How To Fix Leaky Sink Faucet

A leaky sink faucet is a common plumbing problem that can waste water and increase your water bill. If you have a leaky sink faucet, it is important to fix it as soon as possible to avoid further damage. There are a few different ways to fix a leaky sink faucet, depending on the type of faucet and the cause of the leak.

The most common type of sink faucet is a compression faucet. Compression faucets have a washer that seals the water flow when the faucet is closed. If the washer is worn or damaged, it can cause the faucet to leak. To fix a leaky compression faucet, you will need to replace the washer.

Another type of sink faucet is a cartridge faucet. Cartridge faucets have a cartridge that seals the water flow when the faucet is closed. If the cartridge is worn or damaged, it can cause the faucet to leak. To fix a leaky cartridge faucet, you will need to replace the cartridge.

If you are not sure what type of sink faucet you have, you can check the manufacturer's website or the faucet's packaging. Once you know the type of faucet you have, you can follow the steps below to fix the leak.

Tools and materials you will need:

Adjustable wrench
Phillips screwdriver
Flathead screwdriver
Replacement washer or cartridge
Plumber's putty

Steps to fix a leaky compression faucet:

Turn off the water supply to the faucet. There should be two shut-off valves under the sink, one for the hot water and one for the cold water. Turn both valves clockwise to turn off the water.
Open the faucet to release any remaining water.
Use the adjustable wrench to loosen the packing nut. The packing nut is located at the base of the faucet handle.
Remove the handle and packing nut.
Use the Phillips screwdriver to remove the screw that holds the washer in place.
Replace the washer with a new one.
Reassemble the faucet by reversing the steps above. Be sure to tighten the packing nut snugly, but do not overtighten it.
Turn on the water supply to the faucet and check for leaks.

Steps to fix a leaky cartridge faucet:

Turn off the water supply to the faucet. There should be two shut-off valves under the sink, one for the hot water and one for the cold water. Turn both valves clockwise to turn off the water.
Open the faucet to release any remaining water.
Use the adjustable wrench to loosen the cartridge nut. The cartridge nut is located at the base of the faucet handle.
Remove the handle and cartridge nut.
Pull the cartridge straight out of the faucet body.
Replace the cartridge with a new one.
Reassemble the faucet by reversing the steps above. Be sure to tighten the cartridge nut snugly, but do not overtighten it.
Turn on the water supply to the faucet and check for leaks.

If you have tried the steps above and you are still unable to fix the leaky sink faucet, you may need to call a plumber. A plumber can diagnose the problem and repair the faucet for you.