Leaky Faucet Calculator
Example: 1 drip/sec = 19 L/day
According to the USGS and EPA, a faucet dripping once per second wastes over 5 gallons (19 litres) per day. This calculator estimates the water wasted and its cost based on the drip rate.
Water wasted over time
Daily Waste
Litres wasted per day
Annual Waste
Litres wasted per year
Annual Cost
Cost at your water rate
Comparison
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).
Methodology last reviewed: August 2025. How SparkCalc works
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.