Why is my faucet dripping?

A dripping faucet is almost always caused by a worn or damaged internal component that's no longer creating a proper seal to stop water flow. The good news is that once you identify your faucet type, the fix is usually straightforward.

The most common culprit is a worn washer or O-ring. In traditional compression faucets (the kind with two separate handles you turn), a rubber washer presses against a seat to stop water flow. Over time, that washer wears down, hardens, or gets damaged — and water starts sneaking past it. You'll typically notice the drip coming from the spout itself.

Cartridge and ball-style faucets (common in single-handle designs) have their own internal components that wear out. Cartridge faucets use a replaceable cartridge that can crack or wear, while ball faucets have small springs, seats, and O-rings that degrade with use. Ceramic disc faucets — often found in higher-end fixtures — are the most durable, but their ceramic discs can still crack or accumulate mineral buildup, especially with Ottawa's moderately hard water.

Ottawa's water supply can accelerate wear on faucet internals. Mineral deposits from hard water build up on washers, seats, and cartridges over time, causing parts to fail sooner than expected. If you've noticed white or greenish buildup around your faucet, mineral scale is likely contributing to the drip.

A dripping faucet wastes more water than most people realize — a faucet dripping once per second wastes roughly 3,000 gallons per year, which adds up on your Ottawa water bill. If you're comfortable with basic DIY, replacing a washer or cartridge is a manageable fix with the right parts from a hardware store. However, if you open the faucet and find a corroded valve seat, stripped threads, or aren't sure what type of faucet you have, that's a good time to call a pro before a small drip becomes a bigger problem.

For a faucet repair or replacement in Ottawa, you're typically looking at $150 - $300 for professional service, including parts. If you'd like an accurate assessment of your specific situation, Ottawa Pro Plumbing offers free consultations — sometimes what looks like a simple drip points to a larger issue worth catching early.