How to Repair a Leaking Kitchen Faucet

Drips represent more than just wasted water; they are a constant, rhythmic annoyance that can degrade your sink finish and inflate your utility bills. Whether it is a slow seep from the base or a persistent drip from the spout, the culprit is almost always a worn-out internal seal or a degraded cartridge that has finally lost its ability to hold back the line pressure. Successfully repairing a faucet is less about mechanical genius and more about methodical disassembly. When you approach the task with a clean workspace, clear labeling of parts, and the right replacement components, you transform a potentially messy plumbing headache into a straightforward afternoon maintenance task. Done well, your handle will turn smoothly, the water will flow only when intended, and the drip will be history.

1. Stop the Water Flow. Locate the hot and cold shut-off valves under the sink and turn them clockwise until they stop. Open the faucet handle to drain the remaining pressure in the lines.
2. Expose the Core. Pry off the decorative cap on the handle to reveal the mounting screw. Use an Allen wrench or screwdriver to loosen the set screw and pull the handle assembly off the stem.
3. Extract the Culprit. Unscrew the decorative bonnet nut, typically using an adjustable wrench. Once the nut is free, pull the cartridge or stem straight up and out of the faucet body.
4. Find Hidden Damage. Check the interior of the faucet body for mineral deposits or debris that could be preventing a tight seal. Wipe away any grime using a soft cloth and diluted vinegar.
5. Seat New Seals. Apply a light coat of silicone-based plumber's grease to the new O-rings or cartridge seals. Slide the new cartridge into the body, ensuring it seats correctly in the alignment notches.
6. Restore Full Flow. Thread the bonnet nut back on by hand to avoid cross-threading, then tighten it firmly with a wrench. Reattach the handle and turn the water supply valves back on slowly.