How to Replace Faucet Washers to Fix Drips

A dripping faucet is more than just an annoyance—it can waste hundreds of gallons of water each year and slowly drive up your water bill. The steady drip… drip… drip often points to a worn-out faucet washer, especially in older compression-style faucets. Fortunately, replacing a faucet washer is a beginner-friendly DIY task that requires minimal tools and only a short amount of time. This guide explains everything you need to know to fix faucet drips effectively and confidently.

Understanding Why Faucet Washers Fail

Faucet washers are small rubber or silicone rings that create a watertight seal when the faucet is turned off. Over time, constant friction, mineral buildup, and water pressure cause washers to harden, crack, or flatten. Once the washer no longer seals properly, water escapes, resulting in a persistent drip.

Compression faucets—commonly found in older homes—are the most likely to use washers. If your faucet leaks only when turned off, a worn washer is usually the culprit.

Tools and Materials Required

To replace a faucet washer, you’ll need:

• Adjustable wrench

• Flathead and Phillips screwdrivers

• Replacement washers (exact size match)

• Plumber’s grease

• Small cloth or towel

Keeping a towel nearby helps prevent losing small screws and protects the sink surface from scratches.

Step 1: Shut Off the Water Supply

Always start by turning off the water. Look under the sink for the hot and cold shut-off valves and turn them clockwise. If your sink doesn’t have shut-off valves, turn off your home’s main water supply. Open the faucet fully to drain any remaining water.

Step 2: Remove the Faucet Handle

Most faucet handles are secured with a screw hidden beneath a decorative cap. Gently pry off the cap, remove the screw, and lift the handle straight up. If the handle is stuck due to mineral buildup, wiggle it gently rather than forcing it.

Step 3: Remove the Stem Assembly

Using an adjustable wrench, loosen the stem assembly by turning it counterclockwise. Carefully pull it out and lay the components in order on a towel. This will make reassembly much easier.

Step 4: Replace the Washer

At the bottom of the stem, you’ll find the washer secured by a small screw. Remove the screw and the old washer. Take the washer to a hardware store if you’re unsure about the size—using the correct size is critical. Install the new washer and tighten the screw snugly without overtightening.

Step 5: Lubricate for Better Performance

Apply a small amount of plumber’s grease to the washer and stem threads. This reduces friction, ensures smooth operation, and helps prevent future wear.

Step 6: Reassemble the Faucet

Insert the stem back into the faucet body and tighten it securely. Replace the handle, screw it back into place, and reinstall the decorative cap.

Step 7: Restore Water and Test

Slowly turn the water supply back on. Open and close the faucet several times, checking carefully for leaks. If the drip is gone, the repair was successful.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using the wrong washer size

2. Overtightening parts, which can damage threads

3. Forgetting to apply plumber’s grease

4. Skipping water shut-off before starting

When a Washer Isn’t the Problem

If your faucet still drips after replacing the washer, the valve seat may be corroded or damaged. In that case, a valve seat repair or faucet replacement may be necessary, and calling a professional plumber could save time and frustration.

Replacing a faucet washer is a simple, cost-effective solution to one of the most common household plumbing problems. With basic tools and a little patience, you can stop leaks, save water, and extend the life of your faucet—all without hiring a plumber.

Thanks for reading! I’m Jeff Hendricks, your trusted Realtor.