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With the faucet fully reassembled, you can now test your work. Slowly turn both the hot and cold water shutoff valves counter-clockwise to restore the water supply. Check for any immediate leaks under the sink around the supply lines and valves. Then, turn the faucet handle on and move it around to test both hot and cold water flow. Carefully inspect for leaks around the base of the spout and from under the handle. If everything is dry, the repair is complete.

You're viewing a step from: How to Fix a Leaky Single-Handle Kitchen Faucet (Ball-Valve Type)

Beginner

30 minutes

2/4 Inventory

This guide provides step-by-step instructions for repairing a common single-handle ball-valve kitchen faucet that is leaking. The process involves shutting off the water supply, disassembling the faucet handle and body, replacing worn internal components like the ball, seats, springs, and O-rings using a specific repair kit, and then reassembling the faucet and testing for leaks.

Based on content fromrobdude1969· 13K subscribers

Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is this repair for a beginner, and how long should it take?

This repair is rated beginner-friendly, but requires patience and attention to detail. For a first-timer, expect to spend 1-2 hours from start to finish, including gathering tools and testing. The cost is usually just the repair kit, which is significantly cheaper than replacing the entire faucet.

How can I tell if my leaky faucet is a 'ball-valve type' and ensure I buy the correct repair kit?

Ball-valve faucets typically have a single handle that rotates and tilts to control both temperature and flow. To confirm, carefully remove the handle; if you see a cap underneath that unscrews to reveal a metal or plastic ball, seats, and springs, it's a ball-valve type. Always check your faucet's brand and model (often Delta) to find the exact replacement kit, like the 'DANCO Repair Kit for Delta W/212SS Ball 86971'.

What should I do if I can't find the water shut-off valves under my sink, or if they're stuck?

If you can't locate the hot and cold shut-off valves under the sink, you'll need to turn off the main water supply to your entire house, usually located in the basement or near the water meter. If the under-sink valves are stuck, try gently using an adjustable wrench to turn them, but avoid excessive force to prevent damage. If they still won't budge, it's safer to use the main shut-off or call a professional.

I replaced the parts, but my faucet is still leaking. What could be the issue?

First, double-check that all components, especially the new springs, seats, and the ball, are installed correctly and oriented properly according to the repair kit instructions. Ensure the new O-rings are lubricated with plumber's grease and seated perfectly without any twists or pinches. Sometimes, either over-tightening or under-tightening the cap can cause leaks, so adjust carefully.