Why is my kitchen faucet dripping from the spout?

A dripping kitchen faucet spout usually means a worn cartridge or O-ring. Fix it yourself with basic tools in under an hour.

Category:Plumbing

Difficulty:Easy

Time:30 min

Success:50%

Updated:Jul 16, 2026

quick_referenceQuick Answer

For Why is my kitchen faucet dripping from the spout?, 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 relieve pressure. Stop DIY if water supply valves won't shut off completely. 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 16, 2026. Review the stop conditions before continuing.

account_treeRecovery State

DeviceKitchen Faucet

Current stateDripping

Specific stateSpout Drip

Failed stepCartridge Wear

Likely failure typeWorn Part

DIY boundaryDIY recovery first

paymentsCost decision

help1. Understand the Problem

A persistent drip from the faucet spout is typically caused by a degraded cartridge or O-ring inside the handle assembly. Over time, mineral buildup and rubber wear break the seal, allowing water to seep through. Replacing these small parts restores a tight shutoff and stops the drip.

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 relieve pressure.

visibility3. Visual Guidance

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

Remove the handlePry off the decorative cap (if present) and unscrew the handle screw with a Phillips or Allen wrench. Lift the handle off the cartridge stem.

Extract the old cartridgeUse pliers or a cartridge puller to grip and pull the cartridge straight up. Note its orientation for the new one.

Install the new cartridgeInsert the new cartridge in the same orientation. Press it firmly into the faucet body until it seats flush.

Reassemble and testReplace the handle and screw, turn the water supply back on, and check for drips. If still dripping, repeat with a fresh cartridge.

autorenew4. If That Doesn't Work

Try the next recovery options.

Replace the entire faucetIf the faucet is very old or the cartridge is unavailable, install a new faucet for a long-term fix.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know which cartridge to buy?expand_more

Check the brand and model of your faucet (often on the base). Many faucets use standard cartridges like a 1224 or 1225. Remove the old cartridge and bring it to a hardware store for a match.

Can I fix a drip without replacing the cartridge?expand_more

Sometimes cleaning mineral deposits off the cartridge with vinegar can help, but replacement is more reliable and long-lasting.

Why is my faucet still dripping after replacing the cartridge?expand_more

Ensure the cartridge is fully seated and the handle is not overtightened. Also check the O-rings on the spout base—they may need replacement too.

Do I need special tools to remove a stuck cartridge?expand_more

A cartridge puller tool helps, but pliers and a flathead screwdriver can work. Spray penetrating oil if it's stuck from mineral buildup.