What to Do When Your Faucet is Dripping

A dripping faucet might seem like a small annoyance, but over time, it can waste hundreds of gallons of water and cause your monthly water bill to rise. At Adams Plumbing & Drain Company, we believe no leak is too small to fix — and sometimes, it’s easier than you think.

Here’s a quick guide to troubleshooting and repairing a dripping faucet before it turns into a bigger headache.

🛠️ Step 1: Inspect the Washer or O-Ring

The #1 cause of a leaking faucet is a worn-out washer or O-ring inside the assembly. Over time, these rubber parts can crack, stiffen, or wear down from constant use, leading to a persistent drip.

How to fix it:

  • Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
  • Carefully disassemble the handle and cartridge.
  • Inspect the washer and O-ring for visible wear or cracks.
  • Replace worn parts with new ones from a local hardware store.

Pro Tip: Always bring the old washer with you to match up the exact size!

🛠️ Step 2: Check for Corrosion

If replacing the washer or O-ring doesn’t stop the leak, the problem might be corrosion at the valve seat — the part where the faucet and spout connect. Corrosion prevents a watertight seal, allowing water to seep through even when the faucet is off.

Fixing a corroded valve seat often requires professional tools and experience.
If you’re noticing persistent leaks after simple repairs, it’s time to call the experts at Adams Plumbing & Drain Company.

➔ See how we handle fixture repairs and replacements.

🛠️ Step 3: Test for High Water Pressure

Did you know?

High water pressure — especially during low-demand times like overnight — can force water past faucet seals, even if everything else is working perfectly.

Signs of high water pressure:

  • Faucets dripping only at night
  • Banging pipes (water hammer sounds)
  • Spraying or misting from faucets or showers

If this sounds familiar, you may need a pressure regulator installed to protect your plumbing system and fixtures.

➔ Our licensed plumbers can check your water pressure and recommend the right solution for your home.

👷 Stop the Drip — Save Water and Money!

Ignoring a leaking faucet doesn’t just waste water — it can shorten the life of your plumbing fixtures and lead to bigger repairs down the road. At Adams Plumbing & Drain Company, we’re here to make fixing leaks fast, affordable, and stress-free.

✅ Locally owned, family operated
✅ Licensed and insured plumbing professionals
✅ Honest advice and upfront pricing
✅ Serving Mobile & Baldwin County homeowners 24/7

📞 Call us now at (251) 473-1279
💬 Text us at (251) 572-9513

📍 We Proudly Serve:

MobileSaralandSatsumaSemmesTillman’s CornerTheodorePrichardChickasawCreolaSpanish FortDaphneFairhopeFoleyLoxleyRobertsdaleBay MinetteSummerdaleStocktonStapleton, and Dauphin Island.

Defective faucet. Cause wastage of water
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