Why Is My Faucet Dripping? Is the sound of a dripping faucet keeping you up at night? You’re not alone. A leaky faucet is one of the most common household plumbing issues, and while it may seem minor, it can waste gallons of water and drive up your bills. That steady faucet dripping is a sign that something inside needs attention. The good news is that you can often fix it yourself without much hassle. This guide will walk you through the most frequent causes and how to stop that drip for good.
Common Reasons Your Faucet Is Dripping and Simple Fixes
A dripping faucet is usually a symptom of a worn-out component. Over time, the constant use and pressure take a toll on the small parts inside your faucet, leading to a leaky faucet. Identifying the exact source of the leak is the first step toward fixing it. Is the water coming from the spout or the handle? The location of the drip often tells you which part has failed. Let’s explore the top five reasons for a faucet drip and what you can do about them.
1. Worn-Out Washers or O-Rings
This is the #1 culprit, especially in compression faucets. Over time, rubber washers and O-rings wear down, crack, or lose their shape, allowing water to slip through even when the tap is off.
2. Corroded Valve Seats
The valve seat connects the faucet to the spout. Mineral deposits and corrosion can wear this part down over time, especially if you have hard water — very common in older homes or homes without filtration.
3. High Water Pressure
If the faucet only drips at certain times of day (like late at night when demand is low), high pressure could be the issue. This may also explain intermittent leaks or faucets that seem to “pulse” water.
4. Loose or Damaged Plumbing Components
Over time, nuts, bolts, and seals inside your faucet or pipes can come loose or degrade. A small misalignment can lead to persistent dripping, often overlooked by DIY repairs.
5. Cartridge Failure (in Modern Faucets)
In cartridge-based faucets (common in newer bathrooms and kitchens), the internal cartridge controls the flow of hot and cold water. When it wears out, leaks follow — often at the handle.
Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing a Dripping Faucet
Ready to tackle that dripping faucet yourself? This step-by-step guide will walk you through the basic process of fixing a leaking faucet. From preparing your workspace to putting everything back together, we’ve got you covered.
Step 1: Identify Your Faucet Type
There are four main types of faucets:
- Compression – Uses rubber washers; two handles for hot and cold.
- Cartridge – Smooth handle motion; common in modern fixtures.
- Ball – Found in some kitchen faucets; has a rotating ball inside.
- Ceramic Disk – Durable, with wide cylindrical handles.
🧠 Tip: Knowing your faucet type will help you identify which parts may need replacing.
Step 2: Remove the Faucet Handle(s)
- Use a flathead screwdriver to pop off the decorative cap (if present).
- Unscrew the handle using a screwdriver or Allen wrench.
- Gently lift the handle off to expose the internal parts.
Step 3: Inspect the Internal Parts
Depending on the faucet type, you may see:
- A rubber washer or O-ring (compression)
- A cartridge (cartridge faucet)
- A ball assembly (ball faucet)
- Seals and ceramic disks (disk faucet)
Look for:
- Cracks or wear
- Mineral buildup
- Loose or misaligned parts
🧠 If parts are dirty but not damaged, try cleaning them with vinegar and a soft brush.
Step 4: Replace the Worn Component
- Take the damaged part to a hardware store to match it precisely.
- Replace rubber washers, cartridges, or seals as needed.
- Apply plumber’s grease to moving parts before reassembly.
Step 5: Reassemble and Test
- Carefully reassemble all parts in reverse order.
- Turn the water back on slowly.
- Turn on the faucet and check for leaks.
✅ Still dripping? It could be due to high water pressure, valve seat corrosion, or a deeper plumbing issue.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore That Drip
Besides the mental irritation, a dripping faucet can cause:
- Hundreds of gallons of wasted water per year
- Higher utility bills (especially if it’s hot water)
- Mold or mildew growth under sinks
- Water damage to cabinets or countertops
- Increased wear on plumbing fixtures and pipes
Think of it this way: a faucet that drips once per second can waste over 3,000 gallons of water in a year — enough to take more than 180 showers.
DIY vs. When to Call a Plumber
You can replace a washer or tighten a handle on your own, but if the leak:
- Comes from under the sink
- Returns after a quick fix
- Affects multiple faucets or fixtures
- Seems tied to fluctuating water pressure
…it’s time to call in a pro.
Not all plumbing issues are surface-level. That drip might be a sign of pressure imbalance, mineral buildup, or even early pipe corrosion.
Conclusion
Why Is My Faucet Dripping? A dripping faucet can be more than just an annoyance; it can lead to increased water bills and potential damage to your home. Understanding the common causes, such as worn-out washers or high water pressure, is essential for effective repairs. By following our step-by-step guide, you can address these issues confidently and restore peace in your home. Remember, regular maintenance is key to preventing future leaks.
For a full breakdown of plumbing care, check out our Ultimate Guide to Plumbing Services for Homeowners. And if that drip turns into more, don’t miss The Dangers of Ignoring a Leaking Pipe in Your Home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a slightly dripping faucet a serious issue or can I wait to fix it?
You should fix a slightly dripping faucet as soon as possible. Even a small leak wastes a surprising amount of water over time, leading to higher bills and unnecessary water waste. A leaky faucet is a sign of a problem that will only get worse, so addressing it early is always best.
Can a dripping faucet really increase my water bill?
Absolutely. A faucet dripping at just one drip per second can waste over 3,000 gallons of water per year. This can lead to a significant increase in your water bill, costing you money for water you never even used. Fixing faucet leaks is a great way to save money.
Should I call a plumber for a leaking faucet or attempt a DIY repair?
Simple repairs like replacing a washer or O-ring are great DIY projects. However, if the faucet leaking continues after your repair, if parts are corroded, or if you’re unsure about the cause, it’s best to call a licensed plumber to avoid causing more damage to your plumbing.
Trust the Team That Fixes It Right the First Time!
While some faucet leaks are easy DIY fixes, others require a professional. If the drip persists, parts are corroded, or you’re unsure about the repair, call a licensed plumber. Our experienced team at Oasis Plumbers can quickly diagnose and resolve leaks—preventing water damage and high bills. Contact us today to schedule service and eliminate your faucet drip for good.