A dripping faucet can waste a surprising amount of water over a month, and the fix is often a small internal part. Faucets come in a few families, each with its own wear points: compression, cartridge, ball and ceramic disc. Identifying yours is the first step to deciding whether a repair is simple or a replacement is smarter.
Signs you may need Faucet Repair
- A steady drip from the spout when the handle is off
- A handle that is loose, stiff or leaks at its base
- A weak or sideways stream caused by a clogged aerator
- Water that will not mix to the right temperature
- Moisture under the sink from the supply connections
What Faucet Repair covers
Repair work includes replacing cartridges, seats, springs, washers and O rings, cleaning aerators and replacing supply lines. Some brands need specific parts, so identifying the model matters. If parts are discontinued or the body is corroded, replacement is discussed.
How the process works
- 1
Identify the faucet type
Handle design and brand tell what kind of internal parts are inside and which ones are likely worn.
- 2
Shut off and open it up
Water is isolated at the stops, and the faucet is disassembled to inspect cartridges and seals.
- 3
Replace worn parts
The worn cartridge, seat or seals are swapped and the body is cleaned of mineral deposits.
- 4
Reassemble and test
Hot, cold and mixed positions are tested for flow, drips and leaks at connections.
What Denver adds to the picture
Mineral content in local water builds up inside aerators and cartridges. A faucet with a weak stream often just needs its aerator soaked and cleaned, while one that drips has usually worn a seal against those deposits.
What you can do now
Place a towel or plug in the drain before disassembling anything, because small screws and springs disappear quickly. Take photos at each step so reassembly is straightforward.
Questions about Faucet Repair
Is it worth repairing an old faucet?
If the body is sound and parts are available, yes. When parts are hard to find or the finish is failing, a new faucet may make more sense.
Why does the faucet drip only at night?
Water pressure in a neighborhood often rises when demand falls, which pushes a worn seal open. It points to a worn part, not a mystery.
