Fix That Dripping Faucet for Good

That drip-drip-drip wastes hundreds of gallons a year. Most leaks are a $5 washer and 30 minutes away from silence.

How to build it

1. 1

   Shut off the water

   Close the shutoff valves under the sink (turn clockwise). Open the faucet to drain the line. Plug the drain — small screws love falling into it.

2. 2

   Remove the handle

   Pry off the decorative cap with a flathead screwdriver, remove the screw underneath, and lift the handle off. If it's stuck from mineral buildup, a few drops of vinegar around the base will loosen it.

3. 3

   Pull the cartridge or stem

   Unscrew the packing nut with your wrench and pull the cartridge straight up. Take it to the hardware store with you — matching the exact replacement is the whole job.

4. 4

   Replace and reassemble

   Coat the new cartridge's O-rings with plumber's grease, seat it in the same orientation as the old one, and reassemble in reverse order. Turn the water back on slowly and check for leaks.