Understanding Why Older Wall Mount Faucets Drip

An old wall mount Kitchen Faucet may begin dripping due to worn internal components, aging cartridges, deteriorated washers, or mineral buildup that prevents proper sealing. Over time, constant water pressure and movement wear down the parts responsible for shutting off the water flow. Older faucets may also suffer from corrosion inside the valve body or weakened seals that have hardened with age. Because wall mount faucets connect directly to in-wall plumbing, repairing them must be done carefully to avoid stressing older fittings behind the wall.

Turning Off the Water Supply

Before beginning any repair, shut off the water supply feeding the faucet. Many kitchen installations include shut-off valves below or near the sink, while older homes may require shutting off the main line. After the supply is closed, open the faucet to release remaining pressure. This prevents sudden bursts of water when the faucet is disassembled and helps create a safe working environment.

Removing the Handle and Trim

Old faucets often use set screws or decorative caps to secure the handle. Carefully remove these components to reach the internal valve.
Typical steps include:

• Removing the screw that holds the handle

• Pulling the handle straight off the stem

• Taking off the trim plate or cover surrounding the valve body

Older trim parts may be fragile, so they should be handled slowly to avoid cracking or bending them.

Inspecting the Internal Mechanism

Once the faucet body is exposed, inspect for signs of corrosion, leaks, or heavy mineral deposits. Older faucets commonly use compression systems or outdated cartridge designs.
You may observe:

• Hardened O-rings

• Worn rubber washers

• Corroded valve seats

• Buildup around the stem or cartridge

Identifying which components have deteriorated helps determine the correct repair method.

Removing the Cartridge or Stem Assembly

Depending on the faucet design, you will either remove a cartridge or a compression stem.
For cartridge-style faucets:

• Remove the retaining clip or nut

• Pull the cartridge straight out using pliers

For compression-style faucets:

• Unscrew the packing nut

• Remove the stem by turning it counterclockwise

Older components may resist removal due to corrosion. Applying a small amount of penetrating lubricant can help loosen stuck parts. Allow the lubricant time to work before pulling again.

Replacing Washers, O-Rings, and Seals

Dripping is often caused by worn rubber parts. Replacing these is one of the most effective repairs for older faucets.
Common replacements include:

• New O-rings on the stem or cartridge

• New rubber washers at the tip of the stem

• New packing washers for improved handle sealing

If the faucet uses a compression system, the seat washer is usually the cause of spout dripping. Installing a fresh washer restores proper sealing.

Cleaning the Valve Body and Seat

After removing old components, thoroughly clean the inside of the valve body. Hard mineral deposits or debris can prevent new parts from working correctly.
Cleaning tasks include:

• Removing deposits with a descaling solution

• Scrubbing the interior with a soft brush or cloth

• Inspecting the valve seat for cracks or deep scratches

If the valve seat is damaged, it may need resurfacing with a seat-dressing tool or replacement if the design allows.

Installing New or Reconditioned Internal Parts

Once the valve body is clean and the new parts are prepared, reinstall the stem or cartridge.

• Ensure the cartridge is aligned correctly

• Seat washers firmly against their mating surfaces

• Tighten the retaining nut or clip securely

Older faucets rely heavily on proper washer compression, so hardware must be reassembled carefully to avoid leaks.

Reattaching the Trim and Handle

After internal parts are replaced, reinstall the trim plate and handle. Ensure the handle moves smoothly and does not have excess play. Proper alignment ensures accurate water control once the faucet is tested.

Testing for Drips

Turn the water supply back on slowly and test the faucet. Check:

• Whether the spout still drips when the faucet is fully closed

• Whether the handle area leaks

• Whether hot and cold water operate smoothly

• Whether the faucet shuts off firmly without resistance

If dripping continues, additional attention may be needed for the valve seat or deeper internal components.

When More Extensive Repairs Are Necessary

If your old faucet continues to drip after replacing washers, O-rings, and cartridges, the problem may involve:

• A damaged valve body

• Severely worn internal threads

• Corroded or weakened in-wall fittings

Older plumbing may require partial replacement to ensure long-term functionality. Addressing these issues prevents further water waste and avoids costly damage behind the wall.