Fix a Leaky Kitchen Faucet

Most leaks come from worn washers or O-rings — a $5 fix you can do in 30 minutes. Here's the systematic approach from free to permanent.

Step 1: Identify the Leak Type

• Drips from spout: worn washer or cartridge
• Water at base: O-rings or loose connections
• Under-sink puddles: supply line or drain issue

Step 2: Free Fix (Tighten First)

1. Turn off water supply valves under sink (clockwise)
2. Tighten the packing nut at base of handle with an adjustable wrench
3. Turn water back on and test — this fixes ~20% of leaks

Step 3: Replace Worn Parts ($5-15)

1. Turn off water supply valves
2. Close sink drain (parts are tiny and will fall)
3. Remove faucet handle — usually a screw under decorative cap
4. Remove packing nut with wrench
5. Pull out stem/cartridge — take photo for hardware store matching
6. Replace washer (at tip of stem) and O-rings (around stem body)
7. Reassemble in reverse order — hand-tight, then 1/4 turn with wrench
8. Turn water on slowly and test

Step 4: Full Cartridge Replacement ($20-40)

If washers don't fix it, the cartridge itself is worn. Match your faucet brand (Moen, Delta, Kohler) — each uses proprietary cartridges. Bring old cartridge to hardware store for exact match.

Step 5: Replace Entire Faucet ($80-200)

If faucet is 10+ years old or corroded, replacement beats endless repairs. Single-handle faucets with ceramic disc valves (Moen, Delta) last longest.

Pro tip: Take a photo of your faucet brand name (usually on base or handle) before shopping. Most leaks are cartridge-specific, and mixing brands wastes time. If you see mineral buildup on parts, soak in white vinegar for 30 minutes before reinstalling — extends life dramatically.