Leaky Faucet Calculator
That annoying drip might seem harmless, but it adds up! According to the USGS and EPA, a faucet dripping once per second wastes over 5 gallons (19 litres) per day. This calculator shows exactly how much water and money your leak is costing based on your drip rate. Even a slow drip deserves a quick fix.
Reviewed by the SparkCalc editorial team
How We Calculate This
Water waste = drips per minute × 60 × 24 × 0.25 mL / 1000 (litres/day). The 0.25 mL per drip figure is from USGS. Annual cost = litres/year × price/1000 (converting to m³).
Sources: U.S. EPA WaterSense — Fix a Leak Week · U.S. Geological Survey — Drip Calculator: How Much Water Does a Leaking Faucet Waste? · U.S. Geological Survey, Water Science School — Water Q&A: Does a Little Leak in My House Really Waste Water?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much water is in one drip?
According to the USGS, a typical faucet drip is about 0.25 mL (1/4 of a millilitre), or approximately 4,000 drips per litre. Actual drop size varies by faucet type.
How much does a leaky faucet waste?
The EPA estimates that a faucet dripping once per second wastes over 3,000 gallons (11,000 litres) per year. That's enough for 180+ showers!
How can I fix a leaky faucet?
Most dripping faucets need a new washer, O-ring, or cartridge - usually a $5-20 part and 30-minute DIY job. Compression faucets are the easiest; cartridge faucets may need manufacturer-specific parts.
Is it worth fixing a small drip?
Yes! Even a slow drip of 10 drips/minute wastes over 1,000 litres per year. The repair cost pays for itself quickly in water savings, and you're helping conserve water.
Related Calculators
You might also find these calculators helpful: Water Intake Calculator, and Rainwater Harvesting Calculator.
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Drip volume varies by faucet type and water pressure. 0.25 mL is an average estimate. Actual waste may be higher or lower.