A kitchen faucet leak is more than just a minor inconvenience. It can be harmful to the environment, increase utility bills and damage your home over time. Whether it's a single-handle faucet leaking or a kitchen tap leaking from the base, you must fix it as soon as possible. In this blog, you’ll learn how to do just that. We’ll also explore their common causes to help you future-proof your kitchen. 

What causes a kitchen faucet leak?

Before learning to fix a kitchen faucet leak, you must first know the main causes of a kitchen faucet leak. Here are the five most common reasons:

1. Worn-out O-rings

These small rubber rings provide a seal between the faucet's components. Over time, they can degrade, leading to faucet leaks.

2. Corroded valve seat

The valve seat is the connector between the faucet and the spout.  A corroded valve seat can result in a kitchen faucet leaking from a spout.

3. Loose parts

Regular use can loosen nuts and bolts within the faucet. This can result in kitchen faucet leaks.

4. Damaged cartridge

In single-handle faucets, the cartridge regulates water flow. A damaged cartridge can cause leaks from the handle or spout.

5. High water pressure

Excessive water pressure can put stress on the faucet components. This can also lead to leaks.

You have to conduct a thorough inspection of your kitchen hardware to figure out the exact cause of your kitchen faucet leak.

Fixing Two Different Kinds of Faucets

How to fix a leaky kitchen faucet with a single handle

     Leaking single-handle faucet

A single-handle faucet leaking from a faulty cartridge can be a common issue. Here's how to fix a kitchen faucet leak for single-handed faucets:

1. Turn off the water valves

Locate the shut-off valves under the sink and turn them off. Open the faucet to release any remaining water.

2. Remove the handle

Remove the screw holding the handle with the help of a screwdriver. Then remove the handle from the faucet.

3. Pull out the cartridge

Loosen the retaining nut using an adjustable wrench. Then, pull out the cartridge. Check it for any damage.

4. Install a new cartridge

Apply the plumber's grease to the new cartridge and insert it into the faucet body. Secure it with the retaining nut.

5. Reattach the handle

Put the handle back onto the faucet and secure it with the screw.

6. Turn on the water supply

Open the shut-off valves to test the faucet for leaks.

How to Fix a Leaky Two-Handle Kitchen Faucet

Two-handle faucets control hot and cold water separately. leaking from these faucets are often because of worn washers or O-rings. Here's how to fix it:

1. Turn off the water valves

Shut off both hot and cold water valves under the sink. Open the faucet to drain any remaining water.

2. Remove the handles

Remove the screw holding the handle with the help of a screwdriver. Then, remove the handles from the faucet.

3. Pull out the stem assembly

Loosen and remove the packing nut with the help of an adjustable wrench. Next, pull out the stem assembly.

4. Replace washers/O-rings

Check the washers and O-rings for wear or damage. Replace them as needed, applying the plumber's grease to the new parts.

5. Reassemble the faucet

Insert the stem assembly back into the faucet body. Next, tighten the packing nut and attach the handles.

6. Turn on the water supply

Open the shut-off valves and test the faucet for leaks.

Final Thought

Be it a kitchen faucet leak for single-handle or two-handle faucets, or leaking from the base of the spout. You have to address it as soon as possible. It will help prevent water waste and potential damage to your kitchen. If you're not confident about the repair process, you can always consult a professional plumber.

Remember, regular maintenance of your kitchen hardware will keep your faucets functioning for a long time. It also helps to choose high-quality faucets from the get-go to save yourself the hassle of frequent leaks, repairs or replacements.

Residence Supply offers premium-quality bathroom and kitchen faucets at the best prices. 

Wasser Kitchen Faucet by Residence Supply

Remember to always be patient and perform basic troubleshooting first to understand the root cause of the leaking before moving on to the steps mentioned in this blog. Now that you’ve learned how to fix kitchen faucet leaks, maintaining your home just got a whole lot easier.