The DIY Guide to Fixing Leaky Faucets Without Calling a Plumber Nov 11, 2025

Leaky faucets are a common household nuisance that can waste water and increase your utility bills. However, you don’t always need to call a plumber to fix this issue. With some basic tools and a bit of patience, you can tackle the problem yourself. Baker & Sons Plumbing, your trusted local plumbing service, offers this handy guide to help you repair leaky faucets, saving you time and money.

Understanding why your faucet is leaking is the first step towards fixing it. Leaks often occur due to worn-out washers, O-rings, or valve seats. Different faucets, such as compression, ball, cartridge, and ceramic disc faucets, have various components, each requiring a unique approach to repair. Identifying the type of faucet you have will help you determine the specific parts that may need attention.

Before you start any repairs, ensure you have the necessary tools on hand. These typically include an adjustable wrench, screwdriver, plumber’s grease, and replacement parts. It's also crucial to turn off the water supply to avoid flooding your workspace. You can do this by locating the shut-off valves under your sink or turning off your home’s main water supply.

For a compression faucet, start by removing the decorative caps, if any, and unscrewing the handles. This will expose the valve that needs attention. Remove the nut holding the valve system in place using an adjustable wrench. Carefully take out the valve and the associated washer. Usually, the washer is the culprit in causing leaks. Replace the old washer with a new one of the same size and apply plumber’s grease to ensure a tight seal upon reassembly.

Cartridge faucets are slightly different but still manageable. After removing the handle, you'll likely find a retaining clip or nut holding the cartridge in place. Use needle-nose pliers to remove the clip, and then take out the cartridge. If it's damaged or worn, replace it with a new one before reassembling everything back in place. This process usually stops any water leakage issues.

Ball faucets, often integrated with single-lever controls found in kitchens, might require a bit more comprehensive attention due to their more complex internal mechanisms. Fortunately, many local hardware stores sell ball faucet repair kits, which include all necessary parts. Simply follow the kit instructions carefully, replacing seals and springs where needed. Ensuring you have a step-by-step guide next to you can also make this job easier.

Lastly, ceramic disc faucets are among the most durable but can still encounter issues. Remove the handle and the decorative cap to access the seals. Check for sediment buildup, which is a common cause of leaks in these types of faucets. Clean any debris and replace worn discs if you notice signs of wear.

After repairing any type of faucet, reassemble the components in reverse order of disassembly. Once back together, slowly turn your water supply back on and test the faucet to ensure the leak is fixed. You should no longer hear the annoying drip-drip associated with a leak.

By following this DIY guide from Baker & Sons Plumbing, homeowners can address leaky faucets without immediately resorting to professional help. Not only does this empower you to tackle minor plumbing issues on your own, but it also helps conserve water and maintain your home efficiently. However, if you ever feel uncertain about your repairs or encounter complexities beyond your expertise, remember that Baker & Sons Plumbing is only a call away, ready to assist with their professional services.