Here is a look at how to repair the different types of faucets.

Number one: Compression faucet repairs
If the compression faucet is leaking from the handle, you will need to tighten the packing nut, in some cases you will need to replace the packing nut. The packing nut can be a washer, an O-ring, or twine that is wound around the compression stem. If water is dripping from the spout of this type of faucet, you will need to replace the washer or replace a corroded valve seat. To do this you will need to turn off the shutoff valve for the faucet, take off the faucet handle, and remove the stem. Next, you will need to replace the worn out parts with one that is the same size. While doing this you should take the time to lubricate the threads of the stem with silicone grease. If your house is filled with this style of faucet, you should keep a faucet repair kit around the house, which is a box of assorted washers and O-rings.

Number two: Disc faucet repairs
With a disk faucet, the only way that it is going to leak is when the inlet and outlet seals wear or sediment builds up in the faucet inlets. The disc assemblies don't often wear out, but in some cases, the inlet and outlet seals fail. To fix this you will need to shut off the water to the faucet and replace the worn seals with duplicates of the original ones. When you buy replacements, make sure you take the old ones with you so you can get the right parts. When putting the new seals on make sure that you realign the seals on the bottom of the cartridge with the holes in the faucet.

Number three: Cartridge faucet repairs
These faucets leak when the O-ring cushioning the cartridge stem wears or breaks. If they start dripping, it usually means that the cartridge needs to be replaced. You can buy replacements at a plumbing supply store, home improvement centers, and some hardware stores. In most cases though they are going to need to be special ordered. When ordering or buying the new part make sure that you buy a replacement that matches the original exactly.

Number four: Ball faucet repairs
These faucets are only made by Delta and Price Pfister and they will only start dripping when the inlet seals wear. They will only start leaking when the O-rings wear or break. If the handle on these faucets start leaking you will need to tighten the adjusting ring after lifting the handle off the assembly, if the handle still leaks, replace the cap. If the spout is dripping, you will need to replace the inlet seals and springs or even the ball might need to be replaced.

No matter what type of faucet you have, the one thing you want to avoid doing when the faucet is dripping is torque down on a faucet to stop the drip. This can cause more damage to the faucet. If the faucet is old and is constantly, leaking you should consider replacing it with a new kitchen faucet.