đź’§ How Much Water Is Your Leaky Faucet Wasting?

We’ve all heard it—a rhythmic drip… drip… drip from the bathroom or kitchen sink. Maybe you’ve ignored it, figured it wasn’t that serious, or told yourself you’d fix it “someday.” But here’s the reality:
🚨 A leaky faucet can waste hundreds to thousands of gallons of water every year.
Let’s break down how much water is actually going down the drain, what it’s costing you, and how you can stop the waste.
📊 The Numbers: How Bad Is One Drip?
Even a slow drip adds up over time. Here’s a rough estimate:
- 1 drip per second = ~3,000 gallons per year
- That’s 250 gallons a month—gone.
- Equivalent to 180+ toilet flushes or 50+ loads of laundry
💸 Depending on your water rates, that could mean an extra $20–$60/year, just from one faucet.
Have more than one leaky tap? You could be paying to waste a small swimming pool’s worth of water every year.
🔍 Common Causes of Leaky Faucets
Knowing what causes the leak helps you know how to fix it. Most often, it’s:
- Worn out washers or O-rings 🛠️
- Corroded valve seat
- Loose parts or seals
- High water pressure
- Mineral buildup (especially in hard water areas)
đź§ The good news: most fixes are simple, fast, and inexpensive.
🛠️ Can I Fix It Myself?
Yes! If you're comfortable using basic tools, most faucet leaks can be repaired at home in under an hour.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Adjustable wrench
- Screwdrivers
- Replacement washer or cartridge (bring your old one to the hardware store)
- Plumber’s grease
- A towel (because… water)
Want help? Check out our full guide:
👉 How to Fix a Leaky Faucet in 5 Simple Steps
🌎 Why It Matters (Beyond Your Bill)
Fixing that drip doesn’t just help your wallet—it helps the planet.
- Saves freshwater—a resource we shouldn’t take for granted
- Reduces strain on municipal water systems
- Cuts down on energy use if you’re leaking hot water
đź’š Fixing a leak is one of the easiest eco-friendly wins for any household.
✅ What If You Can’t Find the Source?
If you're hearing a drip but don’t know where it’s coming from—or the faucet is leaking under the sink—it might be time for backup.
Signs you should call a pro:
- Water leaking under or behind cabinets
- Stubborn or hidden leaks
- Corroded plumbing
- You’ve tried to fix it and it’s still dripping
đź§° Stop the Drip with Mumma Plumbing
Whether you’re ready for a DIY fix or want a professional to handle it, Mumma Plumbing is here to help. We connect you with local, licensed plumbers who can fix leaky faucets fast—without guesswork.
Call Mumma Plumbing at 1-877-8536866
Or explore more DIY tips on our Plumbing Blog.
Let’s stop the drip and start saving—one faucet at a time.