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 Orlando, tap water is very hard (220–300 ppm). Orlando's water is very hard, sourced from limestone aquifers. Mineral deposits are severe. Water softeners or filters are very common. Salt intrusion is a growing concern near coast.
Plumbers in Orlando typically charge $100–160/hr. Most homeowners budget $800–2,500 for common repairs like fixture replacement, drain clearing, or valve repairs.
Florida has strict licensing. Plumbing requires state-licensed plumber. Homeowner exemptions very limited.
Majority post-1980s elevated construction. Copper is standard. Very hard water means water heaters fail faster (6–8 years). Sediment buildup is severe. Elevated homes due to flood risk. Storm surge can flood systems.
DIY in Orlando: Orlando's strict Florida licensing, hurricane codes, and hard water conditions restrict DIY repairs. Hire licensed professionals for plumbing, electrical, and HVAC. Very hard water management requires professional knowledge.
- 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 Orlando.
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