How to Fix a Leaky Faucet

April 15, 2025

Whether they’re big or small, plumbing issues are inconvenient. But Hanson’s is here to help take care of them before they become bigger problems. A leaky faucet is one of the issues homeowners may frequently deal with, and oftentimes it’s a simple fix. Keep reading to learn about common causes and some of the problems you might encounter because of a faucet leak as well as how to fix a leaky faucet.

Common Causes of Faucet Leaks

For many homeowners, a leaky faucet is a typical problem. Chances are, one of the faucets in your home will drip or leak at some point. While it’s hopefully a minor disturbance, a faucet leak is certainly an annoyance that can be caused by any number of issues.

Broken seals. Seals create barriers inside a faucet to prevent water from flowing between certain parts. They essentially seal off portions of the faucet’s interior structure. Different faucet designs use different types of seals, all of which are often made from rubber and can wear down, become loose, or stretch out after years of use, allowing water to seep beyond it and cause a drip or leak.

• O-rings are used around faucet handles but can weaken over time.
• Washers or gaskets are small, round, rubber or plastic disks that create a tight seal when the faucet is turned off. Over time, washers can also wear out.

Valve seat. The valve seat is usually located at the base of the handle and works with the washer to control the flow of water from the faucet. Valve seats can become corroded or damaged, or they can wear out over time, preventing a tight seal and causing water to drip or leak from the faucet.

Loose parts. As with most mechanical devices, faucets contain parts that can become loose, stuck, or damaged, which can lead to a leak or drip.

Problems Caused by Faucet Leaks

A faucet with a slow drip may not be an immediate concern. But if not properly addressed and fixed, a minor leak can lead to major issues and big expenses, including:

• Wasted water: According to the EPA, a faucet that leaks one drip per second can waste more than 3,000 gallons of water each year.
• Higher utility bills: With wasted water comes higher water bills, and you’re paying more for water you’re not even using.
• Mold and mildew: Added moisture increases the potential for mold and mildew growth, which can contaminate your home and cause health issues for you and your family.
• Water damage: What may seem like a leaky faucet could be a bigger plumbing issue that may result in water damage under the faucet, in the walls, and other places water pipes run throughout your home.

So, while a leaky faucet may just be inconvenient, it’s best to fix it as soon as possible to save yourself time, energy, and money in the long run.

Fixing a Leaky Faucet

The steps for fixing a leaky faucet are fairly straightforward but may vary slightly, depending on the type of faucet or its placement.

First, turn off the water supply to the faucet you’re repairing or replacing. This can be done by turning the shut-off valves underneath the sink. Turn on the faucet to empty the remaining water in the line. Place a rag over the drain to ensure tools or parts don’t get lost.

Next, you’ll want to remove the handle(s) by loosening the screw under the handle cover or behind the handle. Pull the handle(s) from the faucet.

Then, loosen the faucet stem (which controls the flow of hot and cold water) with a wrench and pull it straight up to remove.

Clean the seals or gaskets, or replace them if they’re worn. Do the same for the valve seat and spring, depending on the design of your faucet. Applying plumber’s grease to seals and moving parts can provide smoother operation and help reduce wear.

Once you have all the pieces back in place, reassemble your faucet and turn on the water supply.

Call the Faucet Repair Experts

For more complex fixes or if you’re unsure of what to do for a faucet leak, the professionals at Hanson’s are always here to help. Our plumbing professionals can repair or replace your leaky faucet in no time, getting your home back on track and providing you and your family with peace of mind. Contact us today with questions or to schedule service.