Not Addressing Leaky Faucets Can Lead to Costly Problems

With your packed routine, it’s irritating to notice a leaking It’s tempting to ignore this kind of thing as a trivial annoyance, but leaky faucets can result in more significant damage if not addressed quickly. We’ll share what causes a faucet to leak, why you shouldn’t ignore one, and how calling a plumber can save you money, time and worry.

What Can Cause a Leaky Faucet

You rely on your fixtures to function as designed, but a dripping faucet can still show up for several reasons. Here are the most common root causes.

1. Old, Worn-Down O-Ring

The O-ring is a tiny ring-shaped component made with rubber that helps form a waterproof seal close to the handle of the faucet. O-rings are worn and thinned down over time, eventually leaking water around the faucet handle. They’re generally made from resilient rubber, but even the best materials degrade with constant use and water exposure. Replacing a damaged O-ring is an easy fix, but it needs the right dimensions and type of faucet.

2. Broken Gasket

The gasket provides another watertight seal between the faucet and the surrounding sink or countertop. A damaged gasket is the most common root cause if the bottom of your faucet is leaking. Over time, gaskets can split or become warped, affecting the seal’s effectiveness. Just like O-rings, gaskets are relatively low cost and easy to replace, but finding the right size is essential.

3. Poorly Installed Washer

A damaged or incorrectly installed washer can regularly lead to leaks. Washers tend to wear out more quickly than other components due to the heavy pressure placed on them, so they often need more regular replacement.

4. The Valve Seat Is Worn or Rusted

A component known as the valve seat joins the faucet itself to the spout and is designed to control the flow of water. Rust or other deterioration of the valve seat can cause the spout to leak. Heavy metal and minerals from water with high mineral content is the biggest cause of valve seat corrosion and leaks. Frequent cleaning helps with clearing the buildup, but if the corrosion is widespread, the valve seat may need to be replaced.

Other Issues Related to a Leak in Your Faucet

Overlooking a faucet leak exposes you to a number of other plumbing issues than you may expect. Here are the possible costs of inaction:

Constant Drip Noises

The constant drip, drip, drip of a dripping faucet can be incredibly frustrating, especially in quiet rooms or when you’re trying to sleep. The persistent noise, even if it is something as small as a dripping faucet, can still lead to extra stress.

Wasting Water and Higher Bills

A leaky faucet is wasting more water than you may realize. According to the EPA, one drip per second wastes more than 3,000 gallons of water per year, or enough to take about 180 showers. This “minor” leak negatively impacts the ecosystem and raises your water bills.

Potential Pest Problems

Even small amounts of water bring in pests seeking food, water or shelter. A dripping faucet can lead to a better environment for roaches and rats, especially in moist areas including under the sink. If ignored for too long infestations will require expensive extermination services.

Structural Damage

A dripping faucet can slowly but surely cause more water damage over time, particularly if the leak is in a place where water can pool. With enough time, this standing water can distort wood, foster mold growth and even start to weaken your home’s foundation, leading to expensive repairs.

Weak Flow Pressure

A dripping faucet can cause a decline in water pressure, increasing the difficulty to run other plumbing parts. Poor water pressure can also make it challenging to use appliances that depend on sufficient water pressure.

Why Get Help from Expert Plumbers?

Getting an Expert for plumbing services can help you save time and money. Plumbers possess the tools and expertise required to uncover and repair the problem.

Total Comfort and Peace of Mind

With a plumber handling the repairs, you can trust that the job is done right, stopping future leaks and replacing them with peace of mind.

Affordable Solution

While a dripping faucet might appear closer to a small hassle, ignoring it for too long will often cause steeper monthly bills down the line, including bigger water bills and in severe cases, foundation damage. Getting a plumber for prompt repairs is an economical investment.

Professional Advice

Plumbers can give valuable advice on ways to prevent future problems and preserve your plumbing pipes so they stay in good working order.

Arrange Faucet Leak Repair Now

If you spy any of the warning signs of a dripping faucet, don’t hesitate—reach out to Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for dependable leaky faucet repair. We offer fast, longer-lasting repairs to all your plumbing problems. Contact us today for Expert local assistance.