Monthly Faucet Quick Checks
Updated February 20, 2026
A dripping faucet wastes over 3,000 gallons a year. A slow leak under the sink can cause thousands in water damage before you notice it. Five minutes once a month -- checking every faucet in the house -- catches these problems while they're still cheap fixes. Here's the quick-check routine.
Overview
A dripping faucet wastes over 3,000 gallons a year. A slow leak under the sink can cause thousands in water damage before you notice it. Five minutes once a month -- checking every faucet in the house -- catches these problems while they're still cheap fixes. Here's the quick-check routine.
What to Know
Step by Step
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Check for drips
Turn each faucet fully off and watch the spout for 10 seconds. Even a slow drip -- one drop every few seconds -- adds up fast. If it drips, the cartridge, washer, or O-ring needs replacement.
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Inspect under the sink
Open the cabinet and look at the supply lines, shutoff valves, and faucet base connections. Feel for moisture. Look for water stains, corrosion, or mineral deposits on fittings.
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Test handle operation
Move each handle through its full range. It should be smooth with no grinding, catching, or stiffness. A handle getting harder to operate means the cartridge is wearing.
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Check aerator flow
Run each faucet and check for even flow. If the stream is weak, sprays sideways, or sputters, unscrew the aerator and clean it. Soak in vinegar overnight if there's mineral buildup.
Pro Tips
- Make it part of another routine -- check faucets the same day you test smoke detectors.
- Keep a small flashlight under the kitchen sink for easy moisture checks.
- Braided stainless steel supply lines last longer than rubber -- replace old ones proactively for $5-$10 each.
- Know your faucet brand and model. Having a spare cartridge saves a trip during an emergency.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring a small drip -- one drip per second wastes over 3,000 gallons per year.
- Forcing a stiff handle, which accelerates cartridge wear.
- Never looking under the sink -- slow leaks cause mold and structural damage.
- Waiting until the faucet breaks to buy parts.
When to Call a Pro
If a leak comes from inside the faucet body, the faucet may need a full rebuild or replacement. If you see water damage to the cabinet floor, address both the leak and the damage -- mold can start within 48 hours.
Bottom Line
Five minutes a month, every faucet in the house. Check for drips, look under the sink, test the handles, clean the aerator. That's it -- and it prevents the two most expensive faucet problems: water waste and hidden leaks.