Leaky Faucet Repair: Stop the Drip With a Local Pro
A leaky faucet is usually caused by a worn washer, O-ring, seat or cartridge. A local pro can find the part that failed and replace it, often in one visit. Call (888) 554-0426 and we connect you with an independent contractor near you.
Why is my faucet leaking?
A faucet leaks when a part inside it wears out or comes loose. The most common causes are a worn rubber washer, a cracked O-ring, a damaged valve seat, or a failing cartridge. Mineral buildup can also keep the faucet from sealing. Where the water shows up tells you which part to check.
Every faucet has parts that press together to stop the flow. Over time, rubber gets hard, metal gets pitted and screws loosen. When that happens, water slips past the seal. That is a drip.
| Where the water shows up | Likely cause |
|---|---|
| Drips from the spout when the faucet is off | Worn washer, damaged seat or failing cartridge |
| Water around the handle | Worn O-ring, loose packing nut or loose handle screw |
| Water at the base of the faucet | Worn spout O-rings or loose body parts |
| Water under the sink | Loose supply line, bad connection or leaking shut-off valve |
| Drip only when hot or cold is on | The washer or cartridge on that side is worn |
What are the signs of a leaky faucet?
The main sign is a drip you can hear or see after the faucet is turned off. Other signs include puddles near the base, stains in the sink, a handle that feels loose or stiff, and a higher water bill. Under-sink leaks can stay hidden, so check there too.
- A steady drip from the spout, day or night.
- Water around the handle or at the base when you run the faucet.
- Rust or mineral rings in the sink under the drip.
- A damp cabinet or musty smell under the sink.
- A higher water bill with no change in how you use water.
- A handle that wobbles, sticks or needs more force than before.
A single drop at a time seems small. Over days and weeks it adds up, and a hidden leak under the sink can soften the cabinet floor and lead to mold. If you see signs, do not wait for a bigger leak.
What does a pro do to fix a leaky faucet?
A pro shuts off the water, finds out what type of faucet you have, and takes it apart. They check each part, replace the worn ones, clean off buildup, then put it back together and test it. Many leaks can be fixed in one visit if the part is on hand.
- Shut off the water at the valves under the sink or at the main valve.
- Identify the faucet type: compression, cartridge, ball or ceramic disk.
- Take the faucet apart and check washers, O-rings, seats and the cartridge.
- Replace the worn parts and clean mineral buildup from the valve area.
- Reassemble and test with hot and cold water, then check under the sink for drips.
If the faucet is very old, parts may be hard to find. In that case a pro may suggest faucet replacement instead. Ask for both prices so you can compare.
Can I fix a leaky faucet myself?
Often yes, for a simple drip. You need to shut off the water, take the faucet apart, and match the right part. Call a pro if the faucet is old, the shut-off valves are stuck, the leak is in a wall, or you are not sure which part failed.
You may be able to DIY when
- The leak is a simple drip from the spout.
- The shut-off valves turn easily.
- You know the faucet brand and model.
- You have the right tools and a repair kit.
Call a pro when
- The faucet is old or the finish is worn.
- The valves are stuck or leaking.
- Water is leaking inside a wall or ceiling.
- You tried a fix and the leak came back.
Before you start any repair: Shut off the water. Plug the drain so small parts do not fall in. Take photos as you take the faucet apart. If anything seems stuck, stop and call a pro.
How much does leaky faucet repair cost?
A pro repair for a leaky faucet typically costs about $150 to $350. That is a typical range, and it varies by area and job. Parts are often low cost. Labor, access and the faucet type drive most of the price. Ask for the full price before work starts.
What affects the price?
- The part: a washer or O-ring costs less than a full cartridge.
- The faucet: older or rare faucets can need special parts.
- Access: tight spaces take more time.
- Where you live: labor rates change by city.
- When you call: nights and weekends can cost more.
Parts alone are often cheap. Many repair kits from home stores cost a small amount, so most of a pro bill is labor and the service call.
Should I repair or replace a leaking faucet?
Repair a leaking faucet if it is fairly new and parts are easy to find. Replace it if it is old, corroded, or has leaked again after a repair. A pro can price both options. Replacing can cost more now, but it may save repeat visits.
Think about age, finish and parts. A faucet in good shape with a bad washer is a good repair job. A pitted, stained faucet that has been fixed before may be better to replace. Read more about faucet replacement.
How do I pick a pro for a leaky faucet?
Ask if the contractor carries common parts, what the price includes, and what the warranty covers. Ask for their license number and proof of insurance and check them yourself. You are responsible for confirming the license and insurance required for the work.
- Ask if the price includes parts, labor and any service fee.
- Ask if they carry common repair parts on the truck.
- Ask how long the repair should take.
- Ask what the warranty covers and for how long.
- Ask for a license number and proof of insurance, then check them.
What other faucet repair services can we connect you with?
Faucet problems often come in pairs. These pages cover related repairs.
Leaky Faucet Repair questions, answered
How long does a leaky faucet repair take?
Many simple leaks take about an hour or less once the pro has the right part. Older faucets, stuck valves, or parts that must be ordered can take longer. Ask your contractor for a time window before they start.
Why does my faucet drip after I turn it off?
A drip after shut-off usually means a worn washer, seat or cartridge is no longer sealing. Mineral buildup can cause the same problem. The fix is to replace the worn part or clean the valve area.
Is a dripping faucet an emergency?
A slow drip is not usually an emergency, but you should fix it soon. If water will not stop, is spraying, or is soaking a wall or floor, shut off the water and treat it as urgent.
Why is my faucet leaking at the base?
Water at the base often means a worn O-ring or a loose part where the spout meets the body. It can also come from a loose mounting nut. A pro can replace the O-rings or tighten the parts.
Does a dripping faucet waste a lot of water?
A dripping faucet wastes water all day and night. A single drop is small, but it adds up over weeks and months and can raise your water bill. Fixing the drip early saves water and money.
Do I need to buy parts before the pro comes?
No. Let the contractor choose the parts. Faucets differ by brand and type, and the wrong part wastes time. A photo of the faucet and any brand name on it can help the pro bring the right part.
Ready to get this fixed?
Call now and get connected with a local faucet repair pro. Free for homeowners.