How to Fix a Dripping Kitchen Faucet

Drips represent more than just a waste of water; the constant sound acts as a rhythmic reminder of a plumbing system that is slowly failing. When a kitchen faucet loses its seal, the internal components have likely succumbed to mineral buildup or the simple wear of daily operation. A job well done restores the silent, effortless operation of your lever and ensures not a single drop escapes between uses. Taking on this repair requires a bit of patience and a steady hand, but it is entirely manageable for a homeowner. You do not need to replace the entire fixture when the fix often lives inside a single, inexpensive cartridge. By following these steps, you will learn the internal anatomy of your faucet and save yourself the high cost of a professional service call.

  1. Cut the Water Off First. Locate the shut-off valves under the kitchen sink and turn them clockwise until tight. Open the faucet lever to drain any remaining water pressure in the lines.
  2. Expose the Cartridge. Find the small set screw on the side or back of the handle, usually hidden under a decorative plastic cap. Use a hex key to loosen the screw and pull the handle straight off the faucet body.
  3. Lift Out the Worn Part. Use an adjustable wrench to unscrew the retaining nut or bonnet that holds the cartridge in place. Once loose, pull the cartridge directly upward out of the faucet housing.
  4. Find the Failure Point. Check the rubber O-rings on the cartridge for cracks or flattening. If the faucet was leaking from the base, the O-rings are the culprit; if it was dripping from the spout, the cartridge itself is likely faulty.
  5. Scrub Away the Buildup. Wipe out the interior of the faucet body with a damp cloth to remove scale and debris. Any leftover grit will ruin the seal of your new cartridge immediately.
  6. Seat the New Cartridge. Slide the new cartridge into the body, ensuring it seats correctly in the alignment grooves. Tighten the retaining nut, replace the handle, and tighten the set screw.
  7. Verify the Seal Holds. Slowly turn the water valves back on under the sink. Turn the faucet handle to the on position to flush out trapped air, then turn it off and watch for any residual drips.