Why Does My Faucet Drip And When Should You Call A Plumber

A dripping faucet is more than just an annoyance—it’s a sign of inefficiency that can waste hundreds of gallons of water each year and increase your utility bills. While some leaks are simple fixes, others point to deeper plumbing issues requiring professional attention. Understanding the root cause of a drip and knowing when to act—either with a wrench or a phone call—can save time, money, and prevent long-term damage.

How Faucets Work: A Quick Overview

Faucets regulate water flow through internal components such as washers, cartridges, O-rings, and seals. When functioning properly, these parts create a watertight seal when the faucet is turned off. Over time, wear and tear, mineral buildup, or improper installation can compromise this seal, leading to drips. The type of faucet you have—compression, ball, cartridge, or ceramic disk—determines both the likely cause of the leak and the repair method.

• Compression faucets: Common in older homes; use rubber washers that degrade over time.
• Ball faucets: Found in many single-handle models; rely on a rotating ball mechanism with springs and seals.
• Cartridge faucets: Use replaceable cartridges to control flow; prone to cracking or misalignment.
• Ceramic disk faucets: Modern and durable; use ceramic disks that resist wear but can crack under pressure.

Each design has its own failure points. Identifying your faucet type is the first step toward diagnosing the issue.

Common Causes of a Dripping Faucet

Drips don’t appear without reason. Most stem from mechanical failure within the faucet assembly. Here are the most frequent culprits:

Worn-Out Washers

In compression faucets, a rubber washer presses against a valve seat to stop water flow. Repeated use causes the washer to wear thin or become misshapen, allowing water to seep through even when the faucet is closed. This is the most common cause of a slow drip from a traditional two-handle faucet.

Corroded Valve Seat

The valve seat connects the faucet to the spout. If not maintained, it can corrode due to mineral deposits from hard water. A pitted or eroded seat prevents the washer from forming a proper seal, resulting in a persistent drip. This often accompanies washer wear and should be addressed during repairs.

Damaged or Loose O-Rings

O-rings provide a seal in handle assemblies, especially in cartridge and ball faucets. Over-tightening the handle or general aging can cause O-rings to crack or loosen, leading to leaks around the base of the handle rather than the spout.

Faulty Cartridge or Internal Mechanism

In cartridge or ball-type faucets, the internal mechanism may degrade. Springs weaken, seals fail, or the cartridge itself cracks. These issues are harder to self-diagnose and often require replacement of the entire cartridge unit.

Mineral Buildup and Sediment

Hard water leaves behind calcium and lime deposits that accumulate inside faucet components. This buildup restricts water flow and interferes with sealing mechanisms. You might notice reduced water pressure alongside dripping.

Tip: Soak small faucet parts in white vinegar overnight to dissolve mineral deposits naturally.

When to Try a DIY Fix

Many faucet drips can be resolved at home with basic tools and a modest investment of time. If you're comfortable turning off water supplies and disassembling fixtures, consider tackling the repair yourself—especially if the leak is isolated to one component like a washer or O-ring.

Step-by-Step Guide to Basic Faucet Repair

1. Turn off the water supply valves under the sink. Open the faucet to release remaining pressure.
2. Plug the drain to prevent losing small parts.
<3> Remove the faucet handle using a screwdriver or Allen wrench, depending on design.
3. Disassemble the cartridge, stem, or ball mechanism carefully, noting the order of parts.
4. Inspect for worn washers, cracked O-rings, or corroded seats.
5. Replace damaged components with exact matches (take old parts to a hardware store for comparison).
6. Reassemble the faucet in reverse order and restore water supply.
7. Test for leaks and adjust as needed.

This process typically takes under an hour and costs less than $20 in replacement parts. However, success depends on accurate diagnosis and correct reassembly.

DIY Checklist Before You Start

• ✅ Shut off water supply and relieve pressure
• ✅ Gather tools: adjustable wrench, screwdrivers, pliers, replacement kit
• ✅ Identify faucet brand and model (check manufacturer label or take photos)
• ✅ Purchase correct replacement parts
• ✅ Protect sink surface with a cloth to avoid scratches

If you’re unsure about any step or encounter stripped screws, cross-threaded fittings, or broken internal components, it’s time to reconsider a DIY approach.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

While minor drips are manageable, certain signs indicate a need for expert intervention. Ignoring them can lead to water damage, mold growth, or increased repair costs.

Signs It’s Time to Call a Plumber

Symptom	What It Means	Action Required
Drip persists after DIY repair	Underlying issue not resolved or incorrect part used	Professional diagnosis needed
Leak at the base or under the sink	Pipe connection failure or seal degradation	Plumber should inspect joints and supply lines
Water stains or dampness under sink	Long-term leakage causing structural damage	Immediate inspection to prevent mold
Multiple faucets leaking simultaneously	Systemic issue like high water pressure or pipe corrosion	Whole-house evaluation recommended
Unusual noises (banging, hissing)	Water hammer or pressure regulator failure	Requires diagnostic tools and expertise

“Even a small drip can signal a larger problem. If you’ve replaced parts and the leak continues, it’s not just about the faucet—it could be your pipes, pressure, or alignment. That’s when a licensed plumber becomes essential.” — Daniel Reyes, Master Plumber with 18 years of residential experience

Real Example: The Case of the Persistent Kitchen Leak

Jamie in Portland replaced the washers in her kitchen faucet after noticing a steady drip. The leak stopped briefly, then returned worse than before. She tightened the handle, which only caused the O-ring to split. Water began pooling around the base. By the time she called a plumber, moisture had warped the cabinet floor and mildew appeared behind the wall.

The plumber discovered two issues: degraded supply line connections and excessive water pressure (85 psi, well above the recommended 60 psi). He installed a pressure-reducing valve and replaced the supply lines with braided stainless steel. The total cost was $280—double what an early service call would have been.

This case illustrates how delaying professional help can turn a $50 fix into a $300+ repair with collateral damage.

Preventing Future Leaks

Regular maintenance extends faucet life and reduces the risk of sudden failures. Prevention doesn’t require advanced skills—just consistency.

Tip: Turn faucets off gently. Forcing the handle accelerates wear on internal seals.

Here’s how to keep your fixtures in top condition:

• Inspect annually: Look for drips, wobbly handles, or mineral crust around spouts.
• Clean aerators every 6 months: Unscrew the tip of the faucet and rinse out debris.
• Flush the system: Once a year, open all faucets fully to clear sediment from lines.
• Install water softeners: In hard water areas, softeners reduce scale buildup in fixtures and appliances.
• Monitor water pressure: Use a gauge on an outdoor spigot. Ideal range: 40–60 psi.

Proactive care can extend a faucet’s lifespan from 7 to 15 years or more, depending on usage and water quality.

FAQ: Common Questions About Dripping Faucets

How much water does a dripping faucet waste?

A single drip per second wastes over 3,000 gallons per year—enough to fill a small swimming pool. At average water rates, that’s $50–$100 in unnecessary costs annually per faucet.

Can a dripping faucet cause mold?

Yes. Constant moisture under sinks creates ideal conditions for mold and mildew, especially in poorly ventilated cabinets. Left unchecked, this can affect indoor air quality and lead to health concerns.

Is it worth fixing an old faucet?

It depends. If the faucet is outdated, frequently leaking, or made with lead-containing brass, replacement may be more cost-effective than repeated repairs. Modern faucets are more efficient, easier to service, and often come with lifetime warranties.

Conclusion: Act Early, Save More

A dripping faucet is never just a drip. It’s a warning sign, a hidden expense, and a potential gateway to bigger problems. Whether you choose to fix it yourself or call a plumber, the key is prompt action. Small investments in time or money today prevent major headaches tomorrow.

Start by identifying the source of the drip. Attempt a repair if you’re confident and equipped. But if the leak persists, involves multiple fixtures, or shows signs of water damage, don’t hesitate to bring in a professional. Your home, your water bill, and your peace of mind are worth protecting.

💬 Have a faucet leak story or a successful DIY fix? Share your experience in the comments—your insight could help someone avoid a costly mistake!