Faucet Repair
A faucet that won’t stop dripping is one of the most common plumbing annoyances, and usually one of the least expensive to actually fix.
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What Usually Causes a Leaking Faucet?
Faucet repair almost always comes down to a worn internal part, a cartridge, washer, or O-ring that’s degraded enough to let water seep past the handle even when it’s fully closed. Modern faucets typically use a cartridge system, while older designs rely on a rubber washer, and knowing which type you have determines the fix. A constant drip from the spout usually points to the cartridge or washer, while a leak at the base of the faucet, around the handle itself, is more often an O-ring issue. Either way, the parts involved are inexpensive, which is why a dripping faucet is one of the most cost-effective plumbing repairs there is, as long as it’s diagnosed correctly the first time instead of guessing at parts.
That drip you’ve learned to tune out is still costing you money every single day it continues.
Signs Your Faucet Needs Repair
Faucet problems are usually easy to notice, even if they’re easy to ignore.
- A constant drip from the spout, even with the handle fully off
- Water leaking from around the base of the faucet handle
- A handle that’s become loose, stiff, or hard to turn
- Noticeably reduced water flow or a spraying, uneven stream
- Mineral buildup or corrosion visible around the fixture
What You Can Try Before Calling a Plumber
Faucet repair is one of the more approachable weekend fixes for homeowners comfortable with basic tools.
- Turn off the faucet’s local shutoff valves under the sink before starting any work
- Clean the aerator first, mineral buildup there is often mistaken for a bigger problem
- Replace the cartridge or washer, matched to your faucet’s brand and model, a common and inexpensive fix
- Check O-rings for wear if the leak is at the base rather than the spout
- If the leak persists after a part replacement, or you’re unsure of your faucet’s internal design, that’s a sign to compare quotes instead
Why Compare Quotes Instead of Calling Just One Plumber
Here’s what actually matters when a faucet won’t stop dripping:
- Matched with up to three licensed, insured plumbers who handle faucet repair and replacement
- Compare pricing before deciding between a repair and a full faucet swap
- Free to use, with zero obligation to hire anyone you're matched with
A dripping faucet rarely feels urgent, which is exactly why it tends to get ignored for months. Comparing a couple of quotes takes just a few minutes and usually confirms it’s a quick, affordable fix once it’s actually addressed.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Faucet Repair
How much does faucet repair cost?
Most faucet repairs run $100 to $250 including labor and parts, among the more affordable common plumbing fixes.
Why does my faucet keep dripping after I tighten the handle?
Tightening the handle doesn’t address a worn cartridge or washer inside, which is almost always the actual cause of a persistent drip.
Can I fix a faucet leak myself?
Many homeowners can replace a cartridge or washer with basic tools, as long as the local shutoff valves are used first and the correct replacement part is used.
When should I replace a faucet instead of repairing it?
If the faucet is old, corroded, or you’re replacing parts repeatedly without lasting results, replacement often makes more sense than continued repair.
How do I know if it's the cartridge or the O-ring?
A drip from the spout usually points to the cartridge or washer, while a leak around the base of the handle usually points to an O-ring.
Is comparing faucet repair quotes free?
Yes, there’s no cost to compare quotes through 3PlumbingQuotes and no obligation to hire anyone.