Why Is My Faucet Dripping? Common Causes and How to Fix It.

A dripping faucet can be a frustrating problem that wastes water and increases your utility bill. Even a slow drip can waste up to 3,000 gallons of water per year! If you’re dealing with this issue, it’s important to address it quickly before it leads to more significant plumbing problems. In this post, we’ll explore the most common causes of a leaky faucet, potential fixes, and when it’s time to replace the cartridge or even the entire faucet.

Common Causes of a Dripping Faucet

1. Worn-Out Washer
   The most common cause of a dripping faucet is a worn-out washer. Washers, which are typically made of rubber, degrade over time due to constant friction when the faucet is used. Once worn, they can no longer create a watertight seal, leading to leaks.
2. O-Ring Problems
   The O-ring is a small rubber ring that helps seal the area where the faucet handle connects to the spout. If the O-ring becomes damaged or worn, water may drip from the base of the faucet handle.
3. Corroded Valve Seat
   The valve seat is the part that connects the faucet to the spout. Over time, it can become corroded due to mineral deposits and sediment build-up from hard water. This corrosion can cause the faucet to leak near the spout.
4. Worn or Faulty Cartridge
   Many modern faucets use cartridges to control water flow, especially in single-handle faucets. Over time, these cartridges can wear out or become damaged. If the cartridge is faulty, it may need to be replaced to stop the drip.
5. Loose Parts
   Over time, internal parts of the faucet, such as screws or washers, can loosen due to regular use. This can cause water to leak from various parts of the faucet.
6. High Water Pressure
   If your faucet only drips at certain times of the day or when the handle is in a specific position, high water pressure could be the culprit. Excess pressure in the plumbing system can cause water to leak through weak seals in the faucet.

DIY Fixes for a Dripping Faucet

If you’re comfortable with DIY plumbing repairs, there are a few things you can try before calling a professional:

1. Replace the Washer
   Turn off the water supply, disassemble the faucet handle, and replace the old, worn washer with a new one. Be sure to choose a washer that matches your faucet model for a proper fit.
2. Replace the O-Ring
   If you’re seeing leaks around the handle, it may be due to a faulty O-ring. Disassemble the faucet, remove the old O-ring, and replace it with a new one. This is a relatively simple and inexpensive fix.
3. Replace the Cartridge
   If you have a cartridge faucet and it’s still dripping after replacing the washer or O-ring, the cartridge itself may be damaged. In this case, you can purchase a replacement cartridge from your local hardware store. After turning off the water supply, disassemble the faucet, remove the old cartridge, and insert the new one.

When to Replace the Faucet

Sometimes, fixing the drip may not be enough. If your faucet is old or severely corroded, it might be more cost-effective to replace the entire faucet rather than continuously repairing it. Signs that it’s time to replace your faucet include:

• Frequent Leaks: If your faucet is constantly dripping despite multiple repairs, a full replacement may be the better long-term solution.
• Visible Corrosion: Extensive corrosion on the faucet body or spout can be a sign that the faucet has reached the end of its lifespan.
• Outdated Design: If your faucet is outdated, upgrading to a newer, more efficient model can not only resolve the leak but also improve the look of your kitchen or bathroom.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

If you're unsure how to proceed with fixing a dripping faucet, or if the problem persists after attempting DIY fixes, it's time to call a professional plumber. At Bates Plumbing we offer plumbing repair services such as faucet repair, faucet replacement, and cartridge replacement services to keep your plumbing system running smoothly.

We can assess the situation and recommend whether a repair or replacement is the most cost-effective solution. Plus, with our expert service, you can avoid any further damage to your plumbing system.

Save Water and Money

A dripping faucet isn’t just an annoyance—it’s a significant waste of water and money. Fixing the problem promptly can help reduce your water bill and prevent further plumbing issues down the line. Whether you need to replace a washer, install a new cartridge, or upgrade to a new faucet, our team is here to help.

Schedule Your Faucet Repair or Replacement Today

Don’t let a dripping faucet drive you crazy. Contact us today for professional faucet repair or replacement services in your area. Our team of expert plumbers can quickly diagnose the issue and provide you with the best solution to keep your home’s plumbing in top condition.