How to Fix a Dripping Faucet (Washer vs. Cartridge)

That rhythmic drip, drip, drip can drive you crazy, but the fix is often simpler than you think. The method depends on whether you have an older compression faucet or a modern cartridge faucet.

If you have separate hot and cold handles, you likely have a compression faucet. The leak is usually caused by a worn-out rubber washer at the base of the valve stem.

The Fix: Turn off the water, unscrew the handle, remove the valve stem, and replace the small rubber washer at the bottom.

Modern single-handle faucets use a plastic or brass cartridge. When they leak, it means the O-rings or the cartridge itself has failed.

The Fix: Turn off the water, remove the handle, and pull out the entire cartridge. Take it to the hardware store to find an exact match, then simply slide the new one in.