When a faucet leak is an emergency
A faucet leaking one drop per second wastes thousands of gallons a year, and the drip signals a worn part that will eventually fail completely. If the leak is under the sink, it can swell the cabinet floor and start mold.
Turn the oval valves under the sink clockwise to stop the water, then call. If the valves themselves are stuck or leaking, we replace them.
| Faucet type | Common failure | Typical repair |
|---|---|---|
| Compression (two handles) | Worn rubber washer or seat | Replace washer and seat |
| Cartridge | Worn cartridge or O-rings | Replace the cartridge |
| Ball (single handle) | Worn seals and springs | Rebuild or replace |
| Ceramic disc | Debris in the cartridge | Clean or replace the cartridge |
| Outdoor hose bib | Failed packing or a cracked body | Replace packing or the bib |
Drip from the spout
Usually the cartridge, washer or seat. The faucet no longer seals when off.
Leak at the handle
Worn O-rings or packing nut. Water creeps up the stem.
Low flow
Mineral buildup in the aerator or cartridge. Ask your water utility for its water quality report, since we have not verified hardness at your address.
Leak under the sink
A loose or corroded supply line, a failed shutoff valve, or a faucet body leak.
Faucet will not shut off?
Close the valves under the sink and call. We will bring the common parts.
Repair or replace
If the faucet is relatively new and a cartridge is available, repair is the better value. If the finish is worn off, the body is corroded, or parts are discontinued, replacement is more sensible.
A replacement is also the moment to fix the supply lines and shutoff valves beneath, which often cost little extra while the sink is open. For the garbage disposal under the same sink, our disposal repair page covers that side.
What a repair visit looks like
Shut off and inspect
We close the supply valves, remove the handle and look at the cartridge, seat and O-rings.
Match the parts
We identify the make and model so the replacement part fits, or we recommend replacement if parts are gone.
Rebuild or replace
We install the new cartridge or faucet and replace worn supply lines at the same time.
Test and clean up
We run hot and cold, check under the sink for drips and leave the cabinet dry.
Outdoor faucets and hose bibs
Hose bibs fail when a hose is left attached and water pressure stays on the pipe. A dripping hose bib wastes water in a flowerbed and can rot the wall behind it. We replace the packing or the bib, and we can add a vacuum breaker if code requires one.
What to do while you wait for the plumber
- Close both valves under the sink, turning them clockwise by hand only.
- If a valve will not turn, do not force it. Close the main instead.
- Empty the cabinet and put a towel or pan under the leak.
- Do not use the faucet again until it is repaired.
What affects faucet repair cost
We give a clear price before work starts. Factors:
Insurance covers sudden damage from a burst supply line, not routine wear. Keep photos of any water damage.
Want your real number? Describe the job on the call and we quote it before work starts.
Service area
We repair faucets in 94523 and nearby 94595 and 94597 in Walnut Creek. See the Walnut Creek page for the area.
Faucets and supply connections follow the California Plumbing Code, which is based on the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC). Outdoor faucets may need a backflow protection device, and we confirm that requirement when we replace one.
Common questions
Yes. The line is open 24/7. Close the valves under the sink and call, and we will book the earliest visit.
A worn cartridge, washer or seat is the usual cause.
If parts are available and the body is sound, repair. If it is corroded or discontinued, replace.
Mineral buildup in the aerator or cartridge. A cleaning or new cartridge often helps.
Do not force them. Call, and we will shut off at the main and replace the valves.
Yes. Let us know the model, and we will confirm it fits.
Still have a question about your situation? Call (855) 575-2890 any hour and describe what you are seeing.