A faucet is an emergency when it will not shut off, sprays under the sink or the supply line has split. Close the angle stops under the sink, the small oval valves on the supply lines, by turning them clockwise. If those will not turn, close the main valve and call. Our 24/7 line schedules same-day and after-hours visits when a plumber is available.
Faucet repair means finding what is leaking, such as a cartridge, a stem seat, an O-ring or a supply line, and replacing the worn part. When a faucet is corroded or cracked, we replace it with a new fixture.
When a faucet problem is an emergency
Water spraying from under a sink, a faucet body that has cracked or a valve that will not close all need a same-day visit. A drip from the spout is not urgent, but a drip that costs a gallon a day adds up on the bill.
Put a towel in the cabinet and a bowl under any slow leak. Do not force a seized shutoff. Old valves can break and turn a drip into a flood.
Drip from the spout
A worn cartridge, washer or seat lets water pass when the handle is off.
Leak at the base
A failed O-ring or loose body bolts lets water run under the faucet.
Low flow
Mineral buildup in the aerator or a partly closed shutoff restricts the stream.
Handle won't hold
A worn cartridge or a loose handle screw means a repair or replacement is due.
How we repair a faucet
Identify the type
Cartridge, ball, disc and compression faucets each wear differently, so we confirm the type first.
Shut off and open it
We close the stops, release pressure and take the faucet apart.
Replace what wore out
We install the matched part, and replace the supply lines or stops if they are corroded.
Test the whole run
We check the spout, the handle and every connection under the sink for leaks.
Faucet still dripping?
Call and tell us the brand if you know it.
Repair or replace the faucet
| Situation | Usual call | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Drip from a modern faucet | Repair | A cartridge is a small part |
| Corroded body or cracked spout | Replace | Parts will not fix it |
| Older faucet, discontinued parts | Replace | Matching parts is slow and costly |
| Outdated look and aging stops | Replace and update stops | A new faucet is best on new valves |
Local notes on Lemon Grove faucets
Helix Water District supplies Lemon Grove, and it publishes an annual water quality report. We do not state a hardness number here. If you see white crust on the aerator, your water leaves mineral deposits, and a vinegar soak helps. Persistent buildup is a reason to ask about a water softener or filter.
Nearly half of Lemon Grove homes are rented, per 2020 Census figures. A dripping faucet is a landlord repair in most leases, so report it in writing. If a stop valve will not close, that is a bigger reason to call quickly.
What faucet repair costs
You see the total before we start. Insurance generally covers sudden water damage but not a worn faucet.
Codes, permits and licensing
Plumbing in California follows the California Plumbing Code, which is based on the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC). For faucet repair, materials, venting and connections should meet that code, and larger jobs may need a permit from the City of Lemon Grove building department.
Plumbing contractors in California hold a C-36 license from the Contractors State License Board, and you can check any license at cslb.ca.gov.
Frequently asked questions about faucet repair in Lemon Grove
Yes. Call at any hour if the faucet will not shut off or a supply line has split. We schedule the first available plumber.
A worn cartridge, washer or valve seat. It is usually a quick repair.
Look under the sink for two small valves and turn them clockwise. If they are stuck, close the main instead.
Yes. We install fixtures you supply and fit new supply lines.
A steady drip wastes water and stains the basin. Fixing it is cheap compared to the water it wastes.