What's actually causing this
Faucets drip when an internal part wears out and can no longer form a watertight seal. Which part depends on your faucet type: ball, cartridge, compression, or ceramic disc.
What you'll need
Links go to Amazon search results — buy the part that matches your specific model. Uncle AI earns a small commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you.
- Adjustable wrench Shop →
- Screwdriver set Shop →
- Allen wrench set Shop →
- Replacement cartridge Shop →
- Plumber's grease Shop →
Step-by-step fix
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1
Turn off the water supply
Look under the sink for two oval shutoff valves. Turn them clockwise until they stop, then open the faucet to drain the line.
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2
Remove the handle
Pry off the decorative cap on top, remove the screw underneath, and pull the handle straight up.
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3
Remove the worn part
For cartridge faucets, grip and pull the cartridge straight up. For compression faucets, unscrew the packing nut and replace the rubber washer.
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4
Install the new part
Match the old part exactly. Apply plumber's grease to O-rings before installing. Ensure cartridge orientation matches the original.
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5
Reassemble and test
Reverse the disassembly order. Slowly turn the shutoff valves back on. Run the faucet several times and wait 10 minutes before confirming the fix.
In Denver, tap water is moderate (80–150 ppm). Denver's water is moderately hard, sourced from snowmelt and groundwater. Scale buildup is noticeable but less severe than in hard-water metros. Water treatment varies by neighborhood.
Plumbers in Denver typically charge $110–170/hr. Most homeowners budget $800–2,500 for common repairs like fixture replacement, drain clearing, or valve repairs.
Colorado requires state licensing for plumbers. Denver requires permits. Homeowner exemptions limited to minor repairs.
Mix of pre-1950s and post-1970s construction. Older homes may have galvanized piping. Freeze-thaw cycles cause burst risk; insulation and heat tape are common. High altitude means lower boiling/freezing points affect equipment. Copper and PEX are standard in newer homes.
Denver winters regularly bring freezing temperatures. Pipe freeze risk is real, especially in older homes with uninsulated exterior walls. Heat tape and foam insulation on exposed pipes are worthwhile investments. Know where your main water shutoff is before winter.
DIY in Denver: Denver's moderate licensing and outdoor-focused culture support DIY repairs. Freeze-thaw maintenance and seasonal winterization are common homeowner tasks. High altitude knowledge is helpful. Most people hire professionals for electrical and HVAC work.
- The shutoff valve under the sink won't fully close.
- Water is leaking from the pipe itself, not the faucet.
- You see corrosion or mineral buildup on the pipes.
- It's a shower or bathtub faucet inside the wall.
Let Uncle AI diagnose it first.
Describe the problem. Uncle AI asks the right questions and tells you exactly what's broken — and whether you should fix it yourself or call someone in Denver.
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