What a Dripping Faucet Really Means

A slow drip seems minor, but it can waste thousands of gallons a year and usually signals a specific worn part rather than a faucet that needs full replacement.

Compression Faucets

Older two-handle faucets often drip from a worn rubber washer that no longer seals fully against the valve seat, a straightforward and inexpensive fix.

Cartridge Faucets

Single-handle faucets typically use a cartridge that wears out over years of use; replacing it usually resolves both drips and handle stiffness.

When to Replace Instead

If the faucet body itself is corroded or the finish is failing, replacement often makes more sense than continuing to repair an aging fixture.