That steady drip from your kitchen or bathroom faucet is more than an annoying sound. It is wasted water, and it shows up on your bill. The good news is that most leaky faucet repair jobs are simple, and a plumber can tell you in minutes whether a fix will last or a new faucet makes more sense. Here is how to decide, including the most common causes of a dripping faucet and how modern fixtures can save you money.
Dripping Faucets At a Glance
- Worn washers and gaskets are a frequent cause of faucet leaks.
- One drip per second can waste more than 3,000 gallons of water a year.
- Repair makes sense for a newer faucet with one worn part.
- Replacement is smarter for old, corroded, or repeatedly leaking faucets.
- Water-saving faucets can cut water use by 30 percent or more.
What Causes a Dripping Faucet?
Most drips start inside the faucet, where small parts rub together every time you turn the handle. Over time, those parts wear down. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says old and worn washers and gaskets frequently cause faucet leaks.
Worn Washers, O-Rings, and Cartridges
These small rubber and plastic parts create the seal that stops water. When they crack or harden, water slips past. A drip from the spout usually points to a worn washer or cartridge, while water around the handle often means a worn O-ring.
Corrosion and Damaged Valve Seats
Metal parts inside the faucet can corrode and pit. When the valve seat is rough, even a new washer cannot make a tight seal. This is a common reason a repair does not last.
Mineral Buildup From Hard Water
Hard water leaves mineral deposits that clog parts and scratch surfaces. Buildup can cause drips, low flow, and stiff handles. Sometimes cleaning fixes it, but heavy buildup often means the faucet is near the end of its life.
How Much Water Does a Leaky Faucet Waste?
More than most people think. A faucet that drips once per second can waste more than 3,000 gallons of water per year, the EPA reports. Across a whole home, leaks can waste more than 9,300 gallons a year, and fixing easy leaks can save about 10 percent on a water bill, according to the EPA.
When Should You Repair a Leaky Faucet?
A repair is usually the right call when the problem is small and the faucet is in good shape. Choose repair if:
- The faucet is fairly new, and the finish looks good.
- A single part, such as a washer, O-ring, or cartridge, is worn.
- Replacement parts are easy to find.
- This is the first time it has leaked.
A quick repair often costs less than a new fixture.
When Is It Time to Replace a Faucet?
Sometimes a repair is just a short-term patch. Plan to replace the faucet if:
- It leaks again soon after being repaired.
- You see rust, pitting, or green or white crusty buildup.
- The handles are loose, stiff, or wobbly.
- Parts are discontinued or hard to find.
- You want a better look or a more efficient fixture.
Replacing a worn-out faucet is often cheaper than paying for repeated repairs.
Are Water-Saving Faucets Worth It?
Often, yes. Bathroom faucets with the WaterSense label use a maximum of 1.5 gallons per minute, which is 30 percent or more less than the standard 2.2 gallons per minute. The average family can save about 700 gallons of water a year, according to EPA WaterSense. Newer fixtures also bring smoother handles, better finishes, and a fresh look to a tired sink.
Can You Fix a Dripping Faucet Yourself?
Some homeowners handle a simple washer swap, but it is easy to make things worse. Always shut off the water under the sink first. If you cannot find the right part, see corrosion, or the leak returns, stop and call a pro. Rooter MD offers faucet repair and installation for kitchens, bathrooms, showers, and outdoor spigots, so you do not risk a bigger leak.
A Small Drip Is a Big Clue
A leaky faucet is easy to ignore, but it keeps costing you every day. Repair a newer faucet with one worn part, and replace an old, corroded one. Either way, fixing it sooner saves water, money, and the frustration of that constant drip.
Fix Your Faucet Today With Rooter MD
Rooter MD has been family-run since 1981 and serves the greater Detroit metro area. Call 248-888-7777 or contact us to schedule faucet repair or installation. Explore all our plumbing services too.
