How to Fix a Leaky Kitchen Faucet？

A leaking kitchen faucet is more than just an annoying drip; it’s a source of water waste, higher utility bills, and potential water damage. Whether you have standard  kitchen taps， a modern pull down faucet, or classic kitchen sink faucets, most leaks share common causes and can often be repaired without calling a plumber. Understanding the basic anatomy of your kitchen sink taps and following a systematic approach can help you restore a tight seal and silent operation.

First, determine where the leak is coming from. Is it dripping from the spout, leaking around the base, or seeping from the handles? This will tell you which internal component—likely a cartridge, O-ring, or washer—needs attention. For this repair, you’ll typically need an adjustable wrench, screwdrivers (flat-head and Phillips), and a set of replacement parts specific to your kitchen faucet model. Always turn off the water supply valves under the sink before starting any work. For pull down faucet models, also check the hose connection for leaks.

Carefully remove any decorative caps on the handles to expose the screws. Unscrew the handles and use your wrench to loosen the packing nut. For most kitchen sink faucets, the next component you’ll see is the cartridge or stem assembly—the heart of the faucet. Gently pull it out. In a pull down faucet, the mechanism may be more complex, often located in the spout head. Take pictures or notes during disassembly to ensure correct reassembly. Keep small parts like screws and washers in a container so they don’t get lost.

kitchen faucet

kitchen taps

kitchen sink taps

Examine the removed parts. Look for cracked or deformed rubber O-rings and worn-out washers—these are common culprits in leaky kitchen taps. Also check the cartridge for signs of corrosion or mineral buildup. For a precise repair, take the old parts to a hardware store to find exact matches. Replacing the entire cartridge is often more effective than just changing O-rings, especially in newer kitchen sink taps. When installing new parts, apply a thin layer of plumbing grease to O-rings to ensure a smooth, watertight seal.

Insert the new or cleaned cartridge, reassemble the handles and nuts in reverse order, and tighten everything securely—but avoid over-tightening, which can damage threads. Turn the water supply back on slowly and test both hot and cold water functions. Check for leaks around the base, handles, and spout. If you fixed a pull down faucet, also test the spray function and retraction. If a leak persists, you may need to re-check the tightness of connections or ensure the correct replacement parts were used.

To extend the life of your kitchen faucet, clean aerators regularly and avoid overtightening handles. For persistent or complex leaks—especially in faucets with integrated filters or touchless sensors—it may be best to consult a professional. However, for most standard kitchen sink faucets, following these steps can successfully eliminate leaks, saving you money and conserving water.

kitchen sink faucets

pull down kitchen faucet

pull down kitchen faucet

Repairing a leaky kitchen faucet is a manageable DIY task that involves identifying the leak source, replacing worn seals or cartridges, and carefully reassembling the unit. Whether you’re working on traditional kitchen sink taps or a contemporary pull down faucet, this process empowers you to maintain an efficient and drip-free kitchen. With basic tools and patience, you can ensure your kitchen faucet operates smoothly for years to come.

Established in 2008, Xiamen Rainshower Co., Ltd. specializes in the design and manufacture of hand shower, shower head, shattaf. Showerain always pays high attention to the innovative technology and industry development trend, customer-centered and innovation-oriented, combining design and life to provide shower solutions. Showerain has passed ISO9001, Sedex and other multi-system certifications, and has obtained the certification qualifications: CQC water saving, CUPC, WATERSENSE.