How to Fix a Dripping Kitchen Faucet
Updated February 25, 2026
Stop a dripping kitchen faucet by replacing the cartridge, O-rings, or valve seat -- covers single-handle, two-handle, and ball-type faucets.
Overview
A dripping kitchen faucet wastes 3,000-5,000 gallons per year at one drip per second. That is $20-$50 on your water bill and the constant sound that drives you insane at 2 AM. The cause is almost always a worn internal component: a cartridge, O-ring, ball assembly, or valve seat. The fix depends on your faucet type. Single-handle with a cartridge? Replace the cartridge. Ball-type (Delta and some Moen)? Replace the ball, springs, and seats. Two-handle? Replace the cartridge or washer on the dripping side. Each fix costs $5-$25 in parts and takes 20-45 minutes.
What You'll Need
Safety First
- Turn off both hot and cold supply valves under the sink before disassembling. Even a slow drip can become a full spray when internals are removed.
- Cover the drain with a rag or stopper before starting. Small screws, springs, and O-rings fall into open drains constantly during faucet repairs.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Identify Your Faucet Type
Single-handle that lifts and swivels: either a cartridge (Moen, Kohler, Pfister) or a ball valve (Delta). Remove the handle to identify which. Cartridge: you see a cylindrical plastic or brass cartridge. Ball: you see a metal ball with a stem. Two-handle: each handle has its own cartridge or compression washer. Knowing the type determines which parts you need.
Tip: The brand name is usually on the faucet body or the handle cap. If you cannot find it, take a photo of the faucet and the internals to the hardware store. They can identify the brand and pull the right parts. - Remove the Handle
Most handles have a decorative cap (pry off with a flathead screwdriver) covering a Phillips or Allen screw. Remove the screw and pull the handle off. Some handles have a set screw on the side or back -- look for a small hole that fits a 3/32 or 7/64 Allen wrench. If the handle is stuck from mineral buildup, wiggle while pulling straight up. A handle puller ($8-$15) helps with stubborn ones without damaging the faucet.
Tip: Put a towel in the sink and lay out parts in order as you remove them. When it is time to reassemble, you work backward through the lineup. This prevents the 'where does this piece go?' moment. - Replace the Cartridge (Cartridge-Type Faucets)
Remove the retaining clip or nut that holds the cartridge in the faucet body. Pull the cartridge straight out -- cartridge pliers ($8-$12) grip the top and provide leverage. If it is stuck, Moen sells a cartridge puller ($10) specifically for seized Moen cartridges (the 1225 is notorious for sticking). Take the old cartridge to the hardware store and match it. Insert the new cartridge in the same orientation. Replace the retaining clip/nut. Reassemble the handle.
Tip: Moen 1225 and 1222 cartridges are the two most common kitchen faucet cartridges in America. The 1225 (brass stem) fits most Moen single-handle kitchen and bath faucets. Moen provides free cartridge replacements under their lifetime warranty -- call 1-800-BUY-MOEN before buying one at the store. - Replace the Ball Assembly (Ball-Type Faucets)
Delta ball-type faucets use a metal ball that sits on rubber seats and springs. Remove the cap, cam, cam washer, and ball. At the bottom, pull out the small rubber seats and springs (two sets, one for hot and one for cold). Replace all of them -- a Delta ball repair kit ($10-$15, RP3614) includes everything. Press the new seats and springs into the holes. Set the ball on top with the alignment tab matching the slot. Reassemble the cam, cap, and handle.
Tip: Always replace the seats, springs, AND the ball together. A new ball on old seats still drips. The kit costs $10-$15 and eliminates any doubt. - Replace the Washer (Compression Two-Handle Faucets)
Older two-handle faucets use compression valves with rubber washers at the bottom of each stem. Remove the handle and the packing nut. Unscrew the stem assembly. At the bottom, a rubber washer is held by a brass screw. Remove the screw, pry off the old washer, press on the new one (same size), and replace the screw. While the stem is out, inspect the valve seat in the faucet body. If it is pitted or rough, the new washer will not seal. Resurface it with a seat grinder ($10) or replace it.
Tip: Bring the old stem and washer to the hardware store. Faucet washers come in dozens of sizes. The only way to get the right one is to match it physically. A $2-$3 assorted washer pack covers most sizes. - Reassemble and Test
Put everything back in reverse order. Hand-tighten fittings first, then snug with a wrench. Turn on the supply valves slowly. Check for leaks at every connection: under the handle, at the base, and at the spout. Open the faucet -- the drip should be gone. If it still drips, the valve seat may be damaged (needs resurfacing or replacement) or you installed the cartridge slightly misaligned. Remove and recheck.
Tip: After reassembly, run the faucet for 30 seconds to flush any debris from the new parts. Small particles from installation can cause intermittent dripping for the first day.
Pro Tips
- Moen, Delta, Kohler, and Pfister all offer lifetime warranties on their faucet cartridges. Call the manufacturer before buying a replacement part -- they may ship you one free.
- A faucet dripping at one drip per second wastes 3,000+ gallons per year. At $5 per 1,000 gallons (combined water and sewer), that is $15-$30/year. A $10 cartridge saves that in months.
- If the faucet drips from the spout: internal valve problem (cartridge, ball, or washer). If it drips from the base when the handle is turned on: O-ring around the faucet body. Different causes, different fixes.
- Ceramic disc cartridges (found in Kohler, Pfister, and higher-end faucets) last longer than ball valves or rubber washers. If you are replacing the faucet entirely, choose one with ceramic disc internals.
- Hard water accelerates cartridge and valve seat wear. A water softener extends the life of all faucet internals.
When to Call a Pro
Call a plumber if the supply valves under the sink will not shut off (valve replacement needed first), if the faucet body is corroded and the cartridge housing is damaged, or if you have tried two cartridge replacements and it still drips (the valve seat inside the body may need professional resurfacing or the faucet body itself is worn out -- replacement time).
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I call a plumber to fix a dripping kitchen faucet?
Call a plumber if the supply valves under the sink will not shut off (valve replacement needed first), if the faucet body is corroded and the cartridge housing is damaged, or if you have tried two cartridge replacements and it still drips (the valve seat inside the body may need professional resurfacing or the faucet body itself is worn out -- replacement time).
What are some expert tips to fix a dripping kitchen faucet?
Moen, Delta, Kohler, and Pfister all offer lifetime warranties on their faucet cartridges. Call the manufacturer before buying a replacement part -- they may ship you one free. A faucet dripping at one drip per second wastes 3,000+ gallons per year. At $5 per 1,000 gallons (combined water and sewer), that is $15-$30/year. A $10 cartridge saves that in months. If the faucet drips from the spout: internal valve problem (cartridge, ball, or washer). If it drips from the base when the handle is turned on: O-ring around the faucet body. Different causes, different fixes. Ceramic disc cartridges (found in Kohler, Pfister, and higher-end faucets) last longer than ball valves or rubber washers. If you are replacing the faucet entirely, choose one with ceramic disc internals. Hard water accelerates cartridge and valve seat wear. A water softener extends the life of all faucet internals.
What tools do I need to fix a dripping kitchen faucet?
You will need: Allen wrench set (3/32 and 7/64 are most common for faucet handles), Adjustable wrench or channel-lock pliers, Replacement cartridge, ball kit, or washers (match to your faucet brand and model), Flathead screwdriver (for prying off decorative caps), Towel or rag (to cover the drain and protect the sink).
When should I call a professional instead of doing this myself?
Call a plumber if the supply valves under the sink will not shut off (valve replacement needed first), if the faucet body is corroded and the cartridge housing is damaged, or if you have tried two cartridge replacements and it still drips (the valve seat inside the body may need professional resurfacing or the faucet body itself is worn out -- replacement time).
How difficult is this project?
This project is rated easy. Most homeowners with basic tools can complete it.
How long does this take?
Plan for approximately 20 - 45 minutes. First-timers may need extra time.
How much will this cost?
The estimated cost is $5 - $25. Costs vary by location and materials chosen.