Hearing a steady drip from your faucet can be more than just an annoyance—it often signals an underlying plumbing issue. While it might seem minor initially, a dripping faucet can waste hundreds of gallons of water over time, raising utility bills and potentially damaging surrounding fixtures.
As a homeowner, asking “Why is my faucet dripping?” is the first step toward preventing unnecessary water waste and costly repairs. Understanding the common causes of faucet leaks allows you to address them before they become bigger issues. Let’s explore why your faucet might be dripping and how to fix it effectively.
One of the most frequent causes of faucet leaks is a worn-out washer. Every time you turn the faucet on or off, the washer presses against the valve seat, creating friction that wears it down over time. As the washer deteriorates, it no longer forms a tight seal, allowing water to seep through and drip from the spout. Homeowners often ask, “Why is my faucet dripping?” when the solution may be as simple as a washer replacement.
Ignoring this small part can cause bigger issues over time. A damaged washer leads to continuous dripping and can contribute to noisy pipes or uneven water flow. While it’s a minor component, its role is vital in maintaining your faucet’s proper function. Periodically checking your washers can save you money and headaches down the road.
Replacing a washer is one of the more straightforward plumbing fixes. However, identifying the right size and style for your faucet is essential for success. Washers vary based on faucet design and manufacturer, and using the wrong one can cause the problem to persist. Always shut off the water supply before attempting any internal faucet repair.
Turn off the water supply under the sink and plug the drain to prevent the loss of small parts. Disassemble the faucet handle to access the washer and inspect it for signs of wear, such as cracks or flattened edges. Take the old washer to a hardware store to ensure you purchase an exact match. Replace the washer, reassemble the faucet, and turn the water back on to test for leaks.
The valve seat is the connection between the faucet and the spout, and it plays a crucial role in preventing leaks. Over time, minerals and sediment from water can build up around the valve seat, leading to corrosion. That corrosion eventually disrupts the seal and creates a path for water to leak through. If you’ve asked yourself, “Why is my faucet dripping?” after replacing the washer, the valve seat might be to blame.
Corroded valve seats are commonplace in homes with hard water. Without regular maintenance or cleaning, buildup accelerates and weakens the surrounding metal. The problem often starts subtly but can worsen and cause leaks at the base of the spout. Left unchecked, corrosion may even damage other parts of the faucet.
A worn valve seat affects faucet performance, water pressure, and cleanliness. It’s a hidden issue that can escalate if not correctly diagnosed. Catching corrosion early makes the repair much simpler and less expensive.
Use a valve seat wrench to remove the valve seat from the faucet assembly. Inspect the seat for rust, pitting, or mineral buildup. If it’s corroded, replace it with a new one of the same size and threading. Consider installing a water softener to help prevent future corrosion in hard water homes.
O-rings are small rubber gaskets that help create watertight seals in various parts of your faucet. In many faucet designs, the O-ring helps secure the handle and prevents water from leaking near the base. Over time, repeated use causes the O-ring to degrade, crack, or shift out of place. If you're wondering, “Why is my faucet dripping near the base, A faulty O-ring is a likely cause.
The problem is widespread in cartridge and ball-style faucets. A leaking handle can make the sink area constantly wet, leading to water stains, mold, or wood damage under the sink. Replacing the O-ring often resolves these types of leaks quickly. It's a minor part with a significant impact.
Many homeowners overlook the O-ring when inspecting their faucets. It’s not as visible as the washer, but its condition plays a key role in faucet integrity. If your handle feels loose or if water is dripping from areas other than the spout, it’s worth checking the O-ring.
Turn off the water supply and remove the faucet handle using a screwdriver or Allen wrench. Locate the O-ring and check for cracks, brittleness, or misalignment. Replace the O-ring with one that matches in size and material. Reassemble the faucet and test to confirm the leak has been eliminated.
Cartridge faucets use a movable plastic or brass cartridge to control water flow and temperature. Over time, the cartridge can wear out, especially in homes with high water pressure or sediment-laden water. The cartridge could be compromised if water is dripping from the spout even when the faucet is turned off. It’s a standard answer when homeowners ask, “Why is my faucet dripping?” in modern fixtures.
Cartridges are durable but not invincible. Mineral deposits or worn seals within the cartridge can allow water to leak around the edges. In some cases, the cartridge may also get stuck, making it difficult to operate the handle smoothly. Diagnosing the cartridge as the cause can require disassembly and visual inspection.
Replacing a damaged cartridge is typically easier than rebuilding an entire faucet. Most manufacturers provide replacement cartridges specific to their models, simplifying the repair. Identifying the brand and model is the key to a successful cartridge swap.
Shut off the water supply and remove the handle and retaining clip. Slide the cartridge out and inspect it for buildup or cracks. Bring the old cartridge to a plumbing supplier to find an exact replacement. Install the new cartridge, reassemble the faucet, and test for proper flow and leak resolution.
In some cases, the faucet itself isn’t the issue—high water pressure can cause leaks at weak points. Consistently high water pressure puts stress on all your plumbing fixtures, wearing out washers, O-rings, and cartridges more quickly. It can also cause sudden spurts of water or small, persistent leaks. If you've ruled out other causes and still ask, “Why is my faucet dripping?” consider checking your water pressure.
Excessive pressure can shorten the lifespan of faucets and other appliances like dishwashers and water heaters. Homeowners in areas with municipal water supplies are more likely to experience pressure that exceeds recommended levels. When other appliances are used, you might also notice banging noises in pipes or pressure surges. Managing water pressure is essential for the overall health of your plumbing.
Even moderate increases in pressure over time can weaken seals and joints. Installing a pressure-reducing valve (PRV) can protect your fixtures and plumbing system. Testing your home’s pressure is a quick and affordable step toward identifying this hidden problem.
Attach a water pressure gauge to an outdoor spigot or laundry connection. Read the pressure—anything over 80 psi is considered too high for residential systems. If necessary, install a PRV near your main water supply line. Adjust the pressure to a safer level (between 50 and 70 psi) to help extend the life of your faucets.
A dripping faucet isn’t just an irritating sound—it’s a sign that your plumbing needs attention. Whether it’s a worn washer, a corroded valve seat, or a faulty cartridge, each part of your faucet plays a role in its functionality. Addressing these problems promptly prevents water waste and costly future damage.
If you’re still asking, “Why is my faucet dripping?” after trying these fixes, it might be time for a professional inspection. Good Guys Plumbing is here to help with expert faucet repair, replacements, and full-service plumbing support. Contact us today to schedule your service and stop that drip for good.