Water Leaking From Sink Handle

A leaky sink handle is a common household problem that can waste water and increase your utility bills. It can also be a nuisance, dripping water constantly and making it difficult to use the sink. There are a few different causes of a leaky sink handle, and the repair will vary depending on the cause. In this guide, we will discuss the most common causes of a leaky sink handle and provide step-by-step instructions on how to repair them.

Causes of a Leaky Sink Handle

The most common causes of a leaky sink handle are:

Worn-out washer: The washer is a small rubber or plastic disc that creates a seal between the handle and the faucet body. Over time, the washer can wear out and become less effective at sealing the water, which can cause a leak.
Damaged O-rings: O-rings are small rubber rings that create a seal between the handle and the faucet body. They can become damaged over time, which can cause a leak.
Loose handle: The handle may be loose, which can cause it to move around and create a leak. This can be caused by a worn-out set screw or a loose nut.
Corroded faucet body: The faucet body can become corroded over time, which can create a leak. This is most common in older faucets.

Repairing a Leaky Sink Handle

The repair for a leaky sink handle will vary depending on the cause of the leak. Here are the steps on how to repair the most common causes of a leaky sink handle:

Replacing a Worn-out Washer

Turn off the water supply to the sink.
Remove the handle by unscrewing the set screw that is located on the top of the handle.
Remove the old washer and replace it with a new one.
Reinstall the handle and tighten the set screw.
Turn on the water supply and check for leaks.

Replacing Damaged O-rings

Turn off the water supply to the sink.
Remove the handle by unscrewing the set screw that is located on the top of the handle.
Remove the old O-rings and replace them with new ones.
Reinstall the handle and tighten the set screw.
Turn on the water supply and check for leaks.

Tightening a Loose Handle

Turn off the water supply to the sink.
Remove the handle by unscrewing the set screw that is located on the top of the handle.
Tighten the nut that is located at the base of the handle.
Reinstall the handle and tighten the set screw.
Turn on the water supply and check for leaks.