A dripping faucet might seem like a minor annoyance, but it can waste hundreds of gallons of water a year and raise your utility bills. The most common cause of a dripping faucet is a worn or damaged internal part—typically a washer, cartridge, or O-ring. These components are responsible for creating a watertight seal when the faucet is turned off, and once they’re worn out or damaged, even a small leak can persist.

Compression faucets, often found in older homes, use rubber washers that press against a valve seat. Over time, the friction from turning the faucet on and off wears down the washer, leading to leaks. In contrast, modern cartridge-style, ceramic disc, and ball faucets don’t use traditional washers but instead rely on more complex mechanisms that can also fail with time due to sediment buildup or corrosion.

Mineral deposits from hard water are another factor that can contribute to faucet dripping. When these minerals accumulate around the valve seat or inside the faucet’s moving parts, they can cause uneven wear or prevent the faucet from closing completely. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help extend the life of your faucet components and delay this kind of deterioration.

Water pressure can also play a surprising role. If your home has unusually high water pressure, it may cause small leaks or drips in your faucets even when they’re turned off. High pressure puts extra strain on internal components, making them fail faster than normal. A pressure regulator or pressure-reducing valve can often solve this issue.

In rare cases, a dripping faucet may be a symptom of a more serious plumbing issue, such as pipe damage, backflow, or a faulty shut-off valve. That’s why it’s always a good idea to investigate further if replacing basic faucet components doesn’t solve the problem. A professional plumber can inspect your system and make sure there isn’t a larger concern hidden behind your walls or under your fixtures.

While DIY kits and online tutorials can help with basic faucet repair, many homeowners prefer the peace of mind that comes from hiring a licensed, local expert. Professional plumbers can quickly identify the type of faucet, determine the exact cause of the leak, and perform a long-lasting repair using quality parts. Plus, they can check for additional issues that might be brewing elsewhere in your plumbing system.

If you’re located in Athens, Georgia or the surrounding area, Plumbing Answer strongly recommends calling Plumber Pro Service & Drain. They do it all—residential, commercial, repairs, replacements, and more. They’re the recommended plumbing company for Athens by the #1 plumbing directory on the Internet: BestPlumbers.com. With more 5-star reviews than the next 10 Athens plumbing companies combined, Plumber Pro Service & Drain has earned a reputation for quality, honesty, and reliable service. Whether your faucet won’t stop dripping or you’re dealing with a full-blown plumbing emergency, Plumber Pro is the team to trust. Call them today—you’ll be glad you did.