Fix a Dripping Faucet by Replacing the Worn Washer

A faucet that drips once a second wastes over 3,000 gallons a year. On a two-handle faucet, the cause is almost always a flattened rubber washer inside the handle — a part that costs less than a dollar.

How to do it

1. Shut off the water under the sink first. Always.
2. Pop the cap off the handle, remove the screw, and pull the handle and stem out.
3. The washer sits at the bottom of the stem, held by a small screw. Swap it for the same size.
4. Reassemble, turn the water back on slowly, and check for drips.

Single-handle faucets use a cartridge instead — also replaceable. Take the old part to the store so you match it exactly.