Why Is My Faucet Dripping? 6 Causes and How to Fix It

A slightly leaking faucet that drips constantly might not seem like a big deal. But in addition to being somewhat irritating, a dripping faucet can increase your water bill and damage your faucet beyond repair. This guide will explain the six main causes of a dripping faucet, how to address them, and when to call a pro.

1. Worn-Out Washer

The washer is an essential part of your faucet, providing a tight seal that prevents water from leaking out when the faucet is turned off. However, the washer can wear out quicker than the other components of your faucet—and if it does, you’ll see your faucet drip even when it’s tightly turned off. Sometimes, an incorrectly installed washer can also cause a faucet to leak.

How to Fix It

Turn off the water supply valve under the sink, then cover your drains with a drain cover, towel, or old clothing. Remove the faucet handle, packing nut, and stem to access the washer. Check for corrosion or other wear and tear and replace it with a new washer if it looks worn out. Repeat the process in reverse to put the faucet back together, then test it to ensure the dripping has stopped.

2. Loose O-Ring

An O-ring helps ensure the faucet handles stay in place. But after years of daily use, they can become loose or worn out and prevent the faucet from forming a tight seal, causing it to drip. 

How to Fix It

Replacing an O-ring uses the same process as replacing a washer. Turn off the water, cover the drains, and remove the faucet. The O-ring sits just above or below the faucet body. Check to see whether the O-ring looks corroded and replace as needed. Otherwise, try tightening the part and putting the faucet back together to see if that solves your dripping problem.

3. Valve Seat Corrosion

The valve seat on a compression faucet works with the washer to create a seal and stop leaks. But over time, it can become corroded or worn out, damaging the seal and causing the faucet to drip. You can remove some valve seats and replace them when this happens. Others require an entire faucet replacement to stop the dripping. A kitchen faucet costs around $160 to $370 to replace.

How to Fix It

Shut off the water and cover the drains. Remove the faucet handle, then the compression valve. Use a seat wrench (an L-shaped tool) to remove the valve seat. Inspect it for corrosion or debris buildup and clean out any dirt from the part. Install the replacement valve seat, then put the faucet back together and turn on the water to check that the dripping has resolved.

4. Bad Cartridge

A faucet with two handles will have a cartridge in each handle to regulate the water flow. Over time, these cartridges can wear out and lose their ability to cut off the flow when the handle is closed. 

How to Fix It

A leaking faucet cartridge needs to be replaced. To do this, turn off the water and remove each tap from the faucet to expose the cartridge. Remove the old cartridges and install the new ones, using plumber’s grease around the cartridge to help it slot in more easily. Replace the taps and test out the faucet to ensure no leak.

5. Loose Handle

Over time, heavy use can cause a bathroom or kitchen faucet handle to loosen. If you notice that the handle wobbles when you turn it on and off, a loose connection could prevent the handle from fully closing the valve, resulting in a drip.

How to Fix It

Turn off the water to your sink, then look for the screw to tighten the handles. Depending on your faucet, it might be easily visible or hidden under the decorative caps that say “hot” and “cold.” Use a screwdriver to tighten the screws, then replace the caps if needed.

6. High Water Pressure

If your faucet only drips when another fixture turns on (like a different sink or the shower), it could signal a problem with your water pressure. High water pressure not only causes your faucets to drip but can also damage your pipes, water heater, fixtures, and appliances. You may notice an increase in your water bill as well.

How to Fix It

Installing a water pressure regulator on your main water line can help prevent high water pressure in your home. This is not a DIY-friendly job, so call a pro if you suspect you have a water pressure problem.

When to Call a Pro

A handy homeowner with the right tools and confidence in their DIY skills can fix most leaky faucet problems. Learning how to replace a kitchen faucet or how to fix a leaky faucet is simple, even for those without extensive DIY experience. However, calling a pro is wise if you’re not confident in your abilities or are worried about accidentally damaging your plumbing.

A local plumbing repair professional can inspect your faucet and determine the cause of the dripping. Then, they can repair the issue or replace the faucet for you. If the best fix is to install a water pressure regulator, then hiring a pro is a must, as this isn’t a suitable job for a DIYer.