Why Does My Kitchen Faucet Drip?

A leaky faucet is more than just a nuisance; it can be a real financial drain and a waste of precious water resources. While it might not seem like much water is being wasted, each drip adds up over time. In fact, according to the United States Geological Survey, a single leaky faucet dripping once per minute can waste 34 gallons of water each year. If your kitchen faucet is dripping, you will need to find the source of this water wastage as soon as possible.


  • O-Ring

    • A possible reason for a leaky faucet is a deteriorated O-ring. This ring is placed around the faucet base to seal it in place, but through repeated use and exposure to moisture it has the tendency to become cracked and worn. This wear tends to happen frequently with lower-end faucets and hardware. Replacing the O-ring is simple for even the most novice do-it-yourselfer. Take accurate measure of your previous O-ring or the base of your faucet to ensure you select a new ring that is exactly the right size for a snug fit.

    Broken Piping

    • Another cause of a leaky faucet is broken piping. Analyze the faucet and hardware surrounding your sink, above the cabinet and from underneath. If you see any cracks in the piping or hardware, it is possible that this is the reason for your drippy faucet. Depending on the damage, this piping will need to be repaired or replaced. Temporary fixes, such as wrapping duct tape around the crack are not sufficient. This will only divert the water elsewhere, not stop the actual leak.


    • The valve steam and seat are possible locations of damage that could be causing your constant drip. To check for damage, turn off your water from under the sink. Remove your faucet piece by piece and analyze the state of the valve stem or washer seat. If you notice any grooves, cracks or corrosion, treat these problems with repair or replacement. Take your existing faucet with you to a store to ensure that you select the right replacement for your needs.


    • It is possible that corrosion is what is causing your sink to leak. Check to be sure the knobs are fully turned to the “off” position. If one knob has difficulty turning all the way to “off,” corrosion is likely preventing your faucet from stopping the flow of water completely. Soak the source of the corrosion with a calcium or lime remover overnight and wipe away build up. If this does not help your knob to turn off completely, it may need to be replaced.