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 Los Angeles, tap water is hard (200–260 ppm). LA's water is moderately hard, sourced from multiple suppliers. Scale buildup is noticeable on showerheads and fixtures within 1–2 years. Water heater sediment accumulation is accelerated. Many households install water softeners or filters.
Plumbers in Los Angeles typically charge $120–180/hr. Most homeowners budget $800–2,500 for common repairs like fixture replacement, drain clearing, or valve repairs.
California requires state licensure (CSLB). Homeowners can perform some plumbing with a homeowner permit, but complex work needs a licensed contractor. LA Department of Building and Safety issues permits.
Post-WWII and 1970s-1980s construction commonly used polybutylene piping, which can fail and may be difficult to insure. Copper is standard in newer homes. Drought-conscious homeowners often retrofit to low-flow fixtures.
DIY in Los Angeles: California's licensing requirements are strict, but homeowner exemptions exist for simple plumbing and electrical. Most homeowners hire contractors for anything beyond basic repairs. Water efficiency retrofits are DIY-friendly.
- 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.
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