Plumbing
Why Is My Faucet Leaking? 8 Things to Check
A dripping spout, wet handle, leaking base, and water under the sink can have different causes. Find the first place fresh water appears before replacing parts.
1. Find where fresh water starts
Dry the faucet and nearby counter, then watch while the faucet is on and off. Check the spout, handle, base, and connections under the sink.
2. Check whether the spout drips when the faucet is off
A persistent drip from the spout after shutoff can point to a worn cartridge, valve, washer, or seal, depending on the faucet design.
3. Look for water around the handle
Water that appears during operation around a handle may indicate a seal or cartridge issue. Identify the faucet model before ordering replacement parts.
4. Check the faucet base
Water at the base can come from a seal, from water splashing during use, or from a faucet-body problem. Dry the area and reproduce the leak to distinguish these patterns.
5. Inspect the supply connections
Look under the sink for moisture at supply lines and threaded connections. Avoid overtightening fittings because damaged threads or seals can make a leak worse.
6. Clean the aerator if the stream is causing splash
Mineral buildup can distort the water stream and make a dry faucet look like it is leaking. Cleaning an accessible aerator may solve that specific problem, but it will not repair an internal leak.
7. Check for cabinet or floor damage
Even a small recurring leak can damage wood, finishes, or flooring. Dry the area and investigate promptly if water is reaching materials below the sink.
8. Separate a faucet leak from a wider plumbing problem
If multiple fixtures have low pressure, leaks, or other changes at the same time, the faucet may not be the only issue. Use the pattern across the home to decide whether broader plumbing service is needed.
When to call a plumber
Get professional help when the leak continues after basic checks, a shutoff valve will not operate safely, parts are seized or damaged, water is causing property damage, or the problem appears to involve more than the faucet.
Quick checklist
- Locate the first wet spot
- Test the faucet on and off
- Check spout, handle, base, and under-sink connections
- Identify the faucet model before buying parts
- Clean an accessible aerator if splash is the issue
- Protect cabinets and flooring from recurring water
- Stop if a repair requires force or specialized work