How do I fix a dripping faucet?

Whether you’re in Tempe or Tolleson, that rhythmic drip from the kitchen sink is more than just annoying—it’s costly. A single dripping faucet can waste over 3,000 gallons of water per year, according to the EPA. In hard water zones like Phoenix, that drip may also signal corrosion or scaling that could lead to bigger problems fast.

If you’re tempted to grab a wrench and fix it yourself, pause. While a dripping faucet seems simple, there’s more going on beneath the surface. Here’s how to diagnose the problem safely—and why calling a pro can save you time, money, and risk.

Why Faucets Drip in Arizona Homes

Faucet leaks are often caused by internal wear, but Arizona’s hard water accelerates that process. Here’s what typically causes drips:

Worn-out washers or cartridges – These parts degrade over time, especially with mineral exposure.
Loose or corroded valve seats – Hard water causes scaling at the connection between the faucet and spout.
O-ring damage – This small rubber ring keeps the faucet sealed. Heat and friction wear it down.
Improper water pressure – Excessive PSI can stress seals and valves, especially in older homes.

In the Phoenix metro, hard water scaling and sediment buildup make these issues even more common—and a minor drip today can become a steady leak tomorrow.

Step-by-Step: Safe Faucet Leak Diagnostics

If you want to assess the situation before calling a plumber, here are a few safe, no-tool checks:

1. Check Where the Drip Is Coming From

Spout drip? Likely a worn cartridge or valve seat.
Base of handle? O-ring or packing nut may be failing.
Under the sink? Shutoff valve or supply line issue.

2. Feel for Resistance

If the faucet handle feels loose or overly tight, the internal cartridge may be corroded or jammed.

3. Look for Stains or Corrosion

White scale buildup, greenish staining, or rust near the handle base indicates long-term mineral exposure and internal wear.

Why DIY Faucet Repairs Often Fail

It seems easy enough: buy a replacement part and follow a YouTube tutorial. But here’s what most homeowners run into:

❌ Part mismatch – Faucets have dozens of cartridge types that look similar. A wrong match can cause worse leaks.
❌ Over-tightening – Common mistake that cracks fittings or strips threads.
❌ Hidden corrosion – You might fix the drip but miss the bigger issue: a failing shutoff valve or pipe joint.
❌ Water shutoff risk – If old valves fail when turned off, you could be stuck without water—or cause a flood.

Plus, some leaks stem from pressure issues, not the faucet itself. We’ve seen homeowners replace working fixtures, only to find the real culprit was a pressure regulator or pipe scale.

What a Professional Repair Includes

When Rapid Rooter handles a dripping faucet, we go beyond just replacing a part. Our service includes:

Full fixture inspection
Water pressure testing
Proper part matching and replacement
Valve seat cleaning and descaling
Supply line checks for hidden leaks
Fixture upgrade options, if desired

Most faucet repairs are completed in under 90 minutes and start at $125, depending on the fixture type and condition. We use manufacturer-grade parts and always test the system under full pressure before we leave.

Don’t Let a Drip Become a Drain on Your Budget

In Phoenix, where water is precious and utility rates are rising, every drop matters. A slow drip doesn’t just waste water—it wears down pipes, encourages mold, and increases your water bill month after month.

If your faucet is dripping, wiggling, or showing signs of mineral scale, don’t wait. Rapid Rooter offers same-week appointments across Mesa, Chandler, Scottsdale, and more—with fully licensed techs who get it fixed right the first time.

FAQ: Dripping Faucets in Phoenix Homes

Q: How much water does a dripping faucet waste?
A: One drip per second can waste over 3,000 gallons a year—costing you hundreds over time.

Q: Can hard water cause faucet leaks?
A: Yes. Phoenix’s hard water corrodes valve seats, clogs aerators, and wears out cartridges faster.

Q: Should I replace or repair the faucet?
A: It depends. If the fixture is under 10 years old and in good condition, a repair makes sense. For older or corroded models, upgrading may be smarter.

Q: Is this covered in the Rapid Rooter Membership?
A: Faucet repairs aren’t free, but members get priority booking and 15% off all repair services—including fixture replacements.

Conclusion: Small Drip, Big Signal

A dripping faucet isn’t just a nuisance—it’s your plumbing system waving a red flag. While safe diagnostics can give you an idea of the issue, most repairs are best left to pros with the right parts, pressure testing, and experience.

Let Rapid Rooter take care of that drip—before it turns into damage. Our licensed techs serve homes across the Valley with fast, affordable, and guaranteed repairs.

Request a Service

One of our team members will assist you