How to Repair a Leaky Faucet

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BEFORE YOU START

• Shut off the water under the sink.
• Close the sink drain; cover it with a rag to catch dropped parts.
• Tape the jaws of your wrench with a layer of duct tape to avoid scratching the fixture.
• Establish a place to lay out parts in order of removal.
• Use some distilled white vinegar and a soft scouring pad for removing mineral deposits on faucet parts.

FIND YOUR FAUCET

There are four kinds: compression, cartridge (sleeve), ceramic disk and ball type. Each type is illustrated here. Except for the compression faucet, there are two illustrations for each. The less detailed version will identify the kind you have. The more detailed one will help as you make repairs.

A compression faucet relies on rubber washers to seal the valve seat. Rubber washers wear out and must be replaced occasionally. The other types, often called washer-less faucets, last longer but they too can develop leaks. When these cartridge, ceramic-disk or ball-type faucets leak, you can either replace the O-ring or neoprene seal that's causing the leak or replace the entire assembly for less than $20.

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