A leaky faucet might seem like a minor annoyance, but that steady drip adds up quickly. Every drop represents wasted water and money on your utility bill. You're probably weighing whether to tackle the repair yourself or bring in a professional. 

DIY faucet repair sounds appealing, but without the right tools, parts, or experience, a simple fix can turn into a frustrating afternoon. On the other hand, hiring a plumber means you'll get it done right the first time with no guesswork.

This guide breaks down what's likely causing the drip, what a leaky faucet actually costs you, and when it makes sense to call in a trusted Greenville plumber.

The Costs of a Leaky Faucet in Greenville

When you ignore a dripping faucet, you're watching money flow straight down the drain, month after month. Understanding the real financial impact can help you make an informed decision about repairs, and when bringing in a professional plumber in Greenville is the smarter investment.

Significant Water Waste

That single drop hitting your sink every second might seem harmless, but the numbers tell a different story. A household leak can lead to over 180 gallons of water wasted per week and, in the bigger picture, 9,400 gallons wasted annually.

Increased Water Bills

A leaky faucet can waste more than 20 gallons of water per day. That's water you pay for, wasted. Fixing these leaks can save homeowners roughly 10% on their water bills. While it may not seem like much, you can avoid a tenth of your money going down the drain by fixing a leaky faucet.

Unexpected Repair Expenses

Whether you're deciding to repair a faucet yourself or hire a professional, it's an expense nobody sees coming. Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® of Greenville offers up front pricing, so there's no guessing about what the repair will cost. You'll receive a firm price before any work begins, which means you can plan your budget accordingly.

3 Common Causes for a Leaking Faucet

Most leaks stem from a handful of mechanical issues. Exploring common causes can help you figure out how to stop a leaking faucet before it drives up your water bill. Here's what usually goes wrong.

1. Worn-Out Internal Parts

The small rubber components inside your faucet, called washers and O-rings, take constant pressure and friction every time you turn the water on and off. Over time, these parts wear down and lose their ability to create a watertight seal. When that happens, water can start to drip through the compromised seal.

Replacing these parts isn't necessarily complicated, but it requires the right replacement components and a bit of mechanical know-how. If you don't have experience with faucet repairs or access to the exact parts your fixture needs, what seems like a quick fix can turn into a trial-and-error process.

2. Corroded Valve Seats and Mineral Buildup

 

The valve seat connects your faucet to the spout, and corrosion in this area is a common source of leaks. Even in areas with relatively soft water, minerals can accumulate over time and cause problems. According to Greenville Water's 2025 report, the local water supply is classified as soft, but that doesn't mean mineral deposits can't form.

Even small amounts of minerals can build up over the years. This buildup wears on valve seats and internal components, eventually creating gaps where water can escape. Regular exposure to water and the chemicals used to treat municipal supplies can accelerate corrosion, especially in older fixtures.

3. A Failing Faucet Cartridge

If you have a single-handle faucet, the cartridge controls water flow, volume, and temperature. It's a hardworking part that manages every adjustment you make when you turn the handle. When the cartridge starts to fail, you'll often notice leaks, inconsistent water temperature, or difficulty controlling the flow.

Unlike a simple washer replacement, a failing cartridge typically requires a full component swap. You'll need to identify the exact make and model of your faucet to source the correct replacement cartridge. Installing it correctly requires disassembling the faucet assembly without damaging any surrounding parts.

DIY vs. Professional Leaky Faucet Repair

Once you understand what's causing your dripping faucet repair issue, the next step is deciding who should handle the fix. Some repairs are manageable for a handy homeowner, while others are better left to a licensed professional.

Simple DIY Steps for Minor Faucet Drips

If you're comfortable working with basic tools and have some DIY faucet repair experience, a straightforward washer or O-ring replacement might be within your skill set. Follow these steps:

  1. Turn off the faucet's water supply first. 
  2. Remove the faucet handle, then carefully pull out the internal cartridge or stem assembly. 
  3. Check the rubber seals and washers for visible wear or damage. 
  4. If you find a worn washer, take it to your local hardware store to find an exact match. 
  5. Replace the damaged part and reassemble the faucet before turning the water back on to test it. 

Keep in mind that if you can't locate the right replacement part or are unsure about any step in the process, you can easily cause additional damage, turning a minor repair into a larger problem.

When It's Time to Call a Greenville Plumber

There are clear situations where professional help is the smarter, safer choice. If you're trying to figure out how to fix a leaky faucet in Greenville and any of the following apply, it's time to call in a trained plumber:

  • You can't identify the leak's source: If the drip seems to be coming from an unexpected location or you can't pinpoint where the water is escaping, a professional can accurately diagnose the issue.
  • The leak is significant: A steady stream or pooling water indicates a more serious problem that requires immediate attention and proper tools.
  • You don't have the right equipment: Faucet repairs often require specialized wrenches, basin wrenches, or cartridge pullers that most homeowners don't keep on hand.
  • You want guaranteed results: Professional repairs come with warranties and the assurance that the job is done correctly the first time, saving you the frustration and expense of repeated attempts.

Get Your Faucet Fixed Right With Benjamin Franklin Plumbing

A small drip costs you money every day it goes unfixed. Whether it's a worn washer or a failing cartridge, the longer you wait, the higher your water bill climbs. Benjamin Franklin Plumbing of Greenville takes the worry out of the repair process with up front pricing, guaranteed on-time service, and a two-year warranty on all work. You'll know exactly what to expect before any work begins. If there's any delay, it's you we pay™.

Book professional plumbing services now and get peace of mind with a repair done right.