Stop a dripping faucet
A drip that keeps going after the handle is off means a seal inside the faucet has worn out. On most single-handle faucets that's the cartridge; on older two-handle models it's usually a rubber washer. Turning the handle tighter won't stop it, but replacing that one part will.
What's inside the faucet
Before you buy anything, find out which kind you have. With the handle off, you'll see either a cartridge, a plastic or brass cylinder that lifts straight out, or a stem with a rubber washer on the end. The replacement has to match, so take the old part to the store.
The rest is taking things apart in order and laying the pieces out so you know how they go back.
Where the drip comes from
The seals inside wear down, and water gets through even with the handle all the way off.
On older two-handle faucets, the rubber washer hardens and cracks, so it can't seal against the metal seat.
In hard-water areas, scale can keep parts from closing completely.
If water leaks around the handle or the base of the spout instead of out the tip, the O-rings are the likely problem.
| Faucet | What's inside | Usual fix |
|---|---|---|
| Single handle that lifts and turns | Cartridge or ball | Replace the cartridge. Bring the old one to the store. |
| Two handles that turn several times | Compression stem with a rubber washer | Replace the washer and seat. |
| Two handles that turn a quarter turn | Ceramic disc cartridge | Replace the cartridge for that side. |
| Leaks around the handle or spout, not the tip | O-rings | Replace the O-rings and grease them. |
Swap the worn part
- Shut the water off under the sinkTurn both valves clockwise, then open the faucet to let the lines drain. Put a towel in the sink drain so small parts can't fall in.
- Take off the handlePry off the decorative cap, then loosen the set screw underneath. It usually takes a 2.5 mm or 3/32 inch Allen key. Lift the handle straight up.
- Take a photo, then pull the cartridgePhotograph how everything sits, remove the retaining nut or clip, and pull the cartridge straight up. Note which way the tabs face.
- Take it to the storeBring the old cartridge with you. Brand and model matter, and matching it in person is much easier than guessing online.
- Grease it and put it backPut a thin coat of plumber's grease on the new O-rings, slide the cartridge in facing the same way, reassemble, and turn the water back on slowly.
If it drips after the repair
If it drips after a new cartridge, make sure the cartridge is pushed all the way down and facing the right way. One sitting slightly high won't seal.
On a kitchen faucet with a pull-down sprayer, a drip can come from the sprayer hose connection. Look under the sink while the water runs.
What a pro typically charges (a rough estimate; prices vary by area): A plumber usually charges $150–$350 to repair a leaky faucet. Replacing the whole faucet with installation runs about $250–$600.
Something else going on?
Dripping faucet questions
Why does it drip even when the handle is off tight?
The seals in the cartridge are worn and can't close fully. Turning the handle harder won't help, and it can crack the cartridge.
Should I replace the cartridge or the whole faucet?
If the faucet is in good shape, a $15 to $40 cartridge is the better deal. If it's corroded or leaking at the base, replace the faucet.
Is it a washer or a cartridge?
Older two-handle faucets that turn several times usually have washers. Single-handle faucets usually have a cartridge. Taking the handle off will tell you.
Which side is dripping, hot or cold?
Turn off one shutoff valve under the sink at a time. When the drip stops, you've found the side to fix.
Can I keep using a dripping faucet?
Yes. A drip wastes water but doesn't damage anything. If it's loud at night, a folded washcloth under the spout helps until you fix it.
Still stuck? Ask us
Tell us what you're seeing and what you've tried. We read every question, and the ones that will help other people get answered on this page.