Repair the faucet or replace it?
Compare the failed part, the condition of the faucet and the work underneath the sink before choosing a repair or a replacement.
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Repair an identified part; replace a failed or unsuitable fixture.
An identified, serviceable internal part can make repair the smaller job. A damaged faucet body, an unavailable service part or a deliberate change of fixture can make replacement the useful comparison. Water at a supply connection is a separate fault: neither a cartridge nor a new faucet automatically repairs it.
Which job matches what you found?
| What you know | Repair path | Replacement or wider work |
|---|---|---|
| What you knowDrip from the outlet; body sound | Repair pathIdentify the actual mechanism and service part. A drip alone does not identify a cartridge. | Replacement or wider workCompare a new fixture if the correct part is unavailable or the existing fixture no longer meets the need. |
| What you knowLeak around a handle | Repair pathUse the exact assembly drawing to distinguish its seals, retention and cartridge. | Replacement or wider workReplace the fixture when its body is damaged; do not assume every handle leak requires replacement. |
| What you knowLeak below the sink | Repair pathLocate the first wet point at the supply, hose or connection. | Replacement or wider workKeep this repair in the quote even if a new faucet is also planned. |
| What you knowCracked body or incompatible new layout | Repair pathA new cartridge does not repair the body or change the mounting layout. | Replacement or wider workCheck hole layout, reach, clearance, connections and practical removal access. |
| What you knowHidden or uncontrolled leak | Repair pathControl the water if it is practical to do so. | Replacement or wider workUse broader plumbing help before comparing parts or fixtures. |
Compare the whole job on the same basis.
Ask for the identified service part and labor in the repair quote. In the replacement quote, include the faucet, removal, connectors, access work and any failed shutoffs. Compare the written scope and warranty before comparing totals.
Illustrative arithmetic: a $40 part plus $160 labor is $200. A $150 faucet plus $220 installation is $370; if that quote excludes an $80 supply repair, the comparable total is $450. These are invented inputs for arithmetic, not local price estimates or actual quotes.
Keep four facts beside either quote.
- Fault
Where fresh water first appears, and whether it occurs with the faucet off or running.
- Identity
Fixture model, mechanism and exact service part, where documented.
- Access
Working shutoffs, mounting access and the condition of visible supplies.
- Finish check
Who will check the original leak and the disturbed connections after the work.