Tighten Packing Nut or Adjusting Ring

When water leaks around the handle base while the faucet is running, the packing nut or adjusting ring is likely loose. This is a quick fix that requires no replacement parts in most cases.

Steps

Turn off the water supply valves under the sink. Remove the faucet handle by prying off the decorative cap and unscrewing the handle screw. Locate the packing nut directly beneath where the handle sits, surrounding the stem.

Tightening

Using an adjustable wrench, turn the packing nut clockwise by a small increment, roughly one-eighth to one-quarter turn. Avoid overtightening, which can make the handle difficult to operate or crack the nut.

If Tightening Alone Fails

The packing material inside the nut may be worn. Remove the nut, wrap new packing string (graphite-impregnated) around the stem, and reinstall the nut. Reassemble the handle and turn the water back on to test.