Miles SinclairBy Miles Sinclair

Updated November 2026

To repair a leaking faucet handle, you shut off the water, remove the handle and trim, then replace the worn cartridge, stem or O-rings that are letting water past the seal. Most single-handle and two-handle faucets can be fixed in under an hour with a screwdriver, an Allen wrench and a replacement part. The steps below cover how to identify the source of the leak and fix it so the drip stops for good.

Find Where the Leak Is Coming From

A handle that drips from the spout is usually a cartridge or stem problem, while water seeping around the base of the handle points to a worn O-ring or packing nut. Turn the handle off and watch closely. If the spout drips, the internal seal is failing. If water weeps from the handle collar, the seals around the stem are the likely culprit. Identifying the leak first keeps you from taking apart more than you need to.

Shopping for one? See our guide: Bathroom Moen Faucet Repair: Lever Handle Kit Review (2026).

Shut Off the Water and Disassemble the Handle

Turn off the water supply under the sink or at the main shutoff, then open the faucet to drain the remaining pressure. Next, follow these steps:

  1. Pry off the decorative cap on top of the handle with a flat-head screwdriver or fingernail.
  2. Remove the screw underneath and lift the handle straight off the stem.
  3. Unscrew the packing nut or retaining clip to expose the cartridge or stem assembly.
  4. Pull the cartridge out. On many models, a small retaining clip holds it in place.

Set the parts in order on a towel so you can reassemble them correctly. Many manufacturers, including Delta and Moen, publish exploded diagrams for their faucets that show the exact part sequence.

Replace the Worn Parts

Once the cartridge or stem is out, inspect it. Look for cracked rubber, mineral buildup, or a scored surface. Replace the cartridge if it shows any wear, since a single damaged seal usually means the rest are close behind. For compression-style faucets, replace the rubber washer and O-rings. Coat new O-rings with a thin layer of plumber’s silicone grease before installing them, and make sure each one sits fully in its groove. Do not overtighten the packing nut, since that can crack the body or pinch the new seal.

Reassemble and Test

Reinstall the cartridge or stem with the same orientation you noted during removal. Replace the handle, the screw and the decorative cap. Turn the water back on slowly, then test the handle through its full range of motion. Check both the spout and the base for drips. If water still leaks, recheck the cartridge seating before assuming a new part is defective.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Skipping the water shutoff, which leads to a spray of water in your face.
  • Buying a cartridge by feel instead of by brand and model. Bring the old part to the store or match the model number.
  • Forgetting to lubricate new O-rings, which can tear during installation.
  • Overtightening the handle screw, which can strip the threads.
  • Mixing up hot and cold sides when reinstalling a two-handle faucet.
  • A plumber’s silicone grease helps new O-rings slide into place without tearing and keeps them sealed over time. View on Amazon
  • A basic faucet repair kit with assorted O-rings and washers gives you spares for common brands. View on Amazon
  • A set of Allen wrenches covers the hex screws found on many modern handles and cartridges. View on Amazon

FAQ

Do I need to replace the whole faucet to fix a leaking handle?

Usually not. Most leaks come from a worn cartridge, stem or O-ring, and these parts are sold separately for common brands.

How do I know if I need a new cartridge or just an O-ring?

If the leak is at the base of the handle, an O-ring is often enough. If water drips from the spout when the handle is off, the cartridge is usually the problem.

When should I call a professional?

If the faucet is an older or specialty model with corroded parts you cannot remove, or if the leak involves damaged pipes, consult a licensed plumber.

Conclusion

A leaking faucet handle is usually a simple fix once you find the source of the leak. Shut off the water, replace the worn cartridge, stem or O-rings, and test your work slowly. With the right part and a careful reassembly, the drip should stop and stay stopped.

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Miles Sinclair

About Miles Sinclair

Miles Sinclair is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our kitchen faucets & sinks guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.