How to fix a dripping kitchen faucet, by DIY FIX on YouTube. 4 min 34 s.
- Video length
- 4 min 34 s
- Time to do it
- 30 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 8
What you need
Steps
Clear the cupboard under the sink and close the hot and cold supply valves. Open the faucet handle to release the pressure and let the line drain.
Plug the drain with a cloth or the stopper so small screws, springs and washers cannot fall in.
Pry off the decorative cap on the handle with a flathead screwdriver, then remove the screw underneath and lift the handle off.
Unscrew the retaining nut or collar with an adjustable wrench and pull the cartridge straight out of the faucet body.
Note which way the cartridge sits and take the old one to the shop so you buy the exact match for your brand and model.
Wipe the inside of the faucet body clean and smear a little silicone grease on the new cartridge O-rings.
Slide the new cartridge in the same orientation, then refit the retaining nut, handle and screw. Tighten snugly, not hard.
Turn the water back on slowly and run the faucet on hot and cold. Check for drips at the spout and around the base.
Tips and common mistakes
Buy the cartridge by brand and model number, not by looks, because sizes vary between Delta, Moen, Kohler and Pfister faucets.
Do not overtighten the retaining nut, as it can crack the cartridge housing and cause a new leak.
If the drip continues, check the O-rings and valve seats before assuming the new cartridge is faulty.
Wrap Teflon tape clockwise around threaded connections, two or three turns, so it tightens with the fitting instead of unwinding.
Questions
How do I know the cartridge is the problem and not the valve?
If water drips from the spout when the handle is closed, the cartridge or its O-rings are usually worn. A leak under the sink at the supply line points to the valve or connection instead.
Can I repair the faucet without buying a new cartridge?
Sometimes. Rinse off debris and limescale, grease the O-rings and refit the old part. If the drip returns within days, replace the cartridge.
Why does my faucet still drip after the swap?
The cartridge may be sitting slightly off its locating tabs, or an O-ring may have been pinched during fitting. Take it out, check the seating and refit it.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
