\n7. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-16) Dave Jones. Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. Expert Interview\n8. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-17) <https:\/\/solutions.moen.com\/Article_Library\/Installing_a_Cartridge_Clip_(1200_and_1225_Cartridge)>\n9. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-18) <https:\/\/www.finehomebuilding.com\/project-guides\/plumbing\/whats-the-difference-faucet-valves>\n10. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-19) Dave Jones. Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. Expert Interview\n11. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-20) <https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=F4LeAVpTdds>\n12. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-21) <https:\/\/www.moneypit.com\/repair-two-handle-ceramic-disc-faucet\/>\n13. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-22) <https:\/\/www.moneypit.com\/repair-two-handle-ceramic-disc-faucet\/>\n14. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-23) <https:\/\/www.thisoldhouse.com\/ideas\/fixing-leaky-faucet>\n15. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-24) <https:\/\/www.moneypit.com\/repair-two-handle-ceramic-disc-faucet\/>\n16. [↑](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-25) <https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=F4LeAVpTdds>\n\n## About This Article\n![Dave Jones](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b4\/Dave_Jones.png\/-crop-100-100-100px-Dave_Jones.png)\n\nCo-authored by:\n\n[Dave Jones](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Dave-Jones)\n\nMaster Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup\n\nThis article was co-authored by [Dave Jones](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Dave-Jones) and by wikiHow staff writer, [Eric McClure](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Eric-McClure). Dave Jones is a Professional Plumber and the Midwest Regional Vice President at Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. In 1992, Jones joined Roto-Rooter as a drain service technician at the age of 18. Since then, he has risen through the ranks into positions of increasing authority. Dave served as general manager of Roto-Rooter’s Charlotte, North Carolina, and Atlanta, Georgia branches before being promoted to Contractor Area Manager and later to Regional Vice President. Dave holds Master Plumber Licenses in Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Georgia. This article has been viewed 2,447,093 times.\n\n90 votes - 61%\n\nCo-authors: 56\n\nUpdated: February 19, 2026\n\nViews: 2,447,093\n\nCategories: [Faucet Repairs](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Category:Faucet-Repairs \"Category:Faucet Repairs\")\n\n[Article SummaryX](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#summary_wrapper)\n\nTo fix a leaky faucet, first turn off the water to your faucet by twisting the valve under the sink. If there’s no valve, turn off the water supply for your whole house. Turn the faucet on to empty any water in the pipes, and plug the drain so nothing falls down it while you’re working. If there’s a set screw behind the faucet handle, use an Allen wrench to remove it, then take the handle off. Alternatively, if there’s a top screw cover on the handle, pry it off with a flathead screwdriver, then loosen the screw beneath it and remove the handle. With the handle off, use a wrench to loosen and remove the nut in the handle assembly. Pull the handle cartridge up and out of the sink. Use a cloth to wipe down all of the loose parts and the area around the handle. If the O-ring looks old or damaged, replace it. Get a matching replacement for the old cartridge, then insert the new cartridge back into the sink. Now tighten the nut back into place with the wrench and reattach the handle. Finally, turn the water back on and check that your faucet is no longer leaking. If you need to learn how to fix a compression or cartridge faucet, keep reading\\!\n\nDid this summary help you?\n\nYes\n\nNo\n\n[In other languages](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#other_languages)\n\n[Spanish](https:\/\/es.wikihow.com\/reparar-un-grifo-que-gotea)\n\n[Italian](https:\/\/www.wikihow.it\/Riparare-un-Rubinetto-che-Perde)\n\n[French](https:\/\/fr.wikihow.com\/r%C3%A9parer-un-robinet-qui-coule)\n\n[Russian](https:\/\/ru.wikihow.com\/%D0%BF%D0%BE%D1%87%D0%B8%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%82%D1%8C-%D0%BF%D0%BE%D0%B4%D1%82%D0%B5%D0%BA%D0%B0%D1%8E%D1%89%D0%B8%D0%B9-%D1%81%D0%BC%D0%B5%D1%81%D0%B8%D1%82%D0%B5%D0%BB%D1%8C)\n\n[Indonesian](https:\/\/id.wikihow.com\/Memperbaiki-Keran-yang-Bocor)\n\n[Dutch](https:\/\/nl.wikihow.com\/Een-lekkende-kraan-repareren)\n\n[Chinese](https:\/\/zh.wikihow.com\/%E4%BF%AE%E7%90%86%E6%BC%8F%E6%B0%B4%E7%9A%84%E6%B0%B4%E9%BE%99%E5%A4%B4)\n\n[Arabic](https:\/\/ar.wikihow.com\/%D8%A5%D8%B5%D9%84%D8%A7%D8%AD-%D8%AA%D8%B3%D8%B1%D9%8A%D8%A8%D8%A7%D8%AA-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B5%D9%86%D8%A8%D9%88%D8%B1)\n\n[Czech](https:\/\/www.wikihow.cz\/Jak-kapajici-baterii)\n\n[Japanese](https:\/\/www.wikihow.jp\/%E8%9B%87%E5%8F%A3%E3%81%AE%E6%B0%B4%E6%BC%8F%E3%82%8C%E3%82%92%E4%BF%AE%E7%90%86%E3%81%99%E3%82%8B)\n\n- [Print](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet)\n- [Send fan mail to authors](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet)\n\nThanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 2,447,093 times.\n\n## Reader Success Stories\n- ![Jen B.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b0\/CommunityAvatar2.png\/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar2.png)\n  \n  Jen B.\n  \n  Oct 18, 2017\n  \"I didn't think a leaky faucet was something I could fix myself, but the steps for a compression faucet (which is what I have) were straightforward and easy to follow. Thanks!\"...\" [more](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet)\n\n[More reader stories](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) [Hide reader stories](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet)\n\n[Share your story](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet)\n\n[If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Content-Management#Sponsored-Content \"wikiHow:Content Management\").\n\n## Did this article help you?\nYes\n\nNo\n\nAdvertisement\n\nIf you buy through links on our site, we may [earn a commission](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Content-Management#Sponsored-Content \"wikiHow:Content Management\").\n\nCookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our [cookie policy](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/wikiHow:Cookie-Policy).\n\n![Dave Jones](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b4\/Dave_Jones.png\/-crop-100-100-100px-Dave_Jones.png)\n\nCo-authored by:\n\n[Dave Jones](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Dave-Jones)\n\nMaster Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup\n\n90 votes - 61%\n\nClick a star to vote\n\nCo-authors: 56\n\nUpdated: February 19, 2026\n\nViews: 2,447,093\n\n![Jen B.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b0\/CommunityAvatar2.png\/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar2.png)\n\nJen B.\n\nOct 18, 2017\n\n\"I didn't think a leaky faucet was something I could fix myself, but the steps for a compression faucet (which is what I have) were straightforward and easy to follow. Thanks!\"...\" [more](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet)\n\n![Robert Garcia Jr](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/0a\/CommunityAvatar1.png\/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar1.png)\n\nRobert Garcia Jr\n\nSep 14, 2017\n\n\"Posting articles such as the one I just covered is really helpful for the handy home repair man. Also, access to a tech is really helpful. Thanks and God Bless.\"...\" [more](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet)\n\n![Rachael Shirley](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f2\/CommunityAvatar3.png\/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar3.png)\n\nRachael Shirley\n\nJan 18, 2019\n\n\"My kitchen late in the evening: drip, drip, drip! Does my head in completely! But all is good again, thank you for saving me from \"water torture\".\"...\" [more](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet)\n\n![Cyndi Wilson](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f5\/CommunityAvatar4.png\/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar4.png)\n\nCyndi Wilson\n\nFeb 22, 2018\n\n\"Thank you for helping this 60 yr old widow! Simple instructions.\"\n\n![Ellen Anderson](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f5\/CommunityAvatar4.png\/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar4.png)\n\nEllen Anderson\n\nFeb 26, 2017\n\n\"I am 84 years old and have never replaced a leaky faucet before.\"\n\n[Share yours\\!](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) [More success stories](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) [Hide success stories](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet)\n\n### Quizzes & Games\n[![Finish the Phrase Quiz](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/ea\/Quiz-finish-the-phrase.png\/-crop-127-140-127px-Quiz-finish-the-phrase.png)Quiz Finish the Phrase QuizTake Quiz](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Finish-the-Phrase)\n\n[![What's My Hair Type Quiz](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/0e\/Hair_type_quiz_3.png\/-crop-127-140-127px-Hair_type_quiz_3.png)Quiz What's My Hair Type QuizTake Quiz](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Hair-Type-Quiz)\n\n[![OCD Test](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/4b\/Ocd_test_2.png\/-crop-127-140-127px-Ocd_test_2.png)Quiz OCD TestTake Quiz](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Ocd-Quiz)\n\n[![Apology Language Quiz](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/6c\/Apology-language-quiz-image.png\/-crop-127-140-127px-Apology-language-quiz-image.png)Quiz Apology Language QuizTake Quiz](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Relationships\/Apology-Language-Quiz)\n\n### You Might Also Like\n[![Fix a Bathroom Faucet](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/9f\/Fix-a-Bathroom-Faucet-Step-14-Version-2.jpg\/-crop-127-140-127px-Fix-a-Bathroom-Faucet-Step-14-Version-2.jpg)How to Fix a Bathroom Faucet](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Bathroom-Faucet)\n\n[![ Fix a Leaky Single-Handle Sink Faucet](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/bf\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Single-Handle-Step-19-Version-2.jpg\/-crop-127-140-127px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Single-Handle-Step-19-Version-2.jpg)How to Fix a Leaky Single-Handle Sink Faucet](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Single-Handle)\n\n[![ Stop a Sink Faucet Handle from Leaking Water](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b6\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Handle-Step-29.jpg\/-crop-127-140-127px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Handle-Step-29.jpg)How to Stop a Sink Faucet Handle from Leaking Water](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Handle)\n\n[![Fix a Leaky Bathroom Sink Faucet with a Double Handle](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/a6\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-20.jpg\/-crop-127-140-127px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-20.jpg)How to Fix a Leaky Bathroom Sink Faucet with a Double Handle](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle)\n\n### Trending Articles\n[![What Would I Go to Jail For?](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/42\/Arrange-for-Bail-While-in-Jail-Step-2-Version-4.jpg\/-crop-127-140-127px-Arrange-for-Bail-While-in-Jail-Step-2-Version-4.jpg)Quiz What Would I Go to Jail For?Take Quiz](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/What-Would-You-Go-to-Jail-for-Quiz)\n\n[![Am I Good at Flirting Quiz](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/df\/Good_at_flirting.png\/-crop-127-140-127px-Good_at_flirting.png)Quiz Am I Good at Flirting QuizTake Quiz](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Am-I-Good-at-Flirting-Quiz)\n\n[![Am I a Princess, Angel, Supermodel, or Baddie?](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/c\/c7\/Quiz-angel-princess-model-baddie.png\/-crop-127-140-127px-Quiz-angel-princess-model-baddie.png)Quiz Am I a Princess, Angel, Supermodel, or Baddie?Take Quiz](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Am-I-a-Princess,-Angel,-Supermodel-or-Baddie)\n\n[![What’s a Performative Male? 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Please contact [support@wikihow.pro](mailto:support@wikihow.pro).  \n  \nwikiHow Pro and wikiHow Digital Downloads are intended only for your personal, non-commercial use. wikiHow, Inc. reserves the right to terminate subscriptions to wikiHow Pro at any time for any reason.\n\nSomething went wrong\n\n[Dismiss]()","attrs_readable_markdown":"[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) [Listen to Summary](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet)Podcasts coming soon\\!\n\nA guide on fixing leaks an drips for a variety of faucet styles\n\n[![PDF download](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/extensions\/wikihow\/socialstamp\/images\/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) [Listen to Summary](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet)\n\n- [Preliminary Steps](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#Preliminary-Steps)\n- [Compression Faucet](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#Compression-Faucet)\n- [Ball Faucet](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#Ball-Faucet)\n- [Cartridge Faucet](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#Cartridge-Faucet)\n- [Ceramic-Disk Faucet](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#Ceramic-Disk-Faucet)\n- [Video](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#Video)\n- [Expert Interview](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#expertinterview)\n- [Expert Q\\&A](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#qa_headline)\n\nIf you’ve got a drippy faucet or a handle that spews water every time you turn it, you may be tempted to call a plumber. But what if you could solve the problem yourself and save some money in the process? It’s easy to fix a leaky faucet yourself. We’re going to help you figure out what kind of faucet you have and then walk you through the repair step by step, so read on to learn more.\n\n## How to Fix a Dripping Bathroom Faucet\nTurn off the water to the sink and stuff a rag in the drain. Disassemble the handles by looking for a small screw slot and unscrewing the fastener. If there’s no slot, pry the handle off manually. Depending on the style of sink, you’ll need to replace the rubber O-ring inside the valve or replace the entire assembly.\n\n1. [![Step 1 Turn off the water to your faucet.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/02\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-1-Version-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-1-Version-9.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-1-Version-9.jpg)\n   Look underneath your sink for the water supply lines that run up to the handles. Locate the valves where those pipes feed into the wall and turn them counterclockwise all the way. This will shut the water off and help you avoid making a mess.[\\[1\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-1)\n2. [![Step 2 Plug the drain to avoid losing any small parts.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/bc\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-2-Version-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-2-Version-9.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-2-Version-9.jpg)\n   Use a sink plug if you have one. If you don’t, shove a rag inside of the drain to block it. Nothing will ruin your day faster than watching a screw or washer you need slide down the drain when you accidentally drop it.[\\[2\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-2)\n3. [![Step 3 Figure out what type of faucet you have.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d4\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-3-Version-10.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-3-Version-10.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-3-Version-10.jpg)\n   There are tons of different styles out there, but there are really only 4 types of faucet assemblies. How you repair your faucet depends on the type of faucet, so figure this out first before proceeding. You may need to take your faucet apart before you can sort this out.[\\[3\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-3)\n   \n   - A **compression faucet** is the most basic type. It relies on a small stem that raises up or down to control the flow of water. Most “cheap” faucets are compression-style.\n   - A **ball faucet** contains a ball bearing. The faucets with a single handle where you move it left or right to make the water hot or cold are ball faucets.\n   - A **cartridge faucet** contains a cartridge that rotates to allow the flow of water. The materials of the cartridge will vary, but the handle often has a decorative cap. Most “fancy” faucets have cartridges.\n   - A **ceramic-disk faucet** contains 1-2 ceramic cylinders that spin to allow water to flow. The high-end faucets with the single handle on the side (not the back!) are usually ceramic-disk faucets.\n\n1. [![Step 1 Remove each handle with a screwdriver and gentle force.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3c\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-4-Version-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-4-Version-9.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-4-Version-9.jpg)\n   Pry off the decorative cap if there is one. If there are screw slot openings, grab a screwdriver and remove the fasteners. Then, take the handles off.[\\[4\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-4)\n   \n   - If you’re only adjusting one leaky faucet handle, you don’t need to remove both of the handles.\n   - The decorative cap might be a label for “hot” or “cold,” or it may be a little circular piece covering up a screw slot. Cheaper compression faucets are unlikely to have these pieces.\n2. [![Step 2 Use a wrench to remove the nut.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3b\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-5-Version-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-5-Version-9.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-5-Version-9.jpg)\n   There is a stem under the handle that sits on top of the O-ring, which sits on top of a seat washer. The seat washer is usually made of rubber, which can get worn out after a while. If your faucet is dripping, this is mostly likely the culprit.[\\[5\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-5)\n3. [![Step 3 Pull out the stem using a wrench or your hands.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d9\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-6-Version-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-6-Version-9.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-6-Version-9.jpg)\n   If the stem won’t come out when you twist it or pull on it, use a wrench to pry it out or unscrew it. This will expose the O-ring, which will be thinner, and the seat washer, which will be thicker. If the handles are leaky replace the O-ring. Take the old one to the hardware store and use it to find a replacement.[\\[6\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-6)\n   \n   - Reassemble the faucet handle and test the water once you replace the O-ring.\n4. [![Step 4 Remove the seat valve washer.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/17\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-7-Version-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-7-Version-9.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-7-Version-9.jpg)\n   This is the upside-down brass screw. Either unscrew it by hand, or use a wrench to loosen and remove the valve washer. If your faucet is leaking, this is probably the main culprit.[\\[7\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-7)\n5. [![Step 5 Replace the seat washer with an exact replica.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/26\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-8-Version-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-8-Version-9.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-8-Version-9.jpg)\n   Since these washers aren’t universal, take it with you to the hardware store to find a replacement. If you can’t find a replacement, contact your faucet’s manufacturer to order one directly from them. Coat the replacement in [plumber’s grease](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/s?k=plumber%27s+grease&crid=18C5MUZYYSUDI&sprefix=plumber%27s+greas%2Caps%2C112&ref=nb_sb_noss_2&tag=wikihow4570-20) before installing it back in the valve.[\\[8\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-8)\n   \n   - You can use petroleum jelly instead of plumber’s grease if you prefer.\n6. [![Step 6 Reassemble each handle and check your work.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/a1\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-9-Version-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-9-Version-9.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-9-Version-9.jpg)\n   Put everything back together the same way you took them apart. Tighten any screws or fasteners you removed. Then, turn the water on and let it run for a few minutes to wash out any debris. Any minor leaks should now be fixed.\n   \n   - If you do find any leaks, confirm that you installed the O-ring and seat washer correctly. If there’s still a leak, you likely have to replace the entire faucet.\n\n1. [![Step 1 Buy a replacement...](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d3\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-10-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-10-Version-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-10-Version-4.jpg)\n   **Buy a [**replacement kit**](https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/s?k=ball+faucet+repair+kit&sprefix=ball+fauce%2Caps%2C113&ref=nb_sb_ss_ts-doa-p_2_10&tag=wikihow4570-20) for your ball faucet.** Ball faucets have several parts that require replacement. They need special tools, too. You won't need to replace the entire faucet, just the faucet cam assembly. All of the stuff you'll need, including the tools, should be included in this type of kit that runs about \\$20.[\\[9\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-9)\n   \n   - Look for a kit that specifically mentions your specific faucet brand and model as compatible.\n2. [![Step 2 Unscrew the handle and remove it.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b6\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-11-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-11-Version-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-11-Version-4.jpg)\n   Lift off the handle and place it aside. You may need to unscrew a small faster that holds the lever in place on top of the ball cap. Pop off the spout and handle.[\\[10\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-10)\n3. [![Step 3 Use pliers to remove the cap and collar.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/5a\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-12-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-12-Version-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-12-Version-4.jpg)\n   Loosen the faucet cam, which is the threaded bit on top of the entire valve assembly. There is a specific tool in your replacement kit for this purpose, so follow the instructions that came with your kit. Remove the faucet cam, washer, and ball.[\\[11\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-11)\n   \n   - This will look like a \"ball and socket\" joint in your body—a movable (usually white) rubber ball plugs the socket, which stops the water and releases it.\n4. [![Step 4 Remove the inlet seals and springs.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/14\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-13-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-13-Version-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-13-Version-4.jpg)\n   Reach inside of the faucet body using needle-nose pliers and pull out the small seals and springs. Note how these components are attached to the valve, which should help when it’s time to reassemble your faucet.[\\[12\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-12)\n5. [![Step 5 Replace the O-rings by sliding them on by hand.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/dd\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-14-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-14-Version-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-14-Version-4.jpg)\n   Cut off the old O-ring and coat the new one in plumber’s grease. Slide it onto the assembly where the old O-ring was located.[\\[13\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-13)\n   \n   - In the vast majority of cases, the O-ring is the culprit for the leak.\n   - You can use petroleum jelly instead of plumber’s grease if you prefer.\n6. [![Step 6 Install new springs, valve seats, and cam washers.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/25\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-15-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-15-Version-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-15-Version-4.jpg)\n   These are all be included in your kit, and should be essentially the reverse of the process you completed. Wherever you took a spring or washer off, install a replacement.[\\[14\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-14)\n   \n   - Even though the O-ring is likely to blame, replacing the springs and whatnot will keep you from needing to replace them in the near future.\n7. [![Step 7 Reassemble the handle and test your work.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3e\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-16-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-16-Version-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-16-Version-4.jpg)\n   The leak should now be repaired, but double-check just to be sure. Turn the water on and let it run for a few minutes to wash out any debris. Then, check under the sink and around the faucet to confirm you don’t have water leaking anywhere.[\\[15\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-15)\n\n1. [![Step 1 Remove the handle to access the valve underneath.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b8\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-17-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-17-Version-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-17-Version-4.jpg)\n   Pry off the decorative cap if you have one. Then, look for a small opening on each handle where the screw goes. Use a small screwdriver to unscrew the fastener and then remove the handles.[\\[16\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-16)\n   \n   - If you don’t see any screw slots, try gently prying the handle up by hand or twisting it “backwards” until it comes off.\n2. [![Step 2 Remove the retaining clip if necessary.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/02\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-18-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-18-Version-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-18-Version-4.jpg)\n   In some niche models, a retaining clip holds the cartridge in place. This is a circular, threaded piece that’s usually made of plastic. Use pliers to pry it off of the cartridge.[\\[17\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-17)\n3. [![Step 3 Pull the cartridge out or stand it up straight.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/8b\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-19-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-19-Version-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-19-Version-4.jpg)\n   The cartridge may come right out. If it doesn’t, pull it up until you hear a click. This is the position the cartridge sits in when the water is on full blast.[\\[18\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-18)\n4. [![Step 4 Remove the faucet spout if the cartridge doesn’t come out.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/66\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-20-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-20-Version-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-20-Version-4.jpg)\n   Slide the spout up off of the cartridge and set it aside. Locate the O-rings at the base of the cartridge.\n5. [![Step 5 Replace the O-rings or swap out the cartridge entirely.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/62\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-21-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-21-Version-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-21-Version-4.jpg)\n   If your cartridge looks undamaged and it’s inside the faucet opening, simply clean it off with a damp cloth and replace the O-ring. However, if the cartridge looks damaged or it simply looks unreasonably old, purchase a replacement and stick it inside the opening.[\\[19\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-19)\n   \n   - The cartridge will click in place when you insert it. There’s only one way for the cartridge to go in, so it’s impossible to get this one wrong.\n   - You must purchase a replacement cartridge designed specifically for your faucet brand and model.\n6. [![Step 6 Reassemble the handle and confirm everything works.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/4d\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-22-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-22-Version-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-22-Version-4.jpg)\n   The leak should now be repaired. Put the handle back over the cartridge, install the retaining clip if there was one, and turn the water back on to confirm everything is smooth.[\\[20\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-20)\n\n1. [![Step 1 Take out the handle and remove the escutcheon cap.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/dd\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-23-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-23-Version-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-23-Version-4.jpg)\n   Unscrew the handle by turning it counterclockwise until it comes loose or removing the fastener holding the handle in place. Locate the escutcheon, which sits directly beneath the handle and is usually made of metal. Lift the escutcheon off to reveal the cylinders underneath.[\\[21\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-21)\n2. [![Step 2 Unscrew and remove the disk cylinder.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/09\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-24-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-24-Version-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-24-Version-4.jpg)\n   Every ceramic-disk faucet is going to be different, but you typically use a screwdriver to loosen the retainer nut or mounting screw that holds the disk cylinder in place. Then, lift the cylinder out of the opening in your faucet.[\\[22\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-22)\n   \n   - Depending on the design of your faucet, you may have multiple disk cylinders. Take all of them out if you do, but note the way they’re arranged on top of one another.\n3. [![Step 3 Pry out the seals and clean the cylinders.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/dd\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-25-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-25-Version-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-25-Version-4.jpg)\n   White vinegar would work well for this, especially if you have hard water. Soak the disk(s) for 2-3 hours to work out the build-up and then assess whether or not they're reusable.[\\[23\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-23)\n   \n   - Use your gut with the disks. If they look like trash, they probably need to be replaced.\n4. [![Step 4 Replace the seals or cylinder disk if they look damaged.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/8b\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-26-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-26-Version-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-26-Version-4.jpg)\n   If the seals look pitted, frayed, thin, or otherwise worn but the disk is fine, simply take it to the home improvement store and buy a replacement. Otherwise, purchase a new disk deigned specifically for your faucet model.[\\[24\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-24)\n5. [![Step 5 Reassemble the handle and turn the water on.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3e\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-27-Version-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-27-Version-4.jpg)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#\/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-27-Version-4.jpg)\n   Put everything back the way it originally was. Then, turn the handle for a few minutes to allow the water to flush out any debris. Check under the sink and around the faucet handles for leaks to confirm everything works.[\\[25\\]](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-25)\n\nSearch\n\n[Add New Question]()\n\n- Question\n  \n  Do I need to shut off the main water supply before I do this?\n  \n  [![David Balkan](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d4\/David_Balkan.png\/-crop-200-200-200px-David_Balkan.png)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/David-Balkan)\n  \n  [David Balkan](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/David-Balkan)    \n   Professional Plumber & CEO of Balkan Sewer & Water Main\n  \n  David Balkan is a Professional Plumber, CEO of Balkan Sewer and Water Main Service, and President of Balkan Sewer and Drain Cleaning. As a hands-on owner of these companies for over 40 years, David is knowledgeable about water service lines, sewers, and drain line issues. David is a Committee Chairman of the Master Plumbers Council and has sat on the Executive Committee of the Sub Surface Plumbers Association of New York for over 30 years. His knowledge and solution-oriented approach contributed to Balkan Sewer and Water Main Service being the largest and most trusted service in New York City and the recipient of the 2017 Angie’s List Super Service Award.\n  \n  [![David Balkan](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d4\/David_Balkan.png\/-crop-200-200-200px-David_Balkan.png)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/David-Balkan)\n  \n  Professional Plumber & CEO of Balkan Sewer & Water Main\n  \n  Expert Answer\n  \n  No, every sink has its own shutoff valve that you can use. It should be under the sink. You just need to turn the water supply to the sink off.\n- Question\n  \n  My compression faucet handles are solid and there are no screws anywhere. What should I do?\n  \n  ![wikiHow Staff Editor](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/7c\/WHInitials.png\/-crop-100-100-100px-WHInitials.png)\n  \n  This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.\n  \n  ![wikiHow Staff Editor](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/7c\/WHInitials.png\/-crop-100-100-100px-WHInitials.png)\n  \n  wikiHow Staff Editor\n  \n  Staff Answer\n  \n  See the seam where the handle meets the faucet fixture? Slide a flathead screwdriver in that seam and pry the handles up.\n- Question\n  \n  My leak is located at the shut-off valve for cold water underneath the sink. What sort of parts do I need to buy?\n  \n  ![wikiHow Staff Editor](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/7c\/WHInitials.png\/-crop-100-100-100px-WHInitials.png)\n  \n  This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.\n  \n  ![wikiHow Staff Editor](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/7c\/WHInitials.png\/-crop-100-100-100px-WHInitials.png)\n  \n  wikiHow Staff Editor\n  \n  Staff Answer\n  \n  Before you buy anything, grab a wrench and tighten the nut right behind the valve. The plumber's tape on that nut's threading can degrade over time which can cause a leak. Luckily, turning that nut a few times should fix it. If the leak is coming from under the sink, try tightening the nut under the sink handle. If none of this works, just replace the supply line entirely.\n\n[See more answers](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Questions\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#offset=3)\n\nAsk a Question\n\n200 characters left\n\nInclude your email address to get a message when this question is answered.\n\n[Submit]()\n\nAdvertisement\n\nThanks for submitting a tip for review\\!\n\n[![](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/2f\/WikiHow-Expert-Interview-Transcript-Dave-Jones_sample.png\/340px-WikiHow-Expert-Interview-Transcript-Dave-Jones_sample.png)](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#wh-dialog-sample_6aaf285287adc3bc87afbc98aa4bebe4)\n\nThanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about faucet repair, check out our in-depth [interview](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#wh-dialog-sample_6aaf285287adc3bc87afbc98aa4bebe4) with [Dave Jones](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Author\/Dave-Jones).\n## References\nAbout This Article\n\n[Article SummaryX](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#summary_wrapper)\n\nTo fix a leaky faucet, first turn off the water to your faucet by twisting the valve under the sink. If there’s no valve, turn off the water supply for your whole house. Turn the faucet on to empty any water in the pipes, and plug the drain so nothing falls down it while you’re working. If there’s a set screw behind the faucet handle, use an Allen wrench to remove it, then take the handle off. Alternatively, if there’s a top screw cover on the handle, pry it off with a flathead screwdriver, then loosen the screw beneath it and remove the handle. With the handle off, use a wrench to loosen and remove the nut in the handle assembly. Pull the handle cartridge up and out of the sink. Use a cloth to wipe down all of the loose parts and the area around the handle. If the O-ring looks old or damaged, replace it. Get a matching replacement for the old cartridge, then insert the new cartridge back into the sink. Now tighten the nut back into place with the wrench and reattach the handle. Finally, turn the water back on and check that your faucet is no longer leaking. If you need to learn how to fix a compression or cartridge faucet, keep reading\\!\n\nDid this summary help you?\n\nThanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 2,447,093 times.\n\nReader Success Stories\n\n- ![Jen B.](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/b0\/CommunityAvatar2.png\/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar2.png)\n  \n  Jen B.\n  \n  Oct 18, 2017\n  \"I didn't think a leaky faucet was something I could fix myself, but the steps for a compression faucet (which...\" [more](https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet)\n## Did this article help you?","meta_canonical":null,"ml_categories_json":"{\"\/Home_and_Garden\":999,\"\/Home_and_Garden\/Home_Improvement\":871,\"\/Home_and_Garden\/Home_Improvement\/Plumbing\":860}","ml_types_json":"{\"\/Article\":999,\"\/Article\/How_to\":828}","ml_intent_types_json":"{\"Informational\":926}","meta_language":"en","attrs_author":"Dave Jones","attrs_publish_time":0,"attrs_original_publish_time":1507113942,"attrs_is_republished":0,"attrs_nr_words":"4940","attrs_boilerpipe_nr_words":"2413","body_ext_links_number":23,"body_int_links_number":144,"meta_nofollow":0,"meta_noarchive":0,"props_was_rendered":1,"src_redirect":"","download_time_msec":391,"download_ttfb_msec":203,"download_size":127149}

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How to Fix a Leaky Faucet: Guides for Every Design and Style

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A guide on fixing leaks an drips for a variety of faucet styles If you've got a drippy faucet or a handle that spews water every time you turn it, you may be tempted to call a plumber. But what if you could solve the problem yourself and...

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Download Article Listen to Summary Podcasts coming soon! A guide on fixing leaks an drips for a variety of faucet styles Download Article Listen to Summary Preliminary Steps | Compression Faucet | Ball Faucet | Cartridge Faucet | Ceramic-Disk Faucet | Video | Expert Interview | Expert Q&A If you’ve got a drippy faucet or a handle that spews water every time you turn it, you may be tempted to call a plumber. But what if you could solve the problem yourself and save some money in the process? It’s easy to fix a leaky faucet yourself. We’re going to help you figure out what kind of faucet you have and then walk you through the repair step by step, so read on to learn more. How to Fix a Dripping Bathroom Faucet Turn off the water to the sink and stuff a rag in the drain. Disassemble the handles by looking for a small screw slot and unscrewing the fastener. If there’s no slot, pry the handle off manually. Depending on the style of sink, you’ll need to replace the rubber O-ring inside the valve or replace the entire assembly. Look underneath your sink for the water supply lines that run up to the handles. Locate the valves where those pipes feed into the wall and turn them counterclockwise all the way. This will shut the water off and help you avoid making a mess. [1] Use a sink plug if you have one. If you don’t, shove a rag inside of the drain to block it. Nothing will ruin your day faster than watching a screw or washer you need slide down the drain when you accidentally drop it. [2] There are tons of different styles out there, but there are really only 4 types of faucet assemblies. How you repair your faucet depends on the type of faucet, so figure this out first before proceeding. You may need to take your faucet apart before you can sort this out. [3] A compression faucet is the most basic type. It relies on a small stem that raises up or down to control the flow of water. Most “cheap” faucets are compression-style. A ball faucet contains a ball bearing. The faucets with a single handle where you move it left or right to make the water hot or cold are ball faucets. A cartridge faucet contains a cartridge that rotates to allow the flow of water. The materials of the cartridge will vary, but the handle often has a decorative cap. Most “fancy” faucets have cartridges. A ceramic-disk faucet contains 1-2 ceramic cylinders that spin to allow water to flow. The high-end faucets with the single handle on the side (not the back!) are usually ceramic-disk faucets. Advertisement Pry off the decorative cap if there is one. If there are screw slot openings, grab a screwdriver and remove the fasteners. Then, take the handles off. [4] If you’re only adjusting one leaky faucet handle, you don’t need to remove both of the handles. The decorative cap might be a label for “hot” or “cold,” or it may be a little circular piece covering up a screw slot. Cheaper compression faucets are unlikely to have these pieces. There is a stem under the handle that sits on top of the O-ring, which sits on top of a seat washer. The seat washer is usually made of rubber, which can get worn out after a while. If your faucet is dripping, this is mostly likely the culprit. [5] If the stem won’t come out when you twist it or pull on it, use a wrench to pry it out or unscrew it. This will expose the O-ring, which will be thinner, and the seat washer, which will be thicker. If the handles are leaky replace the O-ring. Take the old one to the hardware store and use it to find a replacement. [6] Reassemble the faucet handle and test the water once you replace the O-ring. This is the upside-down brass screw. Either unscrew it by hand, or use a wrench to loosen and remove the valve washer. If your faucet is leaking, this is probably the main culprit. [7] Since these washers aren’t universal, take it with you to the hardware store to find a replacement. If you can’t find a replacement, contact your faucet’s manufacturer to order one directly from them. Coat the replacement in plumber’s grease before installing it back in the valve. [8] You can use petroleum jelly instead of plumber’s grease if you prefer. Put everything back together the same way you took them apart. Tighten any screws or fasteners you removed. Then, turn the water on and let it run for a few minutes to wash out any debris. Any minor leaks should now be fixed. If you do find any leaks, confirm that you installed the O-ring and seat washer correctly. If there’s still a leak, you likely have to replace the entire faucet. Advertisement Buy a replacement kit for your ball faucet. Ball faucets have several parts that require replacement. They need special tools, too. You won't need to replace the entire faucet, just the faucet cam assembly. All of the stuff you'll need, including the tools, should be included in this type of kit that runs about $20. [9] Look for a kit that specifically mentions your specific faucet brand and model as compatible. Lift off the handle and place it aside. You may need to unscrew a small faster that holds the lever in place on top of the ball cap. Pop off the spout and handle. [10] Loosen the faucet cam, which is the threaded bit on top of the entire valve assembly. There is a specific tool in your replacement kit for this purpose, so follow the instructions that came with your kit. Remove the faucet cam, washer, and ball. [11] This will look like a "ball and socket" joint in your body—a movable (usually white) rubber ball plugs the socket, which stops the water and releases it. Reach inside of the faucet body using needle-nose pliers and pull out the small seals and springs. Note how these components are attached to the valve, which should help when it’s time to reassemble your faucet. [12] Cut off the old O-ring and coat the new one in plumber’s grease. Slide it onto the assembly where the old O-ring was located. [13] In the vast majority of cases, the O-ring is the culprit for the leak. You can use petroleum jelly instead of plumber’s grease if you prefer. These are all be included in your kit, and should be essentially the reverse of the process you completed. Wherever you took a spring or washer off, install a replacement. [14] Even though the O-ring is likely to blame, replacing the springs and whatnot will keep you from needing to replace them in the near future. The leak should now be repaired, but double-check just to be sure. Turn the water on and let it run for a few minutes to wash out any debris. Then, check under the sink and around the faucet to confirm you don’t have water leaking anywhere. [15] Advertisement Pry off the decorative cap if you have one. Then, look for a small opening on each handle where the screw goes. Use a small screwdriver to unscrew the fastener and then remove the handles. [16] If you don’t see any screw slots, try gently prying the handle up by hand or twisting it “backwards” until it comes off. In some niche models, a retaining clip holds the cartridge in place. This is a circular, threaded piece that’s usually made of plastic. Use pliers to pry it off of the cartridge. [17] The cartridge may come right out. If it doesn’t, pull it up until you hear a click. This is the position the cartridge sits in when the water is on full blast. [18] Slide the spout up off of the cartridge and set it aside. Locate the O-rings at the base of the cartridge. If your cartridge looks undamaged and it’s inside the faucet opening, simply clean it off with a damp cloth and replace the O-ring. However, if the cartridge looks damaged or it simply looks unreasonably old, purchase a replacement and stick it inside the opening. [19] The cartridge will click in place when you insert it. There’s only one way for the cartridge to go in, so it’s impossible to get this one wrong. You must purchase a replacement cartridge designed specifically for your faucet brand and model. The leak should now be repaired. Put the handle back over the cartridge, install the retaining clip if there was one, and turn the water back on to confirm everything is smooth. [20] Advertisement Unscrew the handle by turning it counterclockwise until it comes loose or removing the fastener holding the handle in place. Locate the escutcheon, which sits directly beneath the handle and is usually made of metal. Lift the escutcheon off to reveal the cylinders underneath. [21] Every ceramic-disk faucet is going to be different, but you typically use a screwdriver to loosen the retainer nut or mounting screw that holds the disk cylinder in place. Then, lift the cylinder out of the opening in your faucet. [22] Depending on the design of your faucet, you may have multiple disk cylinders. Take all of them out if you do, but note the way they’re arranged on top of one another. White vinegar would work well for this, especially if you have hard water. Soak the disk(s) for 2-3 hours to work out the build-up and then assess whether or not they're reusable. [23] Use your gut with the disks. If they look like trash, they probably need to be replaced. If the seals look pitted, frayed, thin, or otherwise worn but the disk is fine, simply take it to the home improvement store and buy a replacement. Otherwise, purchase a new disk deigned specifically for your faucet model. [24] Put everything back the way it originally was. Then, turn the handle for a few minutes to allow the water to flush out any debris. Check under the sink and around the faucet handles for leaks to confirm everything works. [25] Advertisement Search Add New Question Question Do I need to shut off the main water supply before I do this? David Balkan Professional Plumber & CEO of Balkan Sewer & Water Main David Balkan is a Professional Plumber, CEO of Balkan Sewer and Water Main Service, and President of Balkan Sewer and Drain Cleaning. As a hands-on owner of these companies for over 40 years, David is knowledgeable about water service lines, sewers, and drain line issues. David is a Committee Chairman of the Master Plumbers Council and has sat on the Executive Committee of the Sub Surface Plumbers Association of New York for over 30 years. His knowledge and solution-oriented approach contributed to Balkan Sewer and Water Main Service being the largest and most trusted service in New York City and the recipient of the 2017 Angie’s List Super Service Award. Professional Plumber & CEO of Balkan Sewer & Water Main Expert Answer No, every sink has its own shutoff valve that you can use. It should be under the sink. You just need to turn the water supply to the sink off. Question My compression faucet handles are solid and there are no screws anywhere. What should I do? This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness. wikiHow Staff Editor Staff Answer See the seam where the handle meets the faucet fixture? Slide a flathead screwdriver in that seam and pry the handles up. Question My leak is located at the shut-off valve for cold water underneath the sink. What sort of parts do I need to buy? This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness. wikiHow Staff Editor Staff Answer Before you buy anything, grab a wrench and tighten the nut right behind the valve. The plumber's tape on that nut's threading can degrade over time which can cause a leak. Luckily, turning that nut a few times should fix it. If the leak is coming from under the sink, try tightening the nut under the sink handle. If none of this works, just replace the supply line entirely. See more answers Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about faucet repair, check out our in-depth interview with Dave Jones . References About This Article Article Summary X To fix a leaky faucet, first turn off the water to your faucet by twisting the valve under the sink. If there’s no valve, turn off the water supply for your whole house. Turn the faucet on to empty any water in the pipes, and plug the drain so nothing falls down it while you’re working. If there’s a set screw behind the faucet handle, use an Allen wrench to remove it, then take the handle off. Alternatively, if there’s a top screw cover on the handle, pry it off with a flathead screwdriver, then loosen the screw beneath it and remove the handle. With the handle off, use a wrench to loosen and remove the nut in the handle assembly. Pull the handle cartridge up and out of the sink. Use a cloth to wipe down all of the loose parts and the area around the handle. If the O-ring looks old or damaged, replace it. Get a matching replacement for the old cartridge, then insert the new cartridge back into the sink. Now tighten the nut back into place with the wrench and reattach the handle. Finally, turn the water back on and check that your faucet is no longer leaking. If you need to learn how to fix a compression or cartridge faucet, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 2,447,093 times. Reader Success Stories Jen B. Oct 18, 2017 "I didn't think a leaky faucet was something I could fix myself, but the steps for a compression faucet (which ..." more Did this article help you?

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Learn why people **trust wikiHow**](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) - [Categories](https://www.wikihow.com/Special:CategoryListing "Special:CategoryListing") - [Home and Garden](https://www.wikihow.com/Category:Home-and-Garden "Category:Home and Garden") - [DIY](https://www.wikihow.com/Category:DIY "Category:DIY") - [Plumbing](https://www.wikihow.com/Category:Plumbing "Category:Plumbing") - [Faucets and Taps](https://www.wikihow.com/Category:Faucets-and-Taps "Category:Faucets and Taps") - [Faucet Repairs](https://www.wikihow.com/Category:Faucet-Repairs "Category:Faucet Repairs") # [How to Repair a Faucet That Leaks](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) [![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) [Listen to Summary](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet)Podcasts coming soon\! A guide on fixing leaks an drips for a variety of faucet styles **Co-authored by** [Dave Jones](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Dave-Jones) and [Eric McClure](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Eric-McClure) [Last Updated: February 19, 2026](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) [Fact Checked](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) [![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) [Listen to Summary](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) - [Preliminary Steps](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#Preliminary-Steps) - [Compression Faucet](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#Compression-Faucet) - [Ball Faucet](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#Ball-Faucet) - [Cartridge Faucet](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#Cartridge-Faucet) - [Ceramic-Disk Faucet](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#Ceramic-Disk-Faucet) - [Video](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#Video) - [Expert Interview](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#expertinterview) - [Expert Q\&A](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#qa_headline) \|Show more \|Show less [ARTICLE](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#steps_1) [VIDEO](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#Video) X This article was co-authored by [Dave Jones](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Dave-Jones) and by wikiHow staff writer, [Eric McClure](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Eric-McClure). Dave Jones is a Professional Plumber and the Midwest Regional Vice President at Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. In 1992, Jones joined Roto-Rooter as a drain service technician at the age of 18. Since then, he has risen through the ranks into positions of increasing authority. Dave served as general manager of Roto-Rooter’s Charlotte, North Carolina, and Atlanta, Georgia branches before being promoted to Contractor Area Manager and later to Regional Vice President. Dave holds Master Plumber Licenses in Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Georgia. There are [10 references](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#References) cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 2,447,093 times. If you’ve got a drippy faucet or a handle that spews water every time you turn it, you may be tempted to call a plumber. But what if you could solve the problem yourself and save some money in the process? It’s easy to fix a leaky faucet yourself. We’re going to help you figure out what kind of faucet you have and then walk you through the repair step by step, so read on to learn more. ## How to Fix a Dripping Bathroom Faucet Turn off the water to the sink and stuff a rag in the drain. Disassemble the handles by looking for a small screw slot and unscrewing the fastener. If there’s no slot, pry the handle off manually. Depending on the style of sink, you’ll need to replace the rubber O-ring inside the valve or replace the entire assembly. ## Steps Method 1 Method 1 of 5: ### Preliminary Steps [![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) 1. [![Step 1 Turn off the water to your faucet.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/0/02/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-1-Version-9.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-1-Version-9.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-1-Version-9.jpg) 1 **Turn off the water to your faucet.** Look underneath your sink for the water supply lines that run up to the handles. Locate the valves where those pipes feed into the wall and turn them counterclockwise all the way. This will shut the water off and help you avoid making a mess.[\[1\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-1)X [Expert Source](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![David Balkan](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/d/d4/David_Balkan.png/-crop-100-100-100px-David_Balkan.png)David Balkan Professional Plumber & CEO of Balkan Sewer & Water Main](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/David-Balkan) Expert Interview 2. [![Step 2 Plug the drain to avoid losing any small parts.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/b/bc/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-2-Version-9.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-2-Version-9.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-2-Version-9.jpg) 2 **Plug the drain to avoid losing any small parts.** Use a sink plug if you have one. If you don’t, shove a rag inside of the drain to block it. Nothing will ruin your day faster than watching a screw or washer you need slide down the drain when you accidentally drop it.[\[2\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-2)X [Expert Source](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Dave Jones](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/b/b4/Dave_Jones.png/-crop-100-100-100px-Dave_Jones.png)Dave Jones Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Dave-Jones) Expert Interview 3. [![Step 3 Figure out what type of faucet you have.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/d/d4/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-3-Version-10.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-3-Version-10.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-3-Version-10.jpg) 3 **Figure out what type of faucet you have.** There are tons of different styles out there, but there are really only 4 types of faucet assemblies. How you repair your faucet depends on the type of faucet, so figure this out first before proceeding. You may need to take your faucet apart before you can sort this out.[\[3\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-3) X Research source - A **compression faucet** is the most basic type. It relies on a small stem that raises up or down to control the flow of water. Most “cheap” faucets are compression-style. - A **ball faucet** contains a ball bearing. The faucets with a single handle where you move it left or right to make the water hot or cold are ball faucets. - A **cartridge faucet** contains a cartridge that rotates to allow the flow of water. The materials of the cartridge will vary, but the handle often has a decorative cap. Most “fancy” faucets have cartridges. - A **ceramic-disk faucet** contains 1-2 ceramic cylinders that spin to allow water to flow. The high-end faucets with the single handle on the side (not the back!) are usually ceramic-disk faucets. Method 2 Method 2 of 5: ### Compression Faucet [![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) 1. [![Step 1 Remove each handle with a screwdriver and gentle force.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/3/3c/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-4-Version-9.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-4-Version-9.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-4-Version-9.jpg) 1 **Remove each handle with a screwdriver and gentle force.** Pry off the decorative cap if there is one. If there are screw slot openings, grab a screwdriver and remove the fasteners. Then, take the handles off.[\[4\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-4) X Research source - If you’re only adjusting one leaky faucet handle, you don’t need to remove both of the handles. - The decorative cap might be a label for “hot” or “cold,” or it may be a little circular piece covering up a screw slot. Cheaper compression faucets are unlikely to have these pieces. 2. [![Step 2 Use a wrench to remove the nut.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/3/3b/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-5-Version-9.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-5-Version-9.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-5-Version-9.jpg) 2 **Use a wrench to remove the nut.** There is a stem under the handle that sits on top of the O-ring, which sits on top of a seat washer. The seat washer is usually made of rubber, which can get worn out after a while. If your faucet is dripping, this is mostly likely the culprit.[\[5\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-5) X Research source 3. [![Step 3 Pull out the stem using a wrench or your hands.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/d/d9/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-6-Version-9.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-6-Version-9.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-6-Version-9.jpg) 3 **Pull out the stem using a wrench or your hands.** If the stem won’t come out when you twist it or pull on it, use a wrench to pry it out or unscrew it. This will expose the O-ring, which will be thinner, and the seat washer, which will be thicker. If the handles are leaky replace the O-ring. Take the old one to the hardware store and use it to find a replacement.[\[6\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-6)X [Expert Source](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Dave Jones](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/b/b4/Dave_Jones.png/-crop-100-100-100px-Dave_Jones.png)Dave Jones Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Dave-Jones) Expert Interview - Reassemble the faucet handle and test the water once you replace the O-ring. 4. [![Step 4 Remove the seat valve washer.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/1/17/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-7-Version-9.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-7-Version-9.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-7-Version-9.jpg) 4 **Remove the seat valve washer.** This is the upside-down brass screw. Either unscrew it by hand, or use a wrench to loosen and remove the valve washer. If your faucet is leaking, this is probably the main culprit.[\[7\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-7) X Research source 5. [![Step 5 Replace the seat washer with an exact replica.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/2/26/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-8-Version-9.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-8-Version-9.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-8-Version-9.jpg) 5 **Replace the seat washer with an exact replica.** Since these washers aren’t universal, take it with you to the hardware store to find a replacement. If you can’t find a replacement, contact your faucet’s manufacturer to order one directly from them. Coat the replacement in [plumber’s grease](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=plumber%27s+grease&crid=18C5MUZYYSUDI&sprefix=plumber%27s+greas%2Caps%2C112&ref=nb_sb_noss_2&tag=wikihow4570-20) before installing it back in the valve.[\[8\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-8)X [Expert Source](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Dave Jones](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/b/b4/Dave_Jones.png/-crop-100-100-100px-Dave_Jones.png)Dave Jones Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Dave-Jones) Expert Interview - You can use petroleum jelly instead of plumber’s grease if you prefer. 6. [![Step 6 Reassemble each handle and check your work.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/a/a1/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-9-Version-9.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-9-Version-9.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-9-Version-9.jpg) 6 **Reassemble each handle and check your work.** Put everything back together the same way you took them apart. Tighten any screws or fasteners you removed. Then, turn the water on and let it run for a few minutes to wash out any debris. Any minor leaks should now be fixed. - If you do find any leaks, confirm that you installed the O-ring and seat washer correctly. If there’s still a leak, you likely have to replace the entire faucet. Method 3 Method 3 of 5: ### Ball Faucet [![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) 1. [![Step 1 Buy a replacement...](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/d/d3/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-10-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-10-Version-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-10-Version-4.jpg) 1 **Buy a [**replacement kit**](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=ball+faucet+repair+kit&sprefix=ball+fauce%2Caps%2C113&ref=nb_sb_ss_ts-doa-p_2_10&tag=wikihow4570-20) for your ball faucet.** Ball faucets have several parts that require replacement. They need special tools, too. You won't need to replace the entire faucet, just the faucet cam assembly. All of the stuff you'll need, including the tools, should be included in this type of kit that runs about \$20.[\[9\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-9) X Research source - Look for a kit that specifically mentions your specific faucet brand and model as compatible. 2. [![Step 2 Unscrew the handle and remove it.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/b/b6/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-11-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-11-Version-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-11-Version-4.jpg) 2 **Unscrew the handle and remove it.** Lift off the handle and place it aside. You may need to unscrew a small faster that holds the lever in place on top of the ball cap. Pop off the spout and handle.[\[10\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-10) X Research source 3. [![Step 3 Use pliers to remove the cap and collar.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/5/5a/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-12-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-12-Version-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-12-Version-4.jpg) 3 **Use pliers to remove the cap and collar.** Loosen the faucet cam, which is the threaded bit on top of the entire valve assembly. There is a specific tool in your replacement kit for this purpose, so follow the instructions that came with your kit. Remove the faucet cam, washer, and ball.[\[11\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-11) X Research source - This will look like a "ball and socket" joint in your body—a movable (usually white) rubber ball plugs the socket, which stops the water and releases it. 4. [![Step 4 Remove the inlet seals and springs.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/1/14/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-13-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-13-Version-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-13-Version-4.jpg) 4 **Remove the inlet seals and springs.** Reach inside of the faucet body using needle-nose pliers and pull out the small seals and springs. Note how these components are attached to the valve, which should help when it’s time to reassemble your faucet.[\[12\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-12) X Research source 5. [![Step 5 Replace the O-rings by sliding them on by hand.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/d/dd/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-14-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-14-Version-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-14-Version-4.jpg) 5 **Replace the O-rings by sliding them on by hand.** Cut off the old O-ring and coat the new one in plumber’s grease. Slide it onto the assembly where the old O-ring was located.[\[13\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-13) X Research source - In the vast majority of cases, the O-ring is the culprit for the leak. - You can use petroleum jelly instead of plumber’s grease if you prefer. 6. [![Step 6 Install new springs, valve seats, and cam washers.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/2/25/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-15-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-15-Version-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-15-Version-4.jpg) 6 **Install new springs, valve seats, and cam washers.** These are all be included in your kit, and should be essentially the reverse of the process you completed. Wherever you took a spring or washer off, install a replacement.[\[14\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-14) X Research source - Even though the O-ring is likely to blame, replacing the springs and whatnot will keep you from needing to replace them in the near future. 7. [![Step 7 Reassemble the handle and test your work.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/3/3e/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-16-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-16-Version-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-16-Version-4.jpg) 7 **Reassemble the handle and test your work.** The leak should now be repaired, but double-check just to be sure. Turn the water on and let it run for a few minutes to wash out any debris. Then, check under the sink and around the faucet to confirm you don’t have water leaking anywhere.[\[15\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-15) X Research source Method 4 Method 4 of 5: ### Cartridge Faucet [![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) 1. [![Step 1 Remove the handle to access the valve underneath.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/b/b8/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-17-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-17-Version-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-17-Version-4.jpg) 1 **Remove the handle to access the valve underneath.** Pry off the decorative cap if you have one. Then, look for a small opening on each handle where the screw goes. Use a small screwdriver to unscrew the fastener and then remove the handles.[\[16\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-16)X [Expert Source](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Dave Jones](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/b/b4/Dave_Jones.png/-crop-100-100-100px-Dave_Jones.png)Dave Jones Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Dave-Jones) Expert Interview - If you don’t see any screw slots, try gently prying the handle up by hand or twisting it “backwards” until it comes off. 2. [![Step 2 Remove the retaining clip if necessary.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/0/02/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-18-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-18-Version-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-18-Version-4.jpg) 2 **Remove the retaining clip if necessary.** In some niche models, a retaining clip holds the cartridge in place. This is a circular, threaded piece that’s usually made of plastic. Use pliers to pry it off of the cartridge.[\[17\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-17) X Research source 3. [![Step 3 Pull the cartridge out or stand it up straight.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/8/8b/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-19-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-19-Version-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-19-Version-4.jpg) 3 **Pull the cartridge out or stand it up straight.** The cartridge may come right out. If it doesn’t, pull it up until you hear a click. This is the position the cartridge sits in when the water is on full blast.[\[18\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-18) X Research source 4. [![Step 4 Remove the faucet spout if the cartridge doesn’t come out.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/6/66/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-20-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-20-Version-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-20-Version-4.jpg) 4 **Remove the faucet spout if the cartridge doesn’t come out.** Slide the spout up off of the cartridge and set it aside. Locate the O-rings at the base of the cartridge. 5. [![Step 5 Replace the O-rings or swap out the cartridge entirely.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/6/62/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-21-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-21-Version-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-21-Version-4.jpg) 5 **Replace the O-rings or swap out the cartridge entirely.** If your cartridge looks undamaged and it’s inside the faucet opening, simply clean it off with a damp cloth and replace the O-ring. However, if the cartridge looks damaged or it simply looks unreasonably old, purchase a replacement and stick it inside the opening.[\[19\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-19)X [Expert Source](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Delivering-a-Trustworthy-Experience) [![Dave Jones](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/b/b4/Dave_Jones.png/-crop-100-100-100px-Dave_Jones.png)Dave Jones Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Dave-Jones) Expert Interview - The cartridge will click in place when you insert it. There’s only one way for the cartridge to go in, so it’s impossible to get this one wrong. - You must purchase a replacement cartridge designed specifically for your faucet brand and model. 6. [![Step 6 Reassemble the handle and confirm everything works.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/4/4d/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-22-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-22-Version-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-22-Version-4.jpg) 6 **Reassemble the handle and confirm everything works.** The leak should now be repaired. Put the handle back over the cartridge, install the retaining clip if there was one, and turn the water back on to confirm everything is smooth.[\[20\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-20) X Research source Method 5 Method 5 of 5: ### Ceramic-Disk Faucet [![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) 1. [![Step 1 Take out the handle and remove the escutcheon cap.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/d/dd/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-23-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-23-Version-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-23-Version-4.jpg) 1 **Take out the handle and remove the escutcheon cap.** Unscrew the handle by turning it counterclockwise until it comes loose or removing the fastener holding the handle in place. Locate the escutcheon, which sits directly beneath the handle and is usually made of metal. Lift the escutcheon off to reveal the cylinders underneath.[\[21\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-21) X Research source 2. [![Step 2 Unscrew and remove the disk cylinder.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/0/09/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-24-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-24-Version-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-24-Version-4.jpg) 2 **Unscrew and remove the disk cylinder.** Every ceramic-disk faucet is going to be different, but you typically use a screwdriver to loosen the retainer nut or mounting screw that holds the disk cylinder in place. Then, lift the cylinder out of the opening in your faucet.[\[22\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-22) X Research source - Depending on the design of your faucet, you may have multiple disk cylinders. Take all of them out if you do, but note the way they’re arranged on top of one another. 3. [![Step 3 Pry out the seals and clean the cylinders.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/d/dd/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-25-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-25-Version-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-25-Version-4.jpg) 3 **Pry out the seals and clean the cylinders.** White vinegar would work well for this, especially if you have hard water. Soak the disk(s) for 2-3 hours to work out the build-up and then assess whether or not they're reusable.[\[23\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-23) X Research source - Use your gut with the disks. If they look like trash, they probably need to be replaced. 4. [![Step 4 Replace the seals or cylinder disk if they look damaged.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/8/8b/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-26-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-26-Version-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-26-Version-4.jpg) 4 **Replace the seals or cylinder disk if they look damaged.** If the seals look pitted, frayed, thin, or otherwise worn but the disk is fine, simply take it to the home improvement store and buy a replacement. Otherwise, purchase a new disk deigned specifically for your faucet model.[\[24\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-24) X Research source 5. [![Step 5 Reassemble the handle and turn the water on.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/3/3e/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-27-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-27-Version-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-27-Version-4.jpg) 5 **Reassemble the handle and turn the water on.** Put everything back the way it originally was. Then, turn the handle for a few minutes to allow the water to flush out any debris. Check under the sink and around the faucet handles for leaks to confirm everything works.[\[25\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-25) X Research source ## Expert Q\&A Search [Add New Question]() - Question Do I need to shut off the main water supply before I do this? [![David Balkan](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/d/d4/David_Balkan.png/-crop-200-200-200px-David_Balkan.png)](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/David-Balkan) [David Balkan](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/David-Balkan) Professional Plumber & CEO of Balkan Sewer & Water Main David Balkan is a Professional Plumber, CEO of Balkan Sewer and Water Main Service, and President of Balkan Sewer and Drain Cleaning. As a hands-on owner of these companies for over 40 years, David is knowledgeable about water service lines, sewers, and drain line issues. David is a Committee Chairman of the Master Plumbers Council and has sat on the Executive Committee of the Sub Surface Plumbers Association of New York for over 30 years. His knowledge and solution-oriented approach contributed to Balkan Sewer and Water Main Service being the largest and most trusted service in New York City and the recipient of the 2017 Angie’s List Super Service Award. [![David Balkan](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/d/d4/David_Balkan.png/-crop-200-200-200px-David_Balkan.png)](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/David-Balkan) [David Balkan](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/David-Balkan) Professional Plumber & CEO of Balkan Sewer & Water Main Expert Answer No, every sink has its own shutoff valve that you can use. It should be under the sink. You just need to turn the water supply to the sink off. **Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.** **Thank you for your feedback.** If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even \$1 helps us in our mission. [Support wikiHow](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Contribute) [Yes](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) [No](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) [Not Helpful 10](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) [Helpful 17](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) - Question My compression faucet handles are solid and there are no screws anywhere. What should I do? ![wikiHow Staff Editor](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/7/7c/WHInitials.png/-crop-100-100-100px-WHInitials.png) [wikiHow Staff Editor](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Content-Management) Staff Answer This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness. ![wikiHow Staff Editor](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/7/7c/WHInitials.png/-crop-100-100-100px-WHInitials.png) wikiHow Staff Editor Staff Answer See the seam where the handle meets the faucet fixture? Slide a flathead screwdriver in that seam and pry the handles up. **Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.** **Thank you for your feedback.** If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even \$1 helps us in our mission. [Support wikiHow](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Contribute) [Yes](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) [No](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) [Not Helpful 7](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) [Helpful 14](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) - Question My leak is located at the shut-off valve for cold water underneath the sink. What sort of parts do I need to buy? ![wikiHow Staff Editor](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/7/7c/WHInitials.png/-crop-100-100-100px-WHInitials.png) [wikiHow Staff Editor](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Content-Management) Staff Answer This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness. ![wikiHow Staff Editor](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/7/7c/WHInitials.png/-crop-100-100-100px-WHInitials.png) wikiHow Staff Editor Staff Answer Before you buy anything, grab a wrench and tighten the nut right behind the valve. The plumber's tape on that nut's threading can degrade over time which can cause a leak. Luckily, turning that nut a few times should fix it. If the leak is coming from under the sink, try tightening the nut under the sink handle. If none of this works, just replace the supply line entirely. **Thanks! 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[Submit]() Advertisement ## Video [Read Video Transcript](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) ## Tips Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial [Submit](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) Thanks for submitting a tip for review\! ## You Might Also Like [![Fix a Bathroom Faucet](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/9/9f/Fix-a-Bathroom-Faucet-Step-14-Version-2.jpg/-crop-342-184-245px-Fix-a-Bathroom-Faucet-Step-14-Version-2.jpg.webp) How to Fix a Bathroom Faucet ![](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/9/9f/Fix-a-Bathroom-Faucet-Step-14-Version-2.jpg/-crop-342-184-245px-Fix-a-Bathroom-Faucet-Step-14-Version-2.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Bathroom-Faucet) [![Fix a Leaky Bathroom Sink Faucet with a Single 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![](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/a/ad/Repair-a-Delta-Brand-Kitchen-Faucet-Step-23.jpg/-crop-342-184-245px-Repair-a-Delta-Brand-Kitchen-Faucet-Step-23.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Repair-a-Delta-Brand-Kitchen-Faucet) Advertisement ## Expert Interview [![](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/2/2f/WikiHow-Expert-Interview-Transcript-Dave-Jones_sample.png/340px-WikiHow-Expert-Interview-Transcript-Dave-Jones_sample.png)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#wh-dialog-sample_6aaf285287adc3bc87afbc98aa4bebe4) Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about faucet repair, check out our in-depth [interview](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#wh-dialog-sample_6aaf285287adc3bc87afbc98aa4bebe4) with [Dave Jones](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Dave-Jones). ## References 1. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-1) David Balkan. Professional Plumber & CEO of Balkan Sewer & Water Main. Expert Interview 2. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-2) Dave Jones. Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. Expert Interview 3. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-3) <https://www.finehomebuilding.com/project-guides/plumbing/whats-the-difference-faucet-valves> 4. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-4) <https://home.howstuffworks.com/home-improvement/plumbing/how-to-repair-a-faucet1.htm> 5. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-5) <https://home.howstuffworks.com/home-improvement/plumbing/how-to-repair-a-faucet1.htm> 6. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-6) Dave Jones. Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. Expert Interview 7. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-7) <https://home.howstuffworks.com/home-improvement/plumbing/how-to-repair-a-faucet1.htm> 8. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-8) Dave Jones. Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. Expert Interview 9. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-9) <https://media.deltafaucet.com/MandI/27787-A_v1.pdf> [More References (16)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#aiinfo) 1. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-10) [https://www.kissler.com/Assets/PDF/BALL%20TYPE%20FAUCET%20REPAIR.pdf](https://www.kissler.com/Assets/PDF/BALL%20TYPE%20FAUCET%20REPAIR.pdf) 2. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-11) [https://www.kissler.com/Assets/PDF/BALL%20TYPE%20FAUCET%20REPAIR.pdf](https://www.kissler.com/Assets/PDF/BALL%20TYPE%20FAUCET%20REPAIR.pdf) 3. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-12) [https://www.kissler.com/Assets/PDF/BALL%20TYPE%20FAUCET%20REPAIR.pdf](https://www.kissler.com/Assets/PDF/BALL%20TYPE%20FAUCET%20REPAIR.pdf) 4. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-13) [https://www.kissler.com/Assets/PDF/BALL%20TYPE%20FAUCET%20REPAIR.pdf](https://www.kissler.com/Assets/PDF/BALL%20TYPE%20FAUCET%20REPAIR.pdf) 5. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-14) [https://www.kissler.com/Assets/PDF/BALL%20TYPE%20FAUCET%20REPAIR.pdf](https://www.kissler.com/Assets/PDF/BALL%20TYPE%20FAUCET%20REPAIR.pdf) 6. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-15) <https://home.howstuffworks.com/home-improvement/plumbing/how-to-repair-a-faucet1.htm> 7. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-16) Dave Jones. Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. Expert Interview 8. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-17) <https://solutions.moen.com/Article_Library/Installing_a_Cartridge_Clip_(1200_and_1225_Cartridge)> 9. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-18) <https://www.finehomebuilding.com/project-guides/plumbing/whats-the-difference-faucet-valves> 10. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-19) Dave Jones. Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. Expert Interview 11. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-20) <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F4LeAVpTdds> 12. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-21) <https://www.moneypit.com/repair-two-handle-ceramic-disc-faucet/> 13. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-22) <https://www.moneypit.com/repair-two-handle-ceramic-disc-faucet/> 14. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-23) <https://www.thisoldhouse.com/ideas/fixing-leaky-faucet> 15. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-24) <https://www.moneypit.com/repair-two-handle-ceramic-disc-faucet/> 16. [↑](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_ref-25) <https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F4LeAVpTdds> ## About This Article ![Dave Jones](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/b/b4/Dave_Jones.png/-crop-100-100-100px-Dave_Jones.png) Co-authored by: [Dave Jones](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Dave-Jones) Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup This article was co-authored by [Dave Jones](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Dave-Jones) and by wikiHow staff writer, [Eric McClure](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Eric-McClure). Dave Jones is a Professional Plumber and the Midwest Regional Vice President at Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup. In 1992, Jones joined Roto-Rooter as a drain service technician at the age of 18. Since then, he has risen through the ranks into positions of increasing authority. Dave served as general manager of Roto-Rooter’s Charlotte, North Carolina, and Atlanta, Georgia branches before being promoted to Contractor Area Manager and later to Regional Vice President. Dave holds Master Plumber Licenses in Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Georgia. This article has been viewed 2,447,093 times. 90 votes - 61% Co-authors: 56 Updated: February 19, 2026 Views: 2,447,093 Categories: [Faucet Repairs](https://www.wikihow.com/Category:Faucet-Repairs "Category:Faucet Repairs") [Article SummaryX](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#summary_wrapper) To fix a leaky faucet, first turn off the water to your faucet by twisting the valve under the sink. If there’s no valve, turn off the water supply for your whole house. Turn the faucet on to empty any water in the pipes, and plug the drain so nothing falls down it while you’re working. If there’s a set screw behind the faucet handle, use an Allen wrench to remove it, then take the handle off. Alternatively, if there’s a top screw cover on the handle, pry it off with a flathead screwdriver, then loosen the screw beneath it and remove the handle. With the handle off, use a wrench to loosen and remove the nut in the handle assembly. Pull the handle cartridge up and out of the sink. Use a cloth to wipe down all of the loose parts and the area around the handle. If the O-ring looks old or damaged, replace it. Get a matching replacement for the old cartridge, then insert the new cartridge back into the sink. Now tighten the nut back into place with the wrench and reattach the handle. Finally, turn the water back on and check that your faucet is no longer leaking. If you need to learn how to fix a compression or cartridge faucet, keep reading\! Did this summary help you? Yes No [In other languages](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#other_languages) [Spanish](https://es.wikihow.com/reparar-un-grifo-que-gotea) [Italian](https://www.wikihow.it/Riparare-un-Rubinetto-che-Perde) [French](https://fr.wikihow.com/r%C3%A9parer-un-robinet-qui-coule) [Russian](https://ru.wikihow.com/%D0%BF%D0%BE%D1%87%D0%B8%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%82%D1%8C-%D0%BF%D0%BE%D0%B4%D1%82%D0%B5%D0%BA%D0%B0%D1%8E%D1%89%D0%B8%D0%B9-%D1%81%D0%BC%D0%B5%D1%81%D0%B8%D1%82%D0%B5%D0%BB%D1%8C) [Indonesian](https://id.wikihow.com/Memperbaiki-Keran-yang-Bocor) [Dutch](https://nl.wikihow.com/Een-lekkende-kraan-repareren) [Chinese](https://zh.wikihow.com/%E4%BF%AE%E7%90%86%E6%BC%8F%E6%B0%B4%E7%9A%84%E6%B0%B4%E9%BE%99%E5%A4%B4) [Arabic](https://ar.wikihow.com/%D8%A5%D8%B5%D9%84%D8%A7%D8%AD-%D8%AA%D8%B3%D8%B1%D9%8A%D8%A8%D8%A7%D8%AA-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B5%D9%86%D8%A8%D9%88%D8%B1) [Czech](https://www.wikihow.cz/Jak-kapajici-baterii) [Japanese](https://www.wikihow.jp/%E8%9B%87%E5%8F%A3%E3%81%AE%E6%B0%B4%E6%BC%8F%E3%82%8C%E3%82%92%E4%BF%AE%E7%90%86%E3%81%99%E3%82%8B) - [Print](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) - [Send fan mail to authors](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 2,447,093 times. ## Reader Success Stories - ![Jen B.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/b/b0/CommunityAvatar2.png/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar2.png) Jen B. Oct 18, 2017 "I didn't think a leaky faucet was something I could fix myself, but the steps for a compression faucet (which is what I have) were straightforward and easy to follow. Thanks!"..." [more](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) [More reader stories](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) [Hide reader stories](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) [Share your story](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) [If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Content-Management#Sponsored-Content "wikiHow:Content Management"). ## Did this article help you? Yes No Advertisement If you buy through links on our site, we may [earn a commission](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Content-Management#Sponsored-Content "wikiHow:Content Management"). Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our [cookie policy](https://www.wikihow.com/wikiHow:Cookie-Policy). ![Dave Jones](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/b/b4/Dave_Jones.png/-crop-100-100-100px-Dave_Jones.png) Co-authored by: [Dave Jones](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Dave-Jones) Master Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup 90 votes - 61% Click a star to vote Co-authors: 56 Updated: February 19, 2026 Views: 2,447,093 ![Jen B.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/b/b0/CommunityAvatar2.png/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar2.png) Jen B. Oct 18, 2017 "I didn't think a leaky faucet was something I could fix myself, but the steps for a compression faucet (which is what I have) were straightforward and easy to follow. Thanks!"..." [more](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) ![Robert Garcia Jr](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/0/0a/CommunityAvatar1.png/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar1.png) Robert Garcia Jr Sep 14, 2017 "Posting articles such as the one I just covered is really helpful for the handy home repair man. Also, access to a tech is really helpful. Thanks and God Bless."..." [more](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) ![Rachael Shirley](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/f/f2/CommunityAvatar3.png/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar3.png) Rachael Shirley Jan 18, 2019 "My kitchen late in the evening: drip, drip, drip! Does my head in completely! But all is good again, thank you for saving me from "water torture"."..." [more](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) ![Cyndi Wilson](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/f/f5/CommunityAvatar4.png/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar4.png) Cyndi Wilson Feb 22, 2018 "Thank you for helping this 60 yr old widow! Simple instructions." ![Ellen Anderson](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/f/f5/CommunityAvatar4.png/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar4.png) Ellen Anderson Feb 26, 2017 "I am 84 years old and have never replaced a leaky faucet before." 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[![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) [Listen to Summary](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet)Podcasts coming soon\! A guide on fixing leaks an drips for a variety of faucet styles [![PDF download](https://www.wikihow.com/extensions/wikihow/socialstamp/images/icon-pdf.svg) Download Article](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) [Listen to Summary](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) - [Preliminary Steps](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#Preliminary-Steps) - [Compression Faucet](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#Compression-Faucet) - [Ball Faucet](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#Ball-Faucet) - [Cartridge Faucet](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#Cartridge-Faucet) - [Ceramic-Disk Faucet](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#Ceramic-Disk-Faucet) - [Video](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#Video) - [Expert Interview](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#expertinterview) - [Expert Q\&A](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#qa_headline) If you’ve got a drippy faucet or a handle that spews water every time you turn it, you may be tempted to call a plumber. But what if you could solve the problem yourself and save some money in the process? It’s easy to fix a leaky faucet yourself. We’re going to help you figure out what kind of faucet you have and then walk you through the repair step by step, so read on to learn more. ## How to Fix a Dripping Bathroom Faucet Turn off the water to the sink and stuff a rag in the drain. Disassemble the handles by looking for a small screw slot and unscrewing the fastener. If there’s no slot, pry the handle off manually. Depending on the style of sink, you’ll need to replace the rubber O-ring inside the valve or replace the entire assembly. 1. [![Step 1 Turn off the water to your faucet.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/0/02/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-1-Version-9.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-1-Version-9.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-1-Version-9.jpg) Look underneath your sink for the water supply lines that run up to the handles. Locate the valves where those pipes feed into the wall and turn them counterclockwise all the way. This will shut the water off and help you avoid making a mess.[\[1\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-1) 2. [![Step 2 Plug the drain to avoid losing any small parts.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/b/bc/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-2-Version-9.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-2-Version-9.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-2-Version-9.jpg) Use a sink plug if you have one. If you don’t, shove a rag inside of the drain to block it. Nothing will ruin your day faster than watching a screw or washer you need slide down the drain when you accidentally drop it.[\[2\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-2) 3. [![Step 3 Figure out what type of faucet you have.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/d/d4/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-3-Version-10.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-3-Version-10.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-3-Version-10.jpg) There are tons of different styles out there, but there are really only 4 types of faucet assemblies. How you repair your faucet depends on the type of faucet, so figure this out first before proceeding. You may need to take your faucet apart before you can sort this out.[\[3\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-3) - A **compression faucet** is the most basic type. It relies on a small stem that raises up or down to control the flow of water. Most “cheap” faucets are compression-style. - A **ball faucet** contains a ball bearing. The faucets with a single handle where you move it left or right to make the water hot or cold are ball faucets. - A **cartridge faucet** contains a cartridge that rotates to allow the flow of water. The materials of the cartridge will vary, but the handle often has a decorative cap. Most “fancy” faucets have cartridges. - A **ceramic-disk faucet** contains 1-2 ceramic cylinders that spin to allow water to flow. The high-end faucets with the single handle on the side (not the back!) are usually ceramic-disk faucets. 1. [![Step 1 Remove each handle with a screwdriver and gentle force.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/3/3c/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-4-Version-9.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-4-Version-9.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-4-Version-9.jpg) Pry off the decorative cap if there is one. If there are screw slot openings, grab a screwdriver and remove the fasteners. Then, take the handles off.[\[4\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-4) - If you’re only adjusting one leaky faucet handle, you don’t need to remove both of the handles. - The decorative cap might be a label for “hot” or “cold,” or it may be a little circular piece covering up a screw slot. Cheaper compression faucets are unlikely to have these pieces. 2. [![Step 2 Use a wrench to remove the nut.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/3/3b/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-5-Version-9.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-5-Version-9.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-5-Version-9.jpg) There is a stem under the handle that sits on top of the O-ring, which sits on top of a seat washer. The seat washer is usually made of rubber, which can get worn out after a while. If your faucet is dripping, this is mostly likely the culprit.[\[5\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-5) 3. [![Step 3 Pull out the stem using a wrench or your hands.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/d/d9/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-6-Version-9.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-6-Version-9.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-6-Version-9.jpg) If the stem won’t come out when you twist it or pull on it, use a wrench to pry it out or unscrew it. This will expose the O-ring, which will be thinner, and the seat washer, which will be thicker. If the handles are leaky replace the O-ring. Take the old one to the hardware store and use it to find a replacement.[\[6\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-6) - Reassemble the faucet handle and test the water once you replace the O-ring. 4. [![Step 4 Remove the seat valve washer.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/1/17/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-7-Version-9.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-7-Version-9.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-7-Version-9.jpg) This is the upside-down brass screw. Either unscrew it by hand, or use a wrench to loosen and remove the valve washer. If your faucet is leaking, this is probably the main culprit.[\[7\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-7) 5. [![Step 5 Replace the seat washer with an exact replica.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/2/26/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-8-Version-9.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-8-Version-9.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-8-Version-9.jpg) Since these washers aren’t universal, take it with you to the hardware store to find a replacement. If you can’t find a replacement, contact your faucet’s manufacturer to order one directly from them. Coat the replacement in [plumber’s grease](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=plumber%27s+grease&crid=18C5MUZYYSUDI&sprefix=plumber%27s+greas%2Caps%2C112&ref=nb_sb_noss_2&tag=wikihow4570-20) before installing it back in the valve.[\[8\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-8) - You can use petroleum jelly instead of plumber’s grease if you prefer. 6. [![Step 6 Reassemble each handle and check your work.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/a/a1/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-9-Version-9.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-9-Version-9.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-9-Version-9.jpg) Put everything back together the same way you took them apart. Tighten any screws or fasteners you removed. Then, turn the water on and let it run for a few minutes to wash out any debris. Any minor leaks should now be fixed. - If you do find any leaks, confirm that you installed the O-ring and seat washer correctly. If there’s still a leak, you likely have to replace the entire faucet. 1. [![Step 1 Buy a replacement...](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/d/d3/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-10-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-10-Version-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-10-Version-4.jpg) **Buy a [**replacement kit**](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=ball+faucet+repair+kit&sprefix=ball+fauce%2Caps%2C113&ref=nb_sb_ss_ts-doa-p_2_10&tag=wikihow4570-20) for your ball faucet.** Ball faucets have several parts that require replacement. They need special tools, too. You won't need to replace the entire faucet, just the faucet cam assembly. All of the stuff you'll need, including the tools, should be included in this type of kit that runs about \$20.[\[9\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-9) - Look for a kit that specifically mentions your specific faucet brand and model as compatible. 2. [![Step 2 Unscrew the handle and remove it.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/b/b6/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-11-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-11-Version-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-11-Version-4.jpg) Lift off the handle and place it aside. You may need to unscrew a small faster that holds the lever in place on top of the ball cap. Pop off the spout and handle.[\[10\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-10) 3. [![Step 3 Use pliers to remove the cap and collar.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/5/5a/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-12-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-12-Version-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-12-Version-4.jpg) Loosen the faucet cam, which is the threaded bit on top of the entire valve assembly. There is a specific tool in your replacement kit for this purpose, so follow the instructions that came with your kit. Remove the faucet cam, washer, and ball.[\[11\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-11) - This will look like a "ball and socket" joint in your body—a movable (usually white) rubber ball plugs the socket, which stops the water and releases it. 4. [![Step 4 Remove the inlet seals and springs.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/1/14/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-13-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-13-Version-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-13-Version-4.jpg) Reach inside of the faucet body using needle-nose pliers and pull out the small seals and springs. Note how these components are attached to the valve, which should help when it’s time to reassemble your faucet.[\[12\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-12) 5. [![Step 5 Replace the O-rings by sliding them on by hand.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/d/dd/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-14-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-14-Version-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-14-Version-4.jpg) Cut off the old O-ring and coat the new one in plumber’s grease. Slide it onto the assembly where the old O-ring was located.[\[13\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-13) - In the vast majority of cases, the O-ring is the culprit for the leak. - You can use petroleum jelly instead of plumber’s grease if you prefer. 6. [![Step 6 Install new springs, valve seats, and cam washers.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/2/25/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-15-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-15-Version-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-15-Version-4.jpg) These are all be included in your kit, and should be essentially the reverse of the process you completed. Wherever you took a spring or washer off, install a replacement.[\[14\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-14) - Even though the O-ring is likely to blame, replacing the springs and whatnot will keep you from needing to replace them in the near future. 7. [![Step 7 Reassemble the handle and test your work.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/3/3e/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-16-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-16-Version-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-16-Version-4.jpg) The leak should now be repaired, but double-check just to be sure. Turn the water on and let it run for a few minutes to wash out any debris. Then, check under the sink and around the faucet to confirm you don’t have water leaking anywhere.[\[15\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-15) 1. [![Step 1 Remove the handle to access the valve underneath.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/b/b8/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-17-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-17-Version-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-17-Version-4.jpg) Pry off the decorative cap if you have one. Then, look for a small opening on each handle where the screw goes. Use a small screwdriver to unscrew the fastener and then remove the handles.[\[16\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-16) - If you don’t see any screw slots, try gently prying the handle up by hand or twisting it “backwards” until it comes off. 2. [![Step 2 Remove the retaining clip if necessary.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/0/02/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-18-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-18-Version-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-18-Version-4.jpg) In some niche models, a retaining clip holds the cartridge in place. This is a circular, threaded piece that’s usually made of plastic. Use pliers to pry it off of the cartridge.[\[17\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-17) 3. [![Step 3 Pull the cartridge out or stand it up straight.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/8/8b/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-19-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-19-Version-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-19-Version-4.jpg) The cartridge may come right out. If it doesn’t, pull it up until you hear a click. This is the position the cartridge sits in when the water is on full blast.[\[18\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-18) 4. [![Step 4 Remove the faucet spout if the cartridge doesn’t come out.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/6/66/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-20-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-20-Version-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-20-Version-4.jpg) Slide the spout up off of the cartridge and set it aside. Locate the O-rings at the base of the cartridge. 5. [![Step 5 Replace the O-rings or swap out the cartridge entirely.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/6/62/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-21-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-21-Version-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-21-Version-4.jpg) If your cartridge looks undamaged and it’s inside the faucet opening, simply clean it off with a damp cloth and replace the O-ring. However, if the cartridge looks damaged or it simply looks unreasonably old, purchase a replacement and stick it inside the opening.[\[19\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-19) - The cartridge will click in place when you insert it. There’s only one way for the cartridge to go in, so it’s impossible to get this one wrong. - You must purchase a replacement cartridge designed specifically for your faucet brand and model. 6. [![Step 6 Reassemble the handle and confirm everything works.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/4/4d/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-22-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-22-Version-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-22-Version-4.jpg) The leak should now be repaired. Put the handle back over the cartridge, install the retaining clip if there was one, and turn the water back on to confirm everything is smooth.[\[20\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-20) 1. [![Step 1 Take out the handle and remove the escutcheon cap.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/d/dd/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-23-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-23-Version-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-23-Version-4.jpg) Unscrew the handle by turning it counterclockwise until it comes loose or removing the fastener holding the handle in place. Locate the escutcheon, which sits directly beneath the handle and is usually made of metal. Lift the escutcheon off to reveal the cylinders underneath.[\[21\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-21) 2. [![Step 2 Unscrew and remove the disk cylinder.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/0/09/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-24-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-24-Version-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-24-Version-4.jpg) Every ceramic-disk faucet is going to be different, but you typically use a screwdriver to loosen the retainer nut or mounting screw that holds the disk cylinder in place. Then, lift the cylinder out of the opening in your faucet.[\[22\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-22) - Depending on the design of your faucet, you may have multiple disk cylinders. Take all of them out if you do, but note the way they’re arranged on top of one another. 3. [![Step 3 Pry out the seals and clean the cylinders.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/d/dd/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-25-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-25-Version-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-25-Version-4.jpg) White vinegar would work well for this, especially if you have hard water. Soak the disk(s) for 2-3 hours to work out the build-up and then assess whether or not they're reusable.[\[23\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-23) - Use your gut with the disks. If they look like trash, they probably need to be replaced. 4. [![Step 4 Replace the seals or cylinder disk if they look damaged.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/8/8b/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-26-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-26-Version-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-26-Version-4.jpg) If the seals look pitted, frayed, thin, or otherwise worn but the disk is fine, simply take it to the home improvement store and buy a replacement. Otherwise, purchase a new disk deigned specifically for your faucet model.[\[24\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-24) 5. [![Step 5 Reassemble the handle and turn the water on.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/3/3e/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-27-Version-4.jpg/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-27-Version-4.jpg)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#/Image:Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet-Step-27-Version-4.jpg) Put everything back the way it originally was. Then, turn the handle for a few minutes to allow the water to flush out any debris. Check under the sink and around the faucet handles for leaks to confirm everything works.[\[25\]](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#_note-25) Search [Add New Question]() - Question Do I need to shut off the main water supply before I do this? [![David Balkan](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/d/d4/David_Balkan.png/-crop-200-200-200px-David_Balkan.png)](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/David-Balkan) [David Balkan](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/David-Balkan) Professional Plumber & CEO of Balkan Sewer & Water Main David Balkan is a Professional Plumber, CEO of Balkan Sewer and Water Main Service, and President of Balkan Sewer and Drain Cleaning. As a hands-on owner of these companies for over 40 years, David is knowledgeable about water service lines, sewers, and drain line issues. David is a Committee Chairman of the Master Plumbers Council and has sat on the Executive Committee of the Sub Surface Plumbers Association of New York for over 30 years. His knowledge and solution-oriented approach contributed to Balkan Sewer and Water Main Service being the largest and most trusted service in New York City and the recipient of the 2017 Angie’s List Super Service Award. [![David Balkan](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/d/d4/David_Balkan.png/-crop-200-200-200px-David_Balkan.png)](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/David-Balkan) Professional Plumber & CEO of Balkan Sewer & Water Main Expert Answer No, every sink has its own shutoff valve that you can use. It should be under the sink. You just need to turn the water supply to the sink off. - Question My compression faucet handles are solid and there are no screws anywhere. What should I do? ![wikiHow Staff Editor](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/7/7c/WHInitials.png/-crop-100-100-100px-WHInitials.png) This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness. ![wikiHow Staff Editor](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/7/7c/WHInitials.png/-crop-100-100-100px-WHInitials.png) wikiHow Staff Editor Staff Answer See the seam where the handle meets the faucet fixture? Slide a flathead screwdriver in that seam and pry the handles up. - Question My leak is located at the shut-off valve for cold water underneath the sink. What sort of parts do I need to buy? ![wikiHow Staff Editor](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/7/7c/WHInitials.png/-crop-100-100-100px-WHInitials.png) This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness. ![wikiHow Staff Editor](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/7/7c/WHInitials.png/-crop-100-100-100px-WHInitials.png) wikiHow Staff Editor Staff Answer Before you buy anything, grab a wrench and tighten the nut right behind the valve. The plumber's tape on that nut's threading can degrade over time which can cause a leak. Luckily, turning that nut a few times should fix it. If the leak is coming from under the sink, try tightening the nut under the sink handle. If none of this works, just replace the supply line entirely. [See more answers](https://www.wikihow.com/Questions/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#offset=3) Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. [Submit]() Advertisement Thanks for submitting a tip for review\! [![](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/2/2f/WikiHow-Expert-Interview-Transcript-Dave-Jones_sample.png/340px-WikiHow-Expert-Interview-Transcript-Dave-Jones_sample.png)](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#wh-dialog-sample_6aaf285287adc3bc87afbc98aa4bebe4) Thanks for reading our article! If you’d like to learn more about faucet repair, check out our in-depth [interview](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#wh-dialog-sample_6aaf285287adc3bc87afbc98aa4bebe4) with [Dave Jones](https://www.wikihow.com/Author/Dave-Jones). ## References About This Article [Article SummaryX](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet#summary_wrapper) To fix a leaky faucet, first turn off the water to your faucet by twisting the valve under the sink. If there’s no valve, turn off the water supply for your whole house. Turn the faucet on to empty any water in the pipes, and plug the drain so nothing falls down it while you’re working. If there’s a set screw behind the faucet handle, use an Allen wrench to remove it, then take the handle off. Alternatively, if there’s a top screw cover on the handle, pry it off with a flathead screwdriver, then loosen the screw beneath it and remove the handle. With the handle off, use a wrench to loosen and remove the nut in the handle assembly. Pull the handle cartridge up and out of the sink. Use a cloth to wipe down all of the loose parts and the area around the handle. If the O-ring looks old or damaged, replace it. Get a matching replacement for the old cartridge, then insert the new cartridge back into the sink. Now tighten the nut back into place with the wrench and reattach the handle. Finally, turn the water back on and check that your faucet is no longer leaking. If you need to learn how to fix a compression or cartridge faucet, keep reading\! Did this summary help you? Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 2,447,093 times. Reader Success Stories - ![Jen B.](https://www.wikihow.com/images/thumb/b/b0/CommunityAvatar2.png/-crop-72-72-72px-CommunityAvatar2.png) Jen B. Oct 18, 2017 "I didn't think a leaky faucet was something I could fix myself, but the steps for a compression faucet (which..." [more](https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-a-Leaky-Faucet) ## Did this article help you?

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