Quick answer
A faucet that will not turn off has a worn part inside the valve: a cartridge or ceramic disc on single-handle faucets, or a washer and seat on two-handle compression faucets. Close the shutoff valves under the sink first, or the main water shutoff if those do not hold. Replacing the cartridge fixes most faucets; HomeAdvisor puts a kitchen faucet replacement, installed, at $162–$364. Call (888) 217-6781 to reach a plumbing company taking calls in your ZIP.
Follow the short menu, then your 5-digit ZIP. The line goes quiet for a few seconds while it connects; stay on. If it does not connect, call once more: companies taking calls change minute to minute.
Written & reviewed by Marcus ReedIICRC WRT
Reviewed November 3, 2026· Next review May 2027
A faucet that keeps running after the handle is closed has a worn part inside the valve: a cartridge, a ceramic disc, or a washer and seat on older compression faucets. Water will keep running until that part is replaced, so the first job is to stop it at the shutoff.
Stop the Water Now
- 1Close the shutoff valves under the sink. There is usually one for hot and one for cold. Turn them clockwise until they stop.
- 2If they will not turn or still leak, close the main water shutoff for the house, usually where the water line enters, near the water meter, or in a basement or garage.
- 3Open the faucet to relieve pressure once the water is off.
What Failed
| Faucet type | Sign | Part that usually fails |
|---|---|---|
| Single handle, cartridge | Handle spins or water will not shut off fully | Cartridge |
| Single handle, ceramic disc | Steady drip or stream with the handle closed | Disc cartridge or its seals |
| Two handles, compression | One side keeps running, handle turns past where it used to stop | Washer and valve seat |
| Tub or shower valve | Spout runs or drips with the handle off | Cartridge or stem; see bathtub faucet leaking |
| Handle turns with no effect | Stripped handle or valve stem | Handle adapter or stem |
Talk to a plumber about this
One call reaches a plumbing company taking calls in your ZIP.
Repair or Replace
A cartridge for a common brand is a part-sized repair, and it is the right fix for a faucet that is otherwise in good shape. A faucet that is corroded at the base, leaks from several points, or has a hard-to-find cartridge is often cheaper to replace. HomeAdvisor puts a kitchen faucet replacement, installed, at $162 to $364 (about $262 on average) and a bathroom faucet at $170 to $360. See faucet repair.
When to Call
Call if the shutoff valves under the sink do not hold, if the faucet runs with the main closed (it should not), or if you would rather not take the valve apart. Have the faucet brand ready; it is often printed on the base or the handle. (888) 217-6781 connects you to a plumbing company taking calls in your ZIP. Follow the short menu, enter your 5-digit ZIP and stay on while it connects; if it does not connect, call once more, because the companies taking calls change minute to minute.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What do I do if my faucet won't turn off?
Close the shutoff valves under the sink. If they do not turn or still leak, close the main water shutoff for the house, then open the faucet to relieve pressure.
Why won't my faucet shut off all the way?
The cartridge, ceramic disc, or washer and seat inside the valve has worn out. Water keeps passing it even with the handle closed.
Should I repair or replace a faucet that won't turn off?
Replacing the cartridge is the right fix for a faucet in good shape. A corroded faucet or one leaking in several places is often cheaper to replace; HomeAdvisor puts kitchen faucet replacement, installed, at $162–$364.
Sources
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Disclaimer: HearthDry is an independent educational resource. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional, legal, or insurance advice. Consult licensed professionals before making decisions about your property or insurance claims.