Why is my kitchen faucet leaking from the base?

If water seeps around the base of your kitchen faucet, a worn O-ring or loose mounting nut is usually the cause. Here's how to fix it.

Category:Plumbing

Difficulty:Easy

Time:30 min

Success:50%

Updated:Jul 18, 2026

quick_referenceQuick Answer

For Why is my kitchen faucet leaking from the base?, start with "Turn off water supply": Locate the shutoff valves under the sink and turn them clockwise to stop water flow. Open the faucet handle to release pressure. Stop DIY if the faucet body is cracked or corroded. This is listed as a easy recovery and usually takes about 30 min.

verifiedGuide Snapshot

Repair areaPlumbing

Estimated time30 min

DifficultyEasy

Stop conditions3

Last updated Jul 18, 2026. Review the stop conditions before continuing.

account_treeRecovery State

DeviceKitchen Faucet

Current stateLeaking

Specific stateBase Leak

Failed stepO Ring Wear

Likely failure typeWorn Part

DIY boundaryDIY recovery first

paymentsCost decision

help1. Understand the Problem

A leak at the base of a kitchen faucet usually means the O-ring or seal inside the faucet body has worn out, or the mounting nut under the sink has loosened over time. This allows water to escape past the base plate rather than flowing to the spout.

build_circle2. Try This First

Best First Step

Turn off water supply

Locate the shutoff valves under the sink and turn them clockwise to stop water flow. Open the faucet handle to release pressure.

visibility3. Visual Guidance

See what's happening and how to try the first recovery step.

Remove the faucet handlePry off the decorative cap on top of the handle, then use a screwdriver to remove the handle screw. Lift the handle straight off.

Unscrew the bonnet nutUse adjustable pliers or a faucet wrench to unscrew the bonnet nut located under the handle. Set it aside carefully.

Replace the O-ringRemove the old O-ring from the faucet body. Install a new O-ring of the same size, lubricating it lightly with plumber's grease.

Reassemble the faucetThread the bonnet nut back on, tighten it with pliers, reinstall the handle and screw, and snap the decorative cap back in place.

autorenew4. If That Doesn't Work

Try the next recovery options.

Tighten the mounting nutAccess the nut under the sink with a basin wrench and tighten it clockwise. This may stop the leak without replacing parts.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any O-ring for my faucet?expand_more

No, you need an O-ring that matches the exact inner diameter and cross-section of your faucet model. Check your owner's manual or bring the old O-ring to a hardware store.

Why is my faucet leaking after I replaced the O-ring?expand_more

The new O-ring may be the wrong size, not seated properly, or you may have overtightened the bonnet nut, deforming the seal. Disassemble and inspect.

Do I need to call a plumber for a base leak?expand_more

Usually not. Replacing an O-ring is a simple DIY fix. Call a plumber only if the faucet body is cracked or if you cannot remove a seized bonnet nut.

How often should I replace faucet O-rings?expand_more

O-rings typically last 5–10 years. If you notice dripping or leaking at the base, it's time to replace them.