Common Faucets Problems

One drip per second wastes over 3,000 gallons a year. Usually a worn cartridge, washer, or seal -- straightforward DIY fix that stops the waste and the noise.

Leak can come from supply lines, shutoff valves, faucet connections, drain, or P-trap. The cabinet hides it, so it often goes unnoticed until damage is underway. Finding the exact source is step one.

Handle wobbles, spins, or feels loose? Spout rotates when it should not? Almost always a loose set screw, worn adapter, or deteriorated O-rings. Ten-minute fix, often costs nothing.

Could be a clogged aerator or partially closed valve (five-minute fix), or a failing PRV, corroded pipes, or municipal issue. First step: is it one fixture, one area, or the whole house?

Whistling, screaming, chattering, or banging -- each sound has a specific cause. Whistling means restriction. Chattering means worn washer or cartridge. Banging when it shuts off is water hammer. Match the sound to the fix.

No flow, weak flow, or will not switch modes? Clogged diverter valve, kinked hose, mineral buildup in the head, or cracked hose. Diverter is the most overlooked cause and the most common fix.