Household leaks, especially from faucets, can waste surprising amounts of water while driving up your bills. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) notes that a faucet dripping once per second can waste over 3,000 gallons of water annually—enough for more than 180 showers. Fortunately, fixing a minor leak like this is often a quick DIY task. Here’s how to tackle a dripping faucet.
Steps to Fix a Leaky Faucet
- Turn Off the Water Supply: Find the shut-off valve under the sink and turn it clockwise. No valve? Shut off the main water supply instead.
- Drain the Faucet: Open the faucet to let out leftover water and pressure.
- Remove the Handle: Unscrew the hidden screw (often under a cap) with a screwdriver and lift the handle off.
- Replace the Washer or O-Ring: Take apart the faucet to find the worn washer or O-ring—the usual leak culprits. Bring the old one to a hardware store for a matching replacement, then install it.
- Reassemble and Test: Put everything back together, turn the water on, and check for drips. Tighten if needed.
Why It Matters
The EPA highlights that household leaks waste nearly 10,000 gallons per home annually on average, with faucet drips being a major contributor. A small fix can cut water waste and lower bills. For tougher leaks—like a burst pipe—a plumber might be your best bet. Ready to stop that drip? Give it a go!
*Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), WaterSense program data on household leaks and faucet waste.
