How to Fix a Dripping Single Tap Faucet

A leaking faucet can cost you lots of money in wasted water.

Single spout faucets are common in most bathrooms and kitchens in the home. Handles control the flow of water from the spout. When the components inside the faucet wear down or break, such as the seals or cartridge, the handle will no longer be able to control the water flow from the spout. The faucet will continue to drip even when the handles are fully closed. There are several different faucet styles, each requiring a different repair method.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver
• Pliers
• Wrench
• Washers
• Seals
• Allen key

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Instructions

Double-Handle Faucet

1. Turn the ball valves clockwise to turn off the water supply to the faucet underneath the sink.

2. Plug the sink drain with a rag to prevent any lost screws.

3. Pry off the cover of the handle with a screwdriver.

4. Remove the screw that holds the handle in place. Pull the handle up.

5. Turn the packing stem with a wrench to remove it from the faucet.

6. Pull up the stem with a pair of pliers. Inspect the washers and replace any washers that look worn.

7. Reassemble the handle.

Single-Handle Faucet, Cartridge Type

1. Turn off the water and clog the sink drain with a rag.

2. Remove the screw from the base of the handle with an Allen key.

3. Turn the packing nut with a wrench.

4. Insert the cartridge removal tool that comes with the new cartridge. Twist it back and forth with a wrench to loosen the cartridge. Pull the cartridge out of the faucet. Remove the retaining clip from the well inside the faucet.

5. Align the new cartridge and push it down. Reassemble the faucet.

Single-Handle Faucet, Ceramic Disc

1. Turn off the water and stuff the drain with a rag.

2. Remove the handle, using the same method as the other single-handle faucets.

3. Loosen the mounting screws on the disc with a screwdriver. Pull up the cylinder with a pair of pliers.

4. Replace the seals beneath the cylinder and reassemble the faucet.

References

• This Old House: Fixing a Leaky Faucet
• Friendly Plumber: Repairing Leaky Faucets by Faucet Type
• Mother Earth News: "How to Fix a Leaking Faucet"; Troy Griepentrog; Jan. 8, 2009