A leaky faucet is more than just an annoying drip — it's a waste of water and money. In Denmark, where water conservation is important, fixing that leak can save up to 38 liters of water per day. The good news is that you don't need to be a professional plumber to solve this common household problem.

This guide will walk you through fixing the most common type of faucet leak, step by step, with minimal tools and experience required.

What You'll Need

Tools:

  • Adjustable wrench
  • Screwdriver (flathead and Phillips)
  • Pliers
  • Allen wrench (if needed for your faucet type)
  • Utility knife

Materials:

  • Replacement O-rings or washers
  • Plumber's tape
  • White vinegar
  • Old toothbrush
  • Clean cloth or rag

Step 1: Turn Off the Water

Before you start any plumbing repair, you need to turn off the water supply to prevent flooding and make your job easier.

  1. Look under the sink for the water shut-off valves. There should be one for hot water and one for cold.
  2. Turn both valves clockwise until they're fully closed.
  3. Turn on the faucet to release any remaining water and confirm the water is truly off.

Pro Tip:

If your sink doesn't have shut-off valves underneath, you'll need to turn off the main water supply to your home, usually located near the water meter.

Step 2: Disassemble the Faucet

Now that the water is off, you can take apart the faucet to identify the source of the leak:

  1. Cover the drain with a cloth or plug to prevent small parts from falling down the drain.
  2. Remove the decorative cap on the handle, usually by prying it off with a flathead screwdriver.
  3. Unscrew the handle screw and remove the handle.
  4. Depending on your faucet type, you may need to unscrew a packing nut or cartridge retaining clip.
  5. Carefully pull out the stem or cartridge assembly.

Pro Tip:

Take photos at each step of disassembly or lay the parts out in order. This will make reassembly much easier!

Step 3: Identify and Replace the Faulty Parts

The most common causes of leaks are worn O-rings, washers, or cartridges:

  1. Examine the removed parts for signs of wear, mineral buildup, or damage.
  2. Check the rubber washer at the bottom of the stem (compression faucets) or the O-rings around the cartridge.
  3. If the washer or O-ring appears worn, replace it with an identical new one.
  4. If the entire cartridge is damaged, you'll need to replace the whole unit (bring the old one to the hardware store to find an exact match).

Pro Tip:

While you have things apart, clean all components with white vinegar and an old toothbrush to remove mineral deposits that can cause leaks.

Step 4: Reassemble the Faucet

Now that you've identified and replaced the faulty parts, it's time to put everything back together:

  1. Install the new washer, O-ring, or cartridge.
  2. Reinsert the stem or cartridge into the faucet body.
  3. Replace the packing nut or retaining clip and tighten appropriately (don't overtighten).
  4. Reattach the handle and secure with the handle screw.
  5. Replace the decorative cap.

Pro Tip:

Apply a small amount of plumber's tape to any threaded connections to ensure a good seal.

Step 5: Test Your Repair

The moment of truth - it's time to see if your repair worked:

  1. Turn the water supply back on by rotating the shut-off valves counterclockwise.
  2. Turn on the faucet slowly and check for any leaks around the handle or spout.
  3. If you notice any leaks, turn off the water and check your work. You might need to tighten connections or replace additional parts.
  4. If no leaks appear, turn the faucet on and off several times to ensure proper operation.

Pro Tip:

Check under the sink for any leaks in the supply lines as well, as sometimes the vibration from your work can loosen these connections.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Still Leaking from the Spout

If the faucet still drips after your repair, you may have installed the wrong size washer or O-ring, or the valve seat might be damaged. Consider using a valve seat grinding tool or replacing the valve seat.

Leaking Around the Handle

This usually indicates a problem with the O-rings around the stem. Make sure you've replaced them all and that they're seated properly.

Low Water Pressure

If you notice reduced water flow after your repair, check for debris in the aerator (the screen at the end of the faucet) or ensure that the cartridge is installed in the correct orientation.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You've successfully fixed your leaky faucet without calling a plumber. Not only have you saved money on a service call, but you've also gained valuable DIY skills and will be saving water (and money on your water bill) every day.

Remember that different faucet brands and models may have slight variations in their designs, but the basic principles remain the same. If you encounter a particularly difficult faucet or if the leak persists despite your best efforts, don't hesitate to consult a professional.

Keep your new replacement parts (washers, O-rings) in a labeled container for future repairs. Faucets typically need maintenance every few years, and now you'll be prepared!