Tired of the Drip, Drip, Drip? How to Fix Your Leaky Kitchen Faucet

A dripping kitchen faucet is more than just annoying; it wastes water, hikes up your water bill, and can even disturb your sleep. The good news is that fixing a dripping faucet is relatively simple and something many homeowners can tackle with a few basic tools. If you’re ready to say goodbye to that incessant drip, keep reading!

Understanding the Problem: What Causes a Faucet to Drip?

Before we dive into the fix, let’s understand what causes that dripping in the first place:

• Worn-out washer: This is the most common culprit. The washer is a rubber seal inside your faucet that prevents water from leaking when the faucet is off. Over time, washers become brittle and cracked.
• Damaged O-rings: O-rings are small rubber rings that seal various parts of the faucet handle mechanism. When they wear out, leaks can occur.
• Corroded valve seat: The valve seat is where the washer connects to close the water flow. Mineral deposits and corrosion can damage the surface, preventing a tight seal.
• Loose parts: Occasionally, nuts or screws inside the faucet can loosen over time, leading to leaks.

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Identify Your Faucet Type

Not all kitchen faucets are the same. The repair process will slightly differ depending on your faucet type:

• Compression faucets: These have two separate handles for hot and cold water. You’ll easily identify them by their classic design.
• Ball faucets: These feature a single handle sitting atop a ball-shaped mechanism.
• Cartridge faucets: Also single-handled, these use a cartridge within the faucet body to control water flow.
• Ceramic disc faucets: These are the most durable type with two ceramic discs controlling the water flow.

Getting Started: Tools and Preparations

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Adjustable wrench
• Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
• Plumber’s tape
• Penetrating oil (for stubborn components)
• Replacement parts (washers, O-rings, cartridge – have these on hand)
• Small container (to hold tiny dismantled parts)
• Cloth or towel

Preparation is key:

1. Shut off the water supply: Locate the shutoff valves under your kitchen sink (usually two separate valves for hot and cold). Turn them clockwise.
2. Turn on the faucet: Release any remaining water pressure in the line.
3. Cover the drain: Prevent losing small parts down the drain.

Step-by-Step Guide for Fixing Common Faucet Types

Compression Faucet

1. Remove the handle: Pry off the decorative cap (if any), and remove the screw holding the handle. Gently remove the handle.
2. Remove the packing nut: Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the packing nut.
3. Remove the stem: Lift the stem assembly out.
4. Replace the washer: Locate the washer at the bottom of the stem. Remove the old washer and install a new one, securing it with the screw.
5. Reassemble the faucet: Replace the stem, apply a small amount of plumber’s grease to the threads, tighten the packing nut, and reinstall the handle.

Ball, Cartridge, and Ceramic Disc Faucets The process is similar for these faucet types, involving removing the handle assembly and replacing the inner components.

1. Remove the handle: Follow the same steps as for a compression faucet to remove the handle.
2. Access the cartridge or discs: Depending on the faucet type, you may need to remove a retaining nut or a clip to access the cartridge (for cartridges) or the ceramic discs (for ceramic disc faucets).
3. Replace the component: Carefully remove the old cartridge or discs and install the replacement.
4. Reassemble the faucet: Reattach the retaining nut or clip, reinstall the handle, and tighten it in place.

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Additional Tips

• Check the valve seat: If you replaced the washer and it’s still leaking, inspect the valve seat for corrosion. Clean it with vinegar or replace it if severely damaged.
• Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions: Specific models may have slight variations.
• If unsure, call a plumber: Some repairs might be more complex, and getting a plumber can save time and frustration.

Farewell, Dripping Faucet!

Turn the water supply back on and test your repaired faucet. With a little bit of effort, you will have fixed the issue, improved your water efficiency, and silenced that bothersome drip.

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