Why Is Your Faucet Dripping? Here's How to Fix It Fast
Expert Plumbing Tips from Pat the Plumbinator – San Antonio’s Trusted Leak Repair Pro.
A dripping faucet isn’t just irritating—it can waste thousands of gallons of water per year, drive up your utility bills, and signal a more serious plumbing issue. Whether it’s your kitchen tap or bathroom sink, it’s time to fix the drip for good.
At The Plumbinator Plumbing Co., we’ve repaired hundreds of leaky faucets across San Antonio. This guide covers the most common causes of faucet leaks and provides instructions on how to repair them quickly.
Common Causes of a Dripping Faucet
| Cause | Description |
|---|---|
| Worn-Out Washer | Over time, the rubber washer wears down and fails to seal properly. |
| Damaged O-Ring | Often causes leaks around the handle—easy to replace. |
| Corroded Valve Seat | Mineral buildup can cause corrosion and sputum leakage. |
| Loose Parts | Screws or connections inside the faucet may come loose. |
| High Water Pressure | Causes intermittent leaks, often at night or during periods of low usage. |
How to Fix a Leaking Faucet: Step-by-Step
Tools You’ll Need:
π§ Adjustable wrench
πͺ Flat-head screwdriver
π Replacement parts (O-ring, washer, or cartridge)
π© Plumber’s tape
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
Locate the shut-off valves under the sink and turn them clockwise. Turn on the faucet to release any remaining water.
Step 2: Disassemble the Faucet
Use a screwdriver to remove the handle. Keep track of each component as you remove it.
Step 3: Inspect the Parts
Check the washer, O-ring, and valve seat. Look for wear, cracks, or mineral deposits.
Step 4: Replace the Faulty Parts
Install new washers or cartridges. Use plumber’s tape to ensure a tight seal where needed.
Step 5: Reassemble and Test
Put the faucet back together and slowly turn the water supply on. Check for leaks.
π‘ Pro Tip: Still leaking? It could be time for professional help. Schedule faucet repair with Pat the Plumbinator»
Kitchen vs. Bathroom Faucet Leaksο»Ώ
| Faucet Type | Unique Features |
|---|---|
| Kitchen Faucet | May have a pull-out sprayer or complex cartridges |
| Bathroom Faucet | Typically simpler and easier to repair |
| Compression Faucet | Common in older homes—prone to washer issues |
| Cartridge/Disk Faucet | More modern—requires cartridge replacement |
Why Fix a Faucet Leak Immediately?
- Saves water – A dripping faucet can waste over 3,000 gallons per year. EPA WaterSense backs this up.
- Reduces water bills – Small leaks add up fast.
- Prevents damage – Leaks can damage cabinets, walls, and flooring.
- Avoids mold growth – Constant moisture is a breeding ground for mold.
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Customer Success Story
Many of our customers in San Antonio report fast, same-day faucet repairs, often completed in under an hour. We’ve helped homeowners finally stop the drip that's been driving them crazy for weeks.
Why Choose Pat the Plumbinator?
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| 15+ Years of Experience | Local, licensed plumbing expert |
| Same-Day Service | No waiting—we solve your leak fast |
| Transparent Pricing | Know the cost upfront—no surprises |
| Trusted Reviews | 100s of happy homeowners across San Antonio |
Don’t Let That Drip Cost You
π’ Call to Action
π§ Still hearing that annoying drip?
Don’t let it cost you time and money. Call San Antonio’s trusted faucet repair team today.
π Request a Free Quote or Schedule a Repair
FAQs: Dripping Faucets and Faucet Repair
How do I know what type of faucet I have?
Look at the mechanism. Most faucets fall into four categories: compression, ball, cartridge, or ceramic disk.
Can I fix a leaking faucet myself?
Yes—if it’s a minor issue and you have the right tools. For more complex repairs, a plumber is recommended.
When should I replace instead of repair?
If the faucet is over 10 years old or has repeated issues, replacement may be more cost-effective.
What if my faucet still leaks after repair?
You may have pipe corrosion or water pressure issues. Call a licensed plumber to diagnose it properly.
How much does it cost to fix a faucet leak?
Typical repair costs range from $75–$200, depending on parts and labor.
Can a dripping faucet raise my water bill?
Yes! A slow drip can waste hundreds of gallons per month and raise bills significantly.