Why Is My Faucet Dripping? (Knoxville Homeowner Guide)
That steady drip… drip… drip isn’t just annoying.
It’s your faucet telling you something is wearing out—and it won’t fix itself.
Even a small drip can waste hundreds to thousands of gallons of water a year, which means higher water bills and unnecessary strain on your plumbing.
Let’s break down what’s actually causing it.
Most Common Causes of a Dripping Faucet
1. Worn-Out Washer or Gasket
This is the most common issue.
Over time, the washer inside your faucet:
Gets compressed
Wears down
Stops sealing properly
That’s what allows water to keep dripping.
2. Damaged O-Ring
The O-ring helps seal parts inside the faucet handle.
When it wears out, you may notice:
Dripping near the handle
Small leaks when the faucet is on
3. Corroded Valve Seat
The valve seat connects the faucet to the spout.
If it corrodes:
Water won’t seal correctly
Drips can develop over time
This is more common in older fixtures.
4. Loose or Worn Internal Parts
Faucets have multiple internal components that can loosen or degrade.
When they do, the seal breaks—and the drip starts.
5. Age of the Faucet
Older faucets naturally wear down.
If you’re dealing with repeated leaks, it may be more cost-effective to replace the fixture entirely.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore a Dripping Faucet
It may seem small—but it can lead to:
Higher water bills
Wasted water
Mineral buildup
Mold or moisture issues over time
👉 Small leaks are often early warning signs of bigger problems.
Can You Fix a Dripping Faucet Yourself?
Sometimes, yes.
If you’re comfortable, you can:
Replace a washer
Swap out a cartridge
Tighten loose parts
But if you’re unsure what type of faucet you have—or the leak keeps coming back—it’s best to have it looked at properly.
When to Call a Plumber
You should call a professional if:
The drip doesn’t stop after a repair
The faucet is older or corroded
Water is leaking from multiple areas
You’re unsure what part is failing
Fixing the root issue the first time prevents repeat problems.
Need Faucet Repair in Knoxville, TN?
Friendly Neighborhood Plumber can quickly diagnose and fix dripping faucets—so you’re not wasting water or money.
Call or text 865-443-7617
Visit 865FNP.com
Faucet Leak Questions Knoxville Homeowners Ask
How much water does a dripping faucet waste?
A slow drip can waste hundreds to thousands of gallons per year.
Is a dripping faucet a big problem?
It can be. Over time, it increases water bills and can lead to larger plumbing issues.
What’s the most common cause of a faucet leak?
A worn-out washer or cartridge is the most frequent cause.
Should I repair or replace my faucet?
If the faucet is older or leaking repeatedly, replacement may be the better option.
Who fixes leaking faucets in Knoxville, TN?
Friendly Neighborhood Plumber provides faucet repair and replacement throughout Knoxville and surrounding areas.
