A dripping kitchen faucet is not only an annoyance but also a source of water waste that can increase utility bills. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, a faucet leaking one drop per second can waste more than 3,000 gallons of water per year. For households and businesses, timely repair is essential. Below is a step-by-step professional guide on how to fix a dripping kitchen faucet.
kitchen faucets come in different designs, and the repair process depends on the internal mechanism:
Compression faucets: Use rubber washers that wear out over time.
Ball faucets: Have multiple parts and rely on O-rings and springs.
Cartridge faucets: Use a movable cartridge to control water flow.
Ceramic disc faucets: Operate with durable ceramic discs but can still develop seal issues.
Correct identification ensures you prepare the right replacement parts before starting.
Before disassembly, shut off the water supply valves located under the sink. Turn the faucet on to release any remaining pressure and confirm the water flow has stopped. This prevents leaks and accidental flooding during the repair.
Use an Allen wrench or screwdriver to remove the handle screw and lift off the handle.
Expose the internal cartridge, washer, or valve stem depending on the faucet type.
Keep the removed parts in order to make reassembly easier.
Tip: Place a towel or plug in the sink drain to avoid losing small components.
Most faucet drips are caused by worn or damaged sealing components:
Rubber washers or O-rings may become brittle.
Cartridges can develop cracks or lose elasticity.
Valve seats may show mineral buildup or corrosion.
Replace faulty parts with exact matches from a hardware store or faucet supplier. Using genuine, high-quality replacements ensures longer service life.
Mineral deposits from hard water can accelerate wear. Clean all metal surfaces, threads, and valve seats with white vinegar or a commercial descaling solution. This step helps restore smooth operation and prevents future drips.
Reinstall the cartridge, washer, or disc in the reverse order of removal.
Tighten screws securely but avoid over-tightening, which can cause damage.
Turn on the water supply and test the faucet.
If dripping persists, recheck the installation to ensure parts are seated properly.
Install aerators with filters to reduce debris entering the faucet.
Regularly clean faucet aerators to maintain consistent flow.
Schedule maintenance checks if the faucet is used in high-demand commercial kitchens.
Consider upgrading to ceramic disc faucets, which offer longer durability.
Fixing a dripping kitchen faucet is a straightforward process if approached methodically. Identifying the faucet type, replacing worn components, and maintaining cleanliness will restore proper function and prevent water waste.
As a professional kitchen faucet manufacturer and supplier, we provide durable designs and reliable spare parts that make maintenance easier for both residential and commercial users. For procurement inquiries or customized solutions, feel free to contact our team.
Mobile Phone:
Contact Now