Why Is My Faucet Dripping?

📅 August 2026 📍 Elyria, OH 📋 Fixtures

Quick Answer

A dripping faucet almost always means an internal part has worn to the point where it no longer creates a watertight seal. The specific part depends on the type of faucet: compression faucets fail at washers, cartridge faucets fail at the cartridge, ball faucets fail at O-rings and springs, and ceramic disc faucets fail at the disc or seals. Identifying the type narrows the repair immediately.

Causes by Faucet Type

Compression Faucets (Two Handles, Older Design)

Compression faucets have a stem that you turn to compress a rubber washer against a seat. Over time, the washer wears out and no longer seals tightly. The drip typically gets worse as you tighten the handle further. Replacing the washer is a well-established repair, though if the valve seat is corroded, it may also need to be resurfaced or replaced.

Cartridge Faucets (Single or Dual Handle)

Cartridge faucets use a replaceable cartridge to control flow and temperature. When the cartridge wears, it can allow water to pass through even when the handle is in the off position. Cartridges are typically faucet-specific and need to match the brand and model.

Ball Faucets (Single Handle, Rotating Ball)

Ball faucets control flow through a rotating metal or plastic ball with ports that align with supply inlets. The seals, springs, and O-rings that create a watertight fit around the ball wear over time. Repair kits are available, though the ball and other components may also need replacement.

Ceramic Disc Faucets (Single Handle, Wide Body)

Ceramic disc faucets use two ceramic discs that slide against each other to control flow. Ceramic is durable, but the seals around the disc can deteriorate, and the disc itself can crack with hard water deposits or thermal shock. Disc replacement or thorough cleaning of mineral buildup resolves most drips on this type.

Other Contributing Factors

High Water Pressure

Excessively high water pressure can force water past worn seals that would otherwise hold at normal pressure, and accelerates wear on internal components. If the pressure regulator has failed or is not set correctly, multiple faucets in the home may start dripping sooner than expected.

Hard Water and Mineral Buildup

Mineral deposits from hard water can score valve seats, coat seals, and cause cartridges to bind or leak. In areas with hard water, faucet components may need more frequent replacement, and cleaning mineral deposits before installing new parts improves longevity.

What Can Homeowners Safely Check?

Note which faucet is dripping: kitchen, bathroom sink, tub spout, or showerhead.
Note whether the drip is from the spout, from around the base, or from the handle area.
Identify the faucet type if possible (two handles, single lever, wide ceramic body).
Check the faucet brand if it is visible, as this helps with parts identification.

When Should a Plumber Handle It?

The faucet is older and parts are difficult to identify or source.
The valve seat is visibly damaged or the handle is stripped.
The leak is at the base or supply connections rather than the spout.
The drip continues after cartridge or washer replacement.
You prefer not to disassemble the faucet yourself.

Repair or Replace?

Repair is usually the right first step if the faucet body is in good condition. A faucet that has been repaired multiple times, is a discontinued model, or is part of a broader bathroom renovation may be better replaced than repaired again. A plumber can give a quick assessment on which makes more sense for your specific fixture.

How Gray's Precision Plumbing Handles Dripping Faucets

A plumber can identify the faucet type, source the correct parts, and complete the repair efficiently. If the valve seat is damaged or the faucet is beyond practical repair, a replacement recommendation will include options that fit the existing configuration so a tile or countertop modification is not required.

Northeast Ohio Considerations

Hard water throughout Lorain County and the surrounding area is a real factor in faucet longevity. If you are replacing washers or cartridges in the same faucet more than once every few years, a faucet designed for high-mineral water or a whole-house water softener may reduce the frequency of future repairs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my faucet dripping when turned off?

A faucet dripping when fully closed has a worn internal part that is no longer creating a watertight seal. On compression faucets, this is typically a washer. On cartridge faucets, it is the cartridge itself. On ball or ceramic disc faucets, it may be O-rings or the disc. Identifying the faucet type determines which part needs replacing.

How much water does a dripping faucet waste?

A faucet dripping at one drip per second wastes approximately 3,000 gallons per year. Faster drips waste proportionally more. A dripping faucet is not just a nuisance; it has a measurable impact on water bills over time.

Can high water pressure cause a faucet to drip?

Yes. Excessively high water pressure can force water past a worn seal that would otherwise hold at normal pressure, and can also accelerate wear on faucet components. If multiple faucets in the house drip intermittently, high water pressure may be a contributing factor.

Is a dripping faucet ever a sign of a bigger plumbing problem?

Occasionally. A drip that begins suddenly after a period of no issues, especially if accompanied by reduced flow or discolored water, may indicate deteriorating pipes or a pressure problem. Most drips are simply worn parts, but a plumber can confirm during a repair visit.

Should I repair or replace a dripping faucet?

If the faucet is in good overall condition and parts are readily available, repair is usually cost-effective. If the faucet is very old, corroded, or if repair parts are no longer manufactured for it, replacement with a current-model faucet is typically the more practical long-term solution.

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