How do I fix a leaky faucet?

A leaky faucet is one of the most common plumbing issues homeowners face, and in many cases it's a manageable DIY repair — but the approach depends entirely on what type of faucet you have.

Identifying Your Faucet Type

The fix varies significantly depending on whether you have a ball faucet, cartridge faucet, ceramic disc faucet, or an older compression faucet. Compression faucets (common in older Ottawa homes) leak because rubber washers wear out — these are the most DIY-friendly repairs. Cartridge and ceramic disc faucets are also repairable but require matching the exact replacement cartridge to your brand (Moen, Delta, Kohler, etc.).

The Basic Repair Process

Start by shutting off the water supply under the sink — turn both hot and cold valves clockwise until they stop. Open the faucet to release any remaining pressure. Remove the handle (usually held by a screw hidden under a decorative cap), then access the cartridge or stem. For a compression faucet, you're looking for a worn rubber washer at the bottom of the stem — replace it with an identical one from a hardware store. For cartridge faucets, pull the cartridge straight out and bring it to the store to match the replacement exactly.

Ottawa-Specific Context

Ottawa's water has moderate mineral content, which accelerates wear on rubber washers and cartridge seals — so leaky faucets are especially common here. Replacement parts for major brands run $10–$40 at stores like Home Depot or Rona. If the job escalates (corroded valves, damaged valve seat, or you can't shut off the water), a professional faucet repair in Ottawa typically runs $150–$300 including parts.

When to Call a Pro

Stop and call a plumber if you find corroded or seized shut-off valves under the sink — forcing them can cause a burst pipe. Also call if the valve seat inside the faucet body is damaged, as resurfacing or replacing it requires specialized tools. A faucet dripping once per second wastes roughly 3,000 litres of water per year, so don't put off the repair.

Next Steps

If you're comfortable with basic tools, grab the replacement parts and give it a try — most cartridge swaps take under an hour. If you run into trouble or the shut-off valves won't cooperate, Ottawa Pro Plumbing can handle the repair quickly and ensure everything is properly sealed. Feel free to request a free estimate if you'd like a professional to take a look.