What Causes Dripping Faucets? Common Issues and Fixes

Did you know that a slow-dripping faucet can waste up to 20 gallons of water every day? And over time, that wasted water shows up on your water bills. It can also lead to wear on your sink, faucet, and plumbing system. The good news is that most faucet leaks have simple, common causes.

In this guide, we’ll explain what causes dripping faucets, how to identify the source of the problem, and how to know when you should call a professional plumber.

Types of Faucets

Before you can fix a leaky faucet, it helps to know what type you’re dealing with.

Cartridge faucets (cartridge-style faucets): These use a cartridge inside the valve body to control water flow and temperature. A damaged or old cartridge is a common source of leaks.
Compression faucets: These rely on rubber washers that rest against the valve seat. When washers wear out, dripping water often follows.
Ball faucets and disc faucets: These have multiple seals and moving parts, which can loosen or wear over time.

Knowing the faucet type makes it easier to identify which parts may be worn or loose.

Common Causes of Faucet Problems

Most faucet leaks are due to normal wear and tear, especially in high-use areas like kitchens and bathrooms. As parts age, they may no longer form a tight seal, leading to dripping water and reduced efficiency.

Identifying which of the following issues is present is the first step toward fixing a leaky faucet:

Worn-out washer: Rubber washers wear down over time, especially in compression faucets.
Faulty O-ring or worn seals: A malfunctioning O-ring around the valve stem can cause water to leak near the handle.
Deteriorated valve seat: The valve seat connects the faucet to the spout and can corrode due to mineral buildup.
Loose parts: Handle screws, stem screws, or other components can loosen with use.
Water pressure issues: High home water pressure can force water through small gaps, causing a faucet drip.

Faulty Faucet Components

Inside your sink’s faucet are several small parts working together to regulate water flow, pressure, and temperature. Washers, seals, cartridges, and valve components all play a role in preventing water from flowing when the faucet is turned off. When one of these pieces fails, even slightly, water can begin to leak through.

Here are some of the most common internal issues that can cause a faucet to start leaking.

A damaged cartridge or an old cartridge may no longer regulate flow properly.
Worn seals and faulty O-rings allow water to escape around the faucet handle or spout.
Loose parts can interrupt the seal between all the parts, causing a slow drip.
Hard water and water sediments accelerate corrosion and mineral buildup.

Replacement parts are usually available at a local hardware store, but choosing the wrong size can lead to further damage.

Valve Seat Issues

The valve seat plays a huge role in preventing leaks by creating a secure connection between the faucet and the spout. When the faucet is turned off, this component, along with washers, seals, and cartridges, stops water flow completely. Over time, however, constant exposure to water, pressure changes, and everyday use can cause the valve seat to wear down or corrode. Mineral buildup from hard water and water sediments can accelerate this process, making it difficult for the faucet to form a tight seal.

When the valve seat or surrounding components begin to fail, several issues can occur at once. A damaged or old cartridge may no longer regulate water flow properly, allowing water to slip through even when the handle is fully closed. Worn seals or faulty O-rings can let water escape around the faucet handle or spout, while loose internal parts can disrupt the fit of all the components. Any of these problems can lead to a slow drip that worsens over time if left unaddressed.

How to DIY a Leaky Faucet

Many homeowners can fix a leaky faucet with patience and the right tools, especially when the issue is something simple, such as a worn washer, a loose component, or a faulty O-ring. Basic repairs often involve shutting off the water supply, carefully disassembling the faucet, and replacing small, inexpensive parts that are readily available at a local hardware store. Taking the time to work slowly and follow proper steps can help prevent further damage and restore the faucet’s proper function.

That said, not every leak is a quick DIY fix. If the faucet continues dripping after parts are replaced, or if corrosion, damaged cartridges, or valve seat issues are discovered, professional plumbing services may be the safest and most effective solution.

What You’ll Need and How the Repair Works

For many common faucet repairs, a standard faucet repair kit from a local hardware store is all you need. These kits usually include replacement washers, O-rings, and seals designed to fit most faucet styles. Before you begin, it’s important to take a few basic steps to ensure a safe and successful repair.

To fix a dripping faucet, follow these steps:

Shut off the water supply. Locate the fixture shutoff valves beneath the sink and turn the handles clockwise until the water is completely off.
Disassemble the faucet. Remove the faucet handle to access the inner valve stem or cartridge that controls water flow.
Inspect all internal parts. Carefully remove each component and check for worn washers, faulty O-rings, damaged seals, or loose parts that may be causing the leak.
Replace worn components. Use the correct replacement parts from your faucet repair kit, making sure they are the proper size and type for your faucet.
Clean the valve seat. Pour white vinegar over the valve seat and let it soak for a few minutes to help remove mineral buildup from hard water.
Reassemble the faucet. Put all components back together in the reverse order of removal, ensuring everything fits securely.
Restore the water supply and test. Turn the water back on slowly and check the faucet for leaks to confirm the repair was successful.

If the faucet continues to drip after following these steps, the issue may be more complex and could require professional plumbing services.

Steps to Prevent A Leaking Faucet

Preventive care saves water and money. It also helps extend the life of your sink’s faucet. Small issues like worn washers, loose seals, or mineral buildup often start quietly and worsen over time if they’re ignored. By staying ahead of minor leaks and performing simple maintenance, homeowners can reduce water waste, avoid higher utility bills, and prevent small problems from turning into costly plumbing repairs.

Perform regular maintenance on faucets and handles.
Watch for slow drips or changes in water flow.
Clean mineral buildup with white vinegar, especially in hard water areas.
Address leaks early to avoid higher water bills and utility bills.

Leaky Faucet After Using Hot Water?

Sometimes a dripping faucet is a symptom of problems in the hot water system rather than the faucet itself. Because hot water causes pipes and internal components to expand, any existing weakness in seals, washers, or cartridges can become more noticeable when the hot water is turned on. This is why some homeowners only notice a faucet drip after using hot water.

Here are a few common ways hot water issues can contribute to a dripping faucet.

High pressure from hot water lines can stress seals and washers. As hot water flows through the faucet, increased pressure and heat can wear down rubber washers and O-rings more quickly, increasing the likelihood of leaks over time.
Issues with the water heater may increase dripping when hot water is used. Sediment buildup, fluctuating pressure, or temperature settings that are too high can place extra strain on plumbing fixtures, leading to water leaking at the faucet.
Fixing hot water leaks can reduce energy costs and prevent pipe damage. A dripping hot water faucet wastes both water and energy, forcing the water heater to work harder and increasing utility bills.

Hot water leaks should always be addressed quickly, as ignoring them can lead to more serious plumbing issues, higher energy costs, and premature wear on your faucet and water heater system.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Ignore a Dripping Faucet

A dripping faucet may seem like a small inconvenience, but over time, it can waste water, increase utility bills, and put unnecessary strain on your plumbing system. In many cases, the cause is something simple, like a worn washer, a faulty O-ring, or a loose internal part. Catching these issues early can make repairs easier and help prevent further damage.

If you’re comfortable tackling minor repairs, a DIY fix can often stop the drip and restore proper function. However, if the leak persists, keeps coming back, or appears to be tied to valve seat damage, high water pressure, or hot water issues, calling a professional plumber is the safest option. An experienced plumber can accurately diagnose the problem and make repairs that will protect your home's plumbing system in the long run.

Addressing a leaky faucet promptly not only saves water but also protects your home, your fixtures, and your budget.

FAQs About Dripping Faucets

What causes a leaky faucet?

Leaky faucets are usually caused by worn washers, faulty O-rings, damaged cartridges, mineral buildup, or water pressure issues.

Why is water dripping from my faucet even when it’s turned off?

A worn-out washer, deteriorated valve seat, or damaged cartridge can prevent a full seal, allowing water to drip.

Can high water pressure cause a leaking faucet?

Yes. If a home has unusually high water pressure, it can cause water to push past seals and washers, leading to leaks.

Is it safe to fix a leaky faucet myself?

Many leaks can be fixed DIY, but using the wrong replacement parts or forcing components can cause further damage.

When should I call a professional plumber?

If leaks persist, parts are difficult to access, or multiple faucets are affected, it’s best to contact an experienced plumber.