That steady drip-drip-drip from your kitchen or bathroom faucet isn't just annoying, it's wasting water and money every single day. The good news is that most faucet leaks come down to a handful of common causes, and many are fixable without replacing the whole faucet.
Common Causes of Faucet Leaks
1. Worn Washers or O-Rings
In compression faucets, rubber washers wear down with use, allowing water to seep past the seal. This is one of the most common causes of a slow, steady drip.
2. Corroded Valve Seat
Sediment from your water supply can corrode the valve seat where the faucet connects to the spout, especially in areas with hard water like much of Central Florida.
3. Loose or Worn Parts
Over time, the O-rings and packing nuts that hold internal components in place can loosen or wear out, causing leaks around the base or handle.
4. High Water Pressure
Pressure that's too high for your fixtures can stress seals and connections, leading to leaks that reappear even after a repair.
Pro Tip
Note your faucet's brand and model before starting a repair. Replacement cartridges and washers are often brand-specific, and having the right part on hand saves a second trip to the hardware store.
Basic Faucet Leak Fixes: The Basics
- Turn off the water supply under the sink before starting any repair.
- Plug the drain so small parts don't fall in while you work.
- Remove the handle to access the internal cartridge, ball, or washer assembly.
- Replace the worn washer, O-ring, or cartridge with an exact match for your faucet model.
- Reassemble and turn the water back on, checking carefully for any remaining drips.
Important Safety Note
If your faucet is old, has mineral buildup fusing parts together, or the leak keeps returning after a repair, forcing components apart can crack fittings and turn a simple fix into a bigger plumbing problem.
When to Call a Professional
Some faucet leaks are quick fixes. It's worth calling a professional when:
- The leak persists after replacing washers or the cartridge
- You notice corrosion, cracks, or mineral buildup fusing parts together
- The leak is coming from inside the wall or under the cabinet, not the faucet itself
- You'd rather have it diagnosed and fixed right the first time
Tired of That Dripping Faucet?
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A dripping faucet is one of those small problems that's easy to put off, but it adds up in wasted water and can point to a bigger issue if ignored. Whether it's a quick washer swap or a full replacement, getting it fixed sooner saves you money in the long run.
Have a faucet that just won't stop dripping? We're here to help!