Introduction
A leaky faucet is one of the most common plumbing issues in NYC apartments, and it can waste thousands of gallons of water per year — driving up your water bill and irritating your neighbors in the unit below. The good news is that most faucet leaks are caused by worn-out washers, O-rings, or cartridges that are inexpensive and straightforward to replace. With a few basic tools and about an hour of your time, you can fix most dripping faucets yourself without calling a plumber.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Step 1 Turn Off the Water Supply
Locate the shut-off valves beneath the sink and turn them clockwise until fully closed. If your NYC apartment has older plumbing without individual shut-off valves, you may need to shut off water at the main valve for your unit. Turn on the faucet to release any remaining water pressure and confirm the supply is off. Place a towel in the sink basin to catch small parts and prevent them from falling down the drain.
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Step 2 Remove the Faucet Handle
Pop off the decorative cap on top of the handle using a flat-head screwdriver or a butter knife. Underneath, you will find a screw — remove it with a Phillips-head or hex key screwdriver depending on the faucet model. Gently pull the handle straight up and off. If it is stuck from mineral buildup (common with NYC's hard water), wrap it in a rag and use gentle twisting pressure. Avoid prying against the sink surface to prevent cosmetic damage.
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Step 3 Identify and Remove the Faulty Component
With the handle removed, you will see either a cartridge, ball assembly, or stem with a rubber washer depending on your faucet type. Use an adjustable wrench to unscrew the packing nut and pull out the stem or cartridge. Inspect the rubber washer or O-ring at the bottom — if it is flattened, cracked, or visibly worn, that is your culprit. Take the old part with you to the hardware store to find an exact size match.
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Step 4 Replace the Worn Parts
Install the new washer, O-ring, or cartridge in the same orientation as the original. Apply a thin layer of plumber's grease to rubber components to ensure a good seal and make future disassembly easier. Seat the stem or cartridge back into the faucet body and hand-tighten the packing nut before giving it a quarter-turn with the wrench. Over-tightening can crack older brass fittings common in pre-war NYC buildings, so use a gentle touch.
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Step 5 Reassemble and Test
Slide the handle back onto the stem, replace the screw, and snap the decorative cap into place. Slowly turn the shut-off valves counterclockwise to restore water flow. Turn the faucet on and off several times, checking for drips with the faucet in the off position. Let it sit for five minutes and check again. If the drip persists, the valve seat itself may be damaged and will need resurfacing with a seat grinder or professional replacement.
When to Call a Professional
Call a licensed plumber if the faucet continues to leak after replacing the washer and O-rings, as the valve seat may be corroded and need professional resurfacing. You should also call a pro if you discover corrosion on the supply lines, if you cannot locate or turn the shut-off valves, or if the faucet body itself is cracked. In older NYC co-ops and pre-war buildings, plumbing can be interconnected — a seemingly simple repair can affect neighboring units if something goes wrong.
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