Why Is My Faucet Dripping and How Do I Stop It?

A dripping faucet might seem like a small nuisance, but it can waste gallons of water and signal deeper plumbing problems. Whether it’s a slow, rhythmic drip or a steady trickle, understanding the reasons behind it and how to fix it can save you time, money, and frustration. In this guide, we’ll explore common dripping faucet causes, how to troubleshoot them, and what you can do to stop the leak for good.

The Hidden Cost of a Dripping Faucet

A single faucet dripping once per second can waste more than 3,000 gallons of water each year. That’s the equivalent of 180 showers or an entire month’s water bill for many households. Beyond the financial cost, wasted water also has an environmental impact, especially in areas experiencing drought or water shortages. Fixing a dripping faucet isn’t just about comfort—it’s about conservation and responsible home maintenance.

Understanding How a Faucet Works

Before tackling a leak, it helps to understand how your faucet functions. Most faucets have several core components that control water flow: the handle, the valve seat, the cartridge or stem, washers or seals, and the aerator. When you turn the handle, it lifts or rotates the stem, allowing water to flow through the valve seat and out of the spout. A proper seal inside the faucet prevents water from leaking when the handle is off. Over time, those seals, washers, or internal parts can wear down, creating small gaps that lead to drips.

The Most Common Dripping Faucet Causes

Knowing what’s behind a leak is the first step in fixing it. Below are the most frequent dripping faucet causes and how each contributes to that persistent drip.

1. Worn Out Washer or O-Ring

This is the most common cause of a dripping faucet, especially in compression faucets that use rubber washers to create a seal. Every time you turn the faucet on and off, friction occurs. Over months or years, this friction wears out the washer or causes it to loosen. Once that happens, water can slip past the seal, leading to a steady drip. Similarly, O-rings (small rubber rings used to seal connections) can deteriorate or crack, especially if they’re exposed to mineral-heavy water. Replacing washers and O-rings is typically a quick, low-cost fix.

2. Corroded Valve Seat

The valve seat connects the faucet to the spout and controls the flow of water. Over time, sediment and mineral deposits from hard water can corrode or wear away the valve seat. This corrosion prevents a watertight seal and often leads to leaks around the spout area. Regular cleaning or professional descaling can prevent this issue before it becomes severe.

3. Loose or Damaged Parts

Faucets consist of multiple small components that can become loose over time, especially with frequent use. If you notice water leaking from the base or handle, the culprit might be a loose nut, screw, or stem assembly. Tightening these components with the proper wrench or screwdriver often stops the leak. However, if parts are stripped or cracked, they’ll need to be replaced to restore a proper seal.

4. Worn Cartridge

Cartridge faucets rely on a movable cartridge that controls water flow and temperature. A damaged or worn cartridge can lead to inconsistent water pressure or dripping even when the handle is off. If your faucet has two handles—one for hot and one for cold—you may need to replace one or both cartridges. It’s important to match the replacement cartridge to your specific faucet model to ensure a proper fit.

5. High Water Pressure

Sometimes, a dripping faucet isn’t caused by damage but by excessive water pressure in your home’s plumbing system. High pressure can prevent water from flowing properly through the pipes and cause it to back up at weak points, such as faucet seals. This often results in intermittent dripping or water leaking during specific times of day. A plumber can test your home’s water pressure and install a pressure regulator if necessary.

6. Damaged Plumbing Connections

If you’ve ruled out internal faucet issues, the leak may stem from the supply lines or connections beneath your sink. Loose fittings, worn-out gaskets, or damaged pipes can cause leaks that travel up and appear as drips from the faucet. Inspecting under the sink for moisture, puddles, or corrosion can help you identify whether the problem is deeper in the plumbing.

How to Diagnose the Problem

Before making repairs, you’ll want to pinpoint where the leak is coming from. Follow these simple steps:

1. Turn off the water supply. Locate the shut-off valves under the sink and close them by turning clockwise.
2. Dry the area completely. Use a towel to remove any moisture from the faucet and surrounding surfaces.
3. Observe the leak’s origin. Watch carefully to see whether the water drips from the spout, handle, or base.
4. Disassemble the faucet. Use the appropriate tools—such as an adjustable wrench or Allen key—to gently remove the handle and access internal parts.
5. Inspect for wear or corrosion. Look for cracked washers, discolored valve seats, or loose O-rings.

Documenting what you find can help you match replacement parts at a hardware store or explain the issue to a plumber.

DIY Fixes for a Dripping Faucet

If you’re handy and the problem seems minor, you may be able to fix it yourself. Here’s a step-by-step guide for a simple repair:

1. Shut off the water supply and plug the drain to prevent losing small parts.
2. Disassemble the faucet carefully, noting the order of each component.
3. Inspect and replace washers or O-rings if they appear cracked, flattened, or worn.
4. Clean all parts with white vinegar or a mild cleaning solution to remove mineral buildup.
5. Reassemble and test the faucet by slowly turning the water supply back on.
6. Check for leaks and tighten any loose connections if needed.

If your faucet still drips after these steps, it might be time to replace the cartridge or call a professional.

When to Call a Plumber

Some faucet problems go beyond a simple DIY fix. Here are a few signs you should bring in a professional plumber:

• You’ve replaced washers and seals but the leak persists.
• The faucet leaks even when fully off.
• You notice corrosion, rust, or damaged plumbing under the sink.
• The water pressure fluctuates unpredictably.
• You’re not comfortable disassembling the faucet.

A plumber can diagnose whether the issue lies in the faucet or your home’s plumbing system and recommend a lasting solution.

Preventing Future Faucet Leaks

Once your faucet is fixed, a few simple habits can help prevent future leaks:

• Avoid over-tightening the handle. Turning the handle too forcefully can wear down washers faster.
• Clean aerators regularly. Mineral deposits can restrict water flow and increase internal pressure.
• Check water pressure annually. Ideal household pressure is between 40 and 60 psi.
• Schedule routine plumbing maintenance. A professional inspection every couple of years can catch small problems early.
• Install water softeners if you live in a hard water area to reduce mineral buildup.

A proactive approach can extend the lifespan of your faucet and save you from future headaches.

Choosing the Right Replacement Faucet

If your faucet is old, corroded, or leaking beyond repair, replacement might be the most cost-effective solution. When selecting a new faucet, consider:

• Material: Brass and stainless steel last longer than cheaper plastic models.
• Type: Cartridge, ball, or ceramic disk faucets tend to require less maintenance than traditional compression types.
• Water efficiency: Look for models with the WaterSense label, which can reduce water usage by up to 30%.
• Style and finish: Choose a design that matches your kitchen or bathroom while offering durable finishes like brushed nickel or chrome.

A quality faucet can serve your home for decades with minimal maintenance.

Final Thoughts

A dripping faucet may not seem urgent, but it’s a sign your plumbing system needs attention. Whether it’s a worn washer, corroded valve seat, or high water pressure, understanding the most common dripping faucet causes empowers you to take action quickly. Addressing the problem early prevents wasted water, reduces utility costs, and protects your home from potential water damage. If a DIY fix doesn’t do the trick, don’t hesitate to call a professional. With the right approach, you can stop the drip and enjoy a fully functional, efficient faucet once again.