Fixing a Leaky Faucet: What a Pro Checks First

A dripping faucet can waste thousands of gallons of water a year, and it's rarely as simple as "just tighten it." Here's the order a professional works through to find the real cause.

1. Identify the Faucet Type

Compression, ball, cartridge, and ceramic disk faucets each fail differently. Knowing the type narrows down the likely culprit before any tools come out.

2. Check the Washer or O-Ring

On older compression faucets, a worn rubber washer is the most common cause of drips. These are cheap to replace but need to be matched to the exact size.

3. Inspect the Cartridge

Newer faucets often use a cartridge that controls water flow and temperature. Mineral buildup or cracks here can cause both drips and inconsistent temperature.

4. Look at the Valve Seat

Corrosion on the valve seat, where the washer meets the faucet body, can cause leaks even with a brand-new washer installed.

5. Test Water Pressure

Unusually high water pressure can stress every component in a faucet, leading to repeat leaks even after a repair.

A methodical check like this usually solves the problem in one visit instead of a string of guesses.