That steady drip from your kitchen or bathroom faucet is a sign that something inside your plumbing system needs attention. Over time, constant dripping can waste water and increase utility costs. Understanding the causes can help determine whether simple repair work will solve the problem or if it’s time to schedule a faucet replacement in Spokane that homeowners can trust.
Common Reasons Faucets Start to Drip
Faucets are built to control water flow through a series of seals, washers, and valves. When any of these components wear down, leaks begin to form. The most frequent causes include worn washers, corroded valve seats, or mineral buildup from Spokane’s hard water.
1. Worn Washers or O-Rings
Inside the faucet handle are small rubber or silicone washers that form a watertight seal when the handle is turned off. Over time, these parts can wear out or crack, allowing water to leak past them. Replacing a worn washer is often a quick fix, but if leaks persist, deeper internal damage may exist.
2. Damaged Valve Seat
The valve seat serves as the connection point between the faucet and the spout, where it’s exposed to steady water pressure during use. If minerals or sediment accumulate here, corrosion can occur, leading to small leaks around the base. Once corrosion advances, a full faucet replacement becomes the most reliable solution.
3. Loose or Faulty Connections
In some cases, drips develop when the connections beneath the sink or around the handle become loose over time. While tightening them may temporarily stop the drip, these parts can wear down, especially in older fixtures. A new faucet installation restores reliable function and stops ongoing leaks caused by aging or damaged components.
4. Hard Water Buildup
Spokane’s water supply contains minerals that can build up inside faucet components over time. This buildup affects water pressure, causes uneven flow, and can wear out internal seals. Once mineral deposits become severe, cleaning is no longer enough, and installing a new faucet restores both function and appearance.
Why a Dripping Faucet Shouldn’t Be Ignored
A slow drip may seem minor, but the impact adds up. Ongoing drips can lead to significant water waste, higher utility costs, and added pressure on your plumbing system. Persistent moisture can also stain sinks, corrode metal parts, and damage surrounding surfaces such as countertops or tiles.
Beyond waste, a leaking faucet often signals that other plumbing parts are wearing out. Addressing the issue early prevents more serious problems, like pipe corrosion or fixture damage, that could require costly repairs later.
When Repairs Aren’t Enough
While tightening a handle or changing a washer can solve small leaks, repeated dripping after repairs indicates deeper wear. Aging faucets may have corroded internal parts that no longer seal properly. In these cases, replacement is the most effective long-term solution.
Professional plumbers can determine whether the leak stems from a single component or the fixture itself. If corrosion, cracks, or significant mineral buildup are present, installing a new faucet ensures proper performance and water efficiency.
Benefits of Professional Faucet Replacement
Choosing professional installation ensures that your new fixture works correctly from day one. Pace Plumbing provides complete faucet replacement for kitchens, bathrooms, and utility sinks, handling everything from removal to precise installation.
Our licensed plumbers evaluate water lines and connections before installing the new faucet, ensuring leak-free performance and smooth operation. Every job follows local safety and plumbing codes to maintain long-term system reliability.
How Replacement Improves Efficiency and Comfort
Newer faucet models feature improved water control and sealing technology, reducing waste while maintaining consistent flow. Replacing old, inefficient fixtures not only saves water but also helps maintain balanced water pressure across your home.
A properly installed faucet provides steady temperature control and eliminates the frustration of constant dripping or uneven flow. This simple upgrade can make daily routines, like cooking, cleaning, and washing, more convenient and pleasant.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Faucet
If your faucet continues to drip despite repeated fixes, or you notice any of the following, it’s time to consider replacement:
- Continuous leaks even after tightening or repairs
- Rust or corrosion on visible parts or under the sink
- Handles that stick or squeak during use
- Low water pressure or inconsistent flow
- Outdated designs that no longer fit your space
Addressing these signs early prevents hidden damage and ensures your plumbing remains efficient and dependable.
Further Reading:
- Key Plumbing Inspections for Seasonal Changes in Spokane Homes
- The Importance of Hiring a Local Spokane Plumber for Water Heater Repairs
Keep Your Plumbing Running Smoothly
Overlooking a leaky faucet can cause ongoing water loss and increased household costs. Replacing it with a properly installed, efficient fixture keeps your home’s plumbing reliable and prevents future leaks. Pace Plumbing ensures every installation is handled with care, accuracy, and compliance with Spokane’s local plumbing standards.
Schedule your faucet replacement in Spokane with Pace Plumbing today for reliable installation and lasting performance throughout your home.