A leak from the base of the faucet almost always means one thing: the O-rings or the base gasket have failed. This is a DIY fix that takes 30–60 minutes and costs under $20. Do not ignore it — water sitting under the faucet will rot the cabinet floor and breed mould fast.
When to call a plumber: If the faucet body itself is cracked, corroded, or over 15 years old — replace the whole faucet rather than patch it. A new faucet install is still an easy DIY job.
Pro tip: Take a photo of your faucet brand/model number (usually stamped on the body under the sink) before buying replacement parts — Moen, Delta, and Kohler all have brand-specific O-ring kits that fit perfectly and cost the same as generic ones.
Essential — the long-reach jaws are the only practical way to tighten or loosen mounting nuts deep under a sink. Nearly impossible to do this job without one.
Backup fix if you can't source an exact gasket today. Press a rope of putty under the faucet base to create a watertight seal. Not for use on granite/marble (stains).
The flat rubber ring that sits between the faucet base and counter. Match to your faucet brand if possible; universal versions work for most standard faucets.
For disconnecting and reconnecting supply line nuts. A 10-inch gives enough leverage without being bulky in tight cabinet spaces.
Wrap supply line threads when reassembling to prevent any slow drips at the connections. A roll lasts years.
Essential for any plumbing job. Wraps around threaded connections to prevent leaks.
The one tool you need for most plumbing repairs. Get a 10-inch.
Catches water during repairs. Also useful for mixing, cleaning, carrying parts.
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