A leaky faucet dripping once per second wastes over 3,000 gallons of water a year. In Twin Falls where water bills run high in summer, that adds up fast. Here's how to fix the three most common faucet types yourself.

Tools and Parts You'll Need

- Adjustable wrench and channel-lock pliers - Phillips and flathead screwdrivers - Replacement cartridge or stem packing (bring your faucet model number to the store — we stock most brands) - Plumber's grease - Teflon tape

Ball Faucets (Most Common in Twin Falls Kitchens)

1. Shut off the supply valves under the sink. 2. Remove the decorative cap and handle screw. 3. Lift off the handle, then the cap and collar. 4. Replace the seats, springs, and O-rings from a repair kit matched to your faucet brand. 5. Reassemble in reverse. Hand-tighten first, then snug with pliers — don't overtighten.

Cartridge Faucets (Common in Bathrooms)

1. Shut off water. Remove handle cap, screw, and handle. 2. Pull out the cartridge — some have a retaining clip. 3. Match the old cartridge at our plumbing counter. Moen, Delta, and Kohler cartridges are in stock. 4. Insert the new cartridge with the ears aligned. 5. Reassemble and test.

Compression Faucets (Older Twin Falls Homes)

1. Remove the stem by unscrewing counterclockwise. 2. Replace the worn rubber seat washer at the bottom of the stem. 3. Wrap the stem threads with Teflon tape. 4. Reassemble and test.

Still leaking? Bring the old cartridge or stem to our plumbing counter at Twin Falls Hardware & Supply and we'll identify the exact replacement part.