Common Reasons for a Leaking Faucet
Understanding the common reasons behind faucet leaks can help homeowners tackle the issue promptly and effectively.
A leaking faucet is a common household problem that can be both annoying and wasteful. Beyond the irritating drip sound, a leaky faucet can waste a large number of gallons of water over time, leading to more expensive water bills and potential water damage. Understanding the common reasons behind faucet leaks can help homeowners tackle the issue promptly and effectively. Here's an in-depth look at the most frequent causes of leaking faucets and how to address them.
Worn-out O-ring
The O-ring is a small disc connected to the stem screw that harbors the faucet handle in place. Over time, this component can wear out or become loose, causing water to leak near the handle. Replacing the O-ring is often a simple fix that can resolve the issue. However, it's crucial to use the correct size and type of O-ring for the specific faucet model.
Corroded valve seat
The valve seat is the coupling between the faucet and the spout. Over time, water sediments can accumulate and corrode the valve seat, leading to leaks around the spout area. Routine cleaning of the valve seat can prevent this issue, but if corrosion has already occurred, replacement may be necessary. A professional plumbing repair service can efficiently handle valve seat replacement.
Loose parts
Faucets consist of several components that can become loose over time due to regular use. A loose part, such as a stem or nut, can cause water to leak from various points of the faucet. Tightening these components often resolves the issue. However, care must be taken not to overtighten, which can lead to damage.
Worn-out washers
In traditional compression faucets, rubber washers create a seal to prevent water flow when the faucet is turned off. These washers can wear out or become stiff over time, leading to leaks. Replacing worn washers is a common and relatively simple repair that can stop many faucet leaks. It's important to use the correct size and type of washer for the specific faucet model.
Broken cartridge
Cartridge faucets use a cartridge to control water flow. If this cartridge becomes damaged or worn, it can cause leaks. Replacing the cartridge can often resolve the issue. While cartridge replacement is more complex than changing a washer, it's still a task that many homeowners can handle with proper guidance. For those less comfortable with DIY repairs, a residential plumber can quickly replace the cartridge.
Mineral buildup
In areas with hard water, mineral deposits can gather inside the faucet, affecting its function and potentially causing leaks. Regular cleaning and descaling can prevent this issue. For severe buildup, disassembling the faucet and soaking the parts in vinegar or a commercial descaling solution may be necessary.
Improper faucet installation
Sometimes, a leaking faucet is simply the result of improper installation. If a faucet is not installed properly, it may not create proper seals, leading to leaks. In such cases, reinstallation by a professional plumber is often the best solution to guarantee proper fitting and function.
Cracked faucet body
While less common, cracks in the faucet body can cause leaks. These cracks can occur due to impact damage, freeze damage, or simply age. Unfortunately, a cracked faucet body typically requires complete faucet replacement. Talking with a professional plumbing service can help determine if replacement is necessary and select an appropriate new faucet.
High water pressure
Excessively high water pressure can strain faucet components, leading to leaks. If water pressure is consistently too high, it can damage seals and washers more quickly than normal. Installing a pressure-reducing valve can help maintain appropriate water pressure throughout the home, prolonging the life of faucets and other plumbing fixtures.
Age and wear
Sometimes, a faucet may simply be at the end of its lifespan. Most faucets are designed to last for many years, but eventually, wear can lead to leaks that are more cost-effective to address by replacing the entire faucet rather than attempting repairs.
Promptly addressing a leaking faucet is crucial to prevent water waste and potential water damage. While many faucet repairs can be DIY projects for handy homeowners, some issues may require the expertise of a professional plumber. When in doubt, or for more complex repairs, contacting a residential plumber is advisable.
By understanding these common reasons for faucet leaks, homeowners can take proactive steps to maintain their plumbing fixtures and address issues promptly. Whether through DIY repairs or professional assistance, fixing leaky faucets eliminates the annoyance of dripping sounds, contributes to water conservation, and helps maintain the overall health of a home's plumbing system. Regular attention to these small details can lead to significant savings in water bills and prevent more extensive water damage in the long run.
Solace Plumbing is a licensed commercial and residential plumber with 26 years of experience in Gilbert, Az. We provide the East Valley with a wide range of plumbing services, including 24-hour emergency service. Some of our specialties include plumbing installation and repair, remodeling, natural gas and propane piping, slab leak detection, and full-service repiping. Commercial work includes restaurants, school districts, and tenant improvements. Call Solace Plumbing at 480-630-0224.
