Bathroom Faucet Dripping

Common Symptoms

• Steady drip from the faucet spout when handles are fully off
• Water seeping or running from the spout when the faucet is closed
• Handles require increasing force to fully stop the drip
• Mineral deposits or staining at the drain from constant dripping
• Audible dripping sound, especially noticeable at night
• Water bill gradually increasing with no obvious cause

Most Likely Causes

1. 1

   Worn Cartridge (Single-Handle or Two-Handle Cartridge Faucets)

   Cartridge faucets use a replaceable cartridge with internal seals that control water flow and temperature mixing. The seals inside the cartridge degrade over years of use, allowing water to bypass the closed position. Replacing the cartridge ($10–$30) typically stops the drip immediately. Brand-specific cartridges (Moen, Delta, Kohler) must be matched precisely to the faucet model.

2. 2

   Worn Rubber Washer (Compression Faucets — Older Homes)

   Compression faucets — found in most homes built before 1970 — use a rubber washer at the tip of the stem that presses against a metal seat to stop water flow. The washer compresses, cracks, or hardens over time, preventing a watertight seal. A replacement washer costs $1–$3 and restoring a tight seal requires cleaning the valve seat as well.

3. 3

   Worn Ceramic Disc (Ceramic Disc Faucets)

   Ceramic disc faucets use two ceramic discs that rotate to control water flow. Though very durable, mineral deposits or a cracked disc can cause leaking. Cleaning mineral buildup from the discs often restores a tight seal; if a disc is cracked, the entire cylinder assembly must be replaced ($30–$80).

4. 4

   Worn Ball and Springs (Ball-Type Single-Handle Faucets)

   Ball-type single-handle faucets (common in Delta and some Price Pfister models) use a rotating ball with rubber seats and springs that control hot and cold water flow. When the rubber seats or springs wear out, water leaks past the ball in the closed position. Ball faucet repair kits ($10–$20) include all springs, seats, O-rings, and a new ball.

Quick DIY Checks

1. 1Step 1 — Identify your faucet type: before buying any parts, determine which of the four types you have. Single-handle faucets that move in an arc (up/down and side to side) are typically ball or cartridge types. Two-handle faucets where each handle turns like a screw are compression type. Two-handle faucets where the handles lift or turn with a smooth quarter-turn are cartridge or ceramic disc. Check the brand name stamped on the faucet body and look up the model online — this gives you the exact cartridge part number.
2. 2Step 2 — Shut off water to the faucet: look under the sink for the hot and cold supply shutoff valves — they are oval or lever-shaped handles on the supply lines going into the faucet. Turn both clockwise until fully closed. Confirm the water is off by turning both faucet handles fully on — you should get only a brief drip from residual water in the line, not a sustained flow. Open a drain and let any remaining water drain.
3. 3Step 3 — Remove the handle: handles are typically held by a Phillips screw hidden under a decorative cap on top of the handle. Pop off the cap with a flathead screwdriver (no force needed — it snaps off), remove the screw, and lift or pull the handle straight up. Some handles have a set screw on the side under the handle collar — check with a flashlight before pulling hard. If the handle is stuck from mineral buildup, do not pry — soak the base with white vinegar or penetrating oil for 10 minutes.

Repair vs Replace

Recommended Tools & Parts

• Moen 1225 Replacement Cartridge (Single-Handle Faucets)

  OEM Moen replacement cartridge for most Moen single-handle bathroom faucets built after 1985. Includes a new cartridge with integrated O-rings and a plastic removal tool. Moen's most widely used residential cartridge — check your faucet model to confirm compatibility. Moen offers a lifetime warranty on their cartridges and will send a replacement free if the faucet was manufactured by Moen.

  $12–$20

  Buy on Amazon →

• Danco Universal Faucet Repair Kit (Ball, Cartridge, and Compression)

  Universal faucet repair assortment with O-rings, springs, seats, and rubber washers covering ball-type and compression faucets. Includes a seat wrench for removing valve seats in older compression faucets. Useful if you are unsure of your faucet model and want to have all common repair parts on hand.

  $8–$15

  Buy on Amazon →

• Cartridge Puller Tool (Universal, Plastic and Brass Cartridges)

  Threaded cartridge puller tool for removing stuck plastic and brass faucet cartridges without damaging the valve body. Fits Moen, Delta, Kohler, American Standard, and most other residential cartridge brands. Without this tool, removing a stubborn cartridge often results in a cracked cartridge body left in the valve — this tool prevents that outcome.

  $8–$15

  Buy on Amazon →

Links are Amazon affiliate links (tag: fixitfastai-20). Prices are estimates.

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