How to Fix a Leaky Bathroom Sink Faucet with a Double Handle

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

Is that incessant drip, drip, drip of a leaky faucet driving you up the wall? Don't worry, this is usually something you can fix yourself in under an hour, even if you don't have a lot of home improvement experience. Even better, you can usually replace the worn-out part and stop the leak for under $50—much cheaper than calling out a professional plumber. Taking the handle apart is pretty much the same regardless of the type of faucet you have, but then the fix will differ somewhat depending on whether you have a cartridge, ceramic disk, or compression handle.

Method 1
Method 1 of 4:

Disassembling a Bathroom Sink Faucet

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/ab\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/ab\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-1.jpg\/aid12873629-v4-728px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    [1] Open the cabinet under the sink and you'll see the shutoff valves. Since you have 2 handles, you'll likely also have 2 shutoff valves—left for hot and right for cold. Shut them off one at a time, then see if your leak stops. That'll tell you which handle is the culprit. [2]
    • Even if only one handle is leaky, it might be worth your time to go ahead and replace the parts in both of them. If they're both the same age and one of them is leaking, it's only a matter of time before the other one starts leaking as well. [3]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3f\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/3f\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-2.jpg\/aid12873629-v4-728px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    This clears any of the water that was already in the pipes before you turned the water off (there shouldn't be much). You might still have a drip or two, but it'll be fine. [4]
    Advertisement
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/52\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/52\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-3.jpg\/aid12873629-v4-728px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    This keeps any screws or small parts from accidentally falling down the drain. A towel also protects the finish of your sink if you happen to drop a tool you're using. [5]
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e0\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e0\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-4.jpg\/aid12873629-v4-728px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Some of these caps simply twist off, while others have a plastic cap you need to pop out first. Use the tip of a nail file or other slender object to get under the cap and pop it off. [6]
    • If you can't figure out how to get the handles apart, search the brand name of the faucet to find the instruction guide online. It'll tell you what you need to do. [7]
    • Cover polished surfaces with masking tape before you take them off. [8]
    5. Advertisement
Method 2
Method 2 of 4:

Fixing a Leaky Cartridge Faucet

PDF download Download Article

A cartridge faucet has a slender plastic or metal cylinder that sits just inside the faucet handle and controls the water flow. [9]

  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/db\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/db\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-5.jpg\/aid12873629-v4-728px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Use a set of pliers to loosen the nut first if it's tight. Then, unscrew it the rest of the way with your fingers and set it out of the way. [10]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3e\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/3e\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-6.jpg\/aid12873629-v4-728px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Grip the sides of the cartridge securely and slide it upward. If you feel resistance when you pull upward, twist it a quarter-turn in either direction to loosen it, then try again. [11]
    • Some cartridges require a special cartridge-removal tool. If you're trying to get it out with pliers and having a hard time, search your faucet brand on the internet to find an instruction guide. If a special tool is needed, it'll tell you.
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/8f\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-7.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/8f\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-7.jpg\/aid12873629-v4-728px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-7.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Expect each cartridge to cost between $10 and $80 depending on the brand. [12] If you have the instruction manual for your faucet, copy down the part number for the cartridge as well.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/9d\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-8.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/9d\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-8.jpg\/aid12873629-v4-728px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-8.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    [13] Slot the cartridge back into place the same way the old one was. Once it's straight and locked in place, screw the retainer nut back on top. [14]
    5. Advertisement
Method 3
Method 3 of 4:

Repairing a Leaky Ceramic Disk Faucet

PDF download Download Article

Ceramic disk faucets have metal stems under the handle with ceramic disks inside them. These disks rotate to control the water flow. [15]

  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/36\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-9.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/36\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-9.jpg\/aid12873629-v4-728px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-9.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    These decorative covers typically just pull off. If it's stuck on there, give it a twist and see if it screws on instead. [16]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d8\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-11.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-11.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/d8\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-11.jpg\/aid12873629-v4-728px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-11.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Use a knife-point or pliers to pry out the seals. The replacement stem comes with new seals, so you can throw the old ones away. [17]
    • If you notice dirt build-up or debris in the faucet, clean it out with some basic bathroom cleaner or a damp rag dipped in white vinegar.
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/9a\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-12.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-12.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/9a\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-12.jpg\/aid12873629-v4-728px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-12.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Ceramic stems typically cost between $15 and $50 to replace. If you take the old one with you, it'll be easier to match it up with a replacement. You can also check your faucet's user manual for a specific part number. [18]
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/bc\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-13.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-13.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/bc\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-13.jpg\/aid12873629-v4-728px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-13.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The correct stem will slot right into place. You might have to twist the stem a quarter-turn one way or the other to seat it properly. [19]
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/61\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-14.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-14.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/61\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-14.jpg\/aid12873629-v4-728px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-14.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Add on each of the parts in the reverse order that you removed them. Then turn the water back on and test your handles—you should be drip-free. [20]
    6. Advertisement
Method 4
Method 4 of 4:

Stopping a Leak in a Compression Faucet

PDF download Download Article

Compression faucets control water flow with a rubber washer. This is an older design that isn't common in the 21st century, but you still see them in older homes. [21]

  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/a6\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-15.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-15.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/a6\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-15.jpg\/aid12873629-v4-728px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-15.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    You might need pliers to loosen the nut, although you should be able to unscrew it with just your fingers. Hold on to the valve stem while you turn the nut to keep it steady. [22]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/64\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-16.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-16.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/64\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-16.jpg\/aid12873629-v4-728px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-16.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Use pliers to hold the valve stem if you can't get a good grip on it with your fingers. After a few turns, you should be able to pull the entire thing completely out. [23]
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/fa\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-17.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-17.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/fa\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-17.jpg\/aid12873629-v4-728px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-17.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Turn this screw slowly and carefully, as it's likely to break apart if it's worn or corroded. With the screw off, the washer will just fall off on your hand. Hang onto it so you can match it up with a replacement at the hardware store. [24]
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/09\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-18.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-18.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/09\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-18.jpg\/aid12873629-v4-728px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-18.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Get replacements that are the exact same size, shape, and thickness as the old one. They shouldn't cost you more than a few dollars. [25]
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/45\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-19.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-19.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/45\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-19.jpg\/aid12873629-v4-728px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-19.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    [26] Set the washer on the end of the stem, then slowly turn the screw to tighten it so it holds the washer in place. Hold the stem tightly to keep it from turning. [27]
  6. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/a6\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-20.jpg\/v4-460px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-20.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/a6\/Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-20.jpg\/aid12873629-v4-728px-Fix-a-Leaky-Bathroom-Sink-Faucet-with-a-Double-Handle-Step-20.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Make sure the stem is straight as you set it back into the housing, then screw it back in. Set the packing nut on top and screw it on tight. [28]
    • You might want to lubricate the stem with a little plumber's grease before you put it back into the housing. This isn't strictly necessary, so if you don't have any, don't worry. [29]
    7. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    How can you tell which side of a faucet is leaking?
    Patrick Johns
    Home Improvement Specialist
    Patrick Johns is a Home Improvement Specialist and the Owner of CatchAll Handyman Services. With more than 28 years of experience, he has worked on a variety of home improvement projects, such as carpentry, plumbing, and door and window installations in both commercial and residential properties.
    Patrick Johns
    Home Improvement Specialist
    Expert Answer
    Stick your finger under the faucet and see what temperature the water is. If it's a little warm, the leak is coming from the hot side of the faucet. If it's cool, you can assume that the leak is on the cold side of the faucet. Just keep in mind that once one handle starts leaking, the other will likely start leaking soon, too.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 0 Helpful 1
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      • All faucets have user manuals with instructions on how to disassemble them and replace parts. Search the brand of your faucet on the internet to download the manual—it can really help you with anything that might be specific to your brand. [30]
        Thanks
      • The specific tools you'll need will vary depending on your faucet. If you can find that user manual online, it'll tell you exactly what tools you need. Otherwise, just keep your toolbox handy and grab what you need as you go along. [31]
        Thanks
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      Warnings

      • Always shut off the water to your sink before taking off the faucet handles or starting any kind of sink repair. [32]
        Thanks
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Open a Locked Bathroom Door
      How to
      Remove a Toilet Seat
      How to
      Vent a Bathroom with No Outside Access
      How to
      Roll Towels for Storage
      2 Ways to Transform Your Bathroom Into a Sauna
      How to
      Make New Towels More Absorbent
      What Causes a Gargling Toilet during a Shower & How to Fix It
      Easy Steps for Cleaning a Faucet Aerator
      How to
      Fix a Leaky Delta Bathroom Sink Faucet
      How to
      Cut Holes in Tile for Shower Fixtures
      How to Cover a Window in Your Shower
      How to
      Plumb a Bathroom
      How to Remove a Towel Bar
      How to
      Fold Bath Towels
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ Patrick Johns. Home Improvement Specialist. Expert Interview. 5 April 2022.
      2. ↑ https://www.cityofjal.us/water_conservation/the_facts_on_leaks___household_water_usage/fix_faucet_leaks.php
      3. ↑ Patrick Johns. Home Improvement Specialist. Expert Interview. 5 April 2022.
      4. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/leaky-faucet/
      5. ↑ https://www.cityofjal.us/water_conservation/the_facts_on_leaks___household_water_usage/fix_faucet_leaks.php
      6. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/leaky-faucet/
      7. ↑ https://www.cityofjal.us/water_conservation/the_facts_on_leaks___household_water_usage/fix_faucet_leaks.php
      8. ↑ https://www.cityofjal.us/water_conservation/the_facts_on_leaks___household_water_usage/fix_faucet_leaks.php
      9. ↑ https://environmental.marionfl.org/home/showpublisheddocument/7077/635672832339930000
      1. ↑ https://environmental.marionfl.org/home/showpublisheddocument/7077/635672832339930000
      2. ↑ https://environmental.marionfl.org/home/showpublisheddocument/7077/635672832339930000
      3. ↑ https://homeguide.com/costs/shower-cartridge-replacement-cost
      4. ↑ Patrick Johns. Home Improvement Specialist. Expert Interview. 5 April 2022.
      5. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/leaky-faucet/
      6. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/leaky-faucet/
      7. ↑ https://environmental.marionfl.org/home/showpublisheddocument/7077/635672832339930000
      8. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/leaky-faucet/
      9. ↑ https://youtu.be/HpYfBCvK4Bg?t=71
      10. ↑ https://www.bobvila.com/articles/leaky-faucet/
      11. ↑ https://environmental.marionfl.org/home/showpublisheddocument/7077/635672832339930000
      12. ↑ https://www.thisoldhouse.com/bathrooms/21015039/the-facts-on-faucets
      13. ↑ https://environmental.marionfl.org/home/showpublisheddocument/7077/635672832339930000
      14. ↑ https://youtu.be/aGAUkiGfOq4?t=76
      15. ↑ https://youtu.be/aGAUkiGfOq4?t=86
      16. ↑ https://environmental.marionfl.org/home/showpublisheddocument/7077/635672832339930000
      17. ↑ Patrick Johns. Home Improvement Specialist. Expert Interview. 5 April 2022.
      18. ↑ https://youtu.be/aGAUkiGfOq4?t=117
      19. ↑ https://youtu.be/aGAUkiGfOq4?t=131
      20. ↑ https://environmental.marionfl.org/home/showpublisheddocument/7077/635672832339930000
      21. ↑ https://www.cityofjal.us/water_conservation/the_facts_on_leaks___household_water_usage/fix_faucet_leaks.php
      22. ↑ https://environmental.marionfl.org/home/showpublisheddocument/7077/635672832339930000
      23. ↑ https://www.cityofjal.us/water_conservation/the_facts_on_leaks___household_water_usage/fix_faucet_leaks.php

      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 15,397 times.

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement