Not Fixing Leaking Faucets Can Lead to More Trouble

With your hectic routine, it’s frustrating to discover a leaking It’s tempting to ignore this kind of thing as a trivial annoyance, but leaky faucets can cause more significant problems if left unaddressed quickly. We’ll share what causes a faucet to leak, why you shouldn’t ignore one, and how hiring a plumber can save you money, time and stress.

Causes of a Faucet Leak

You rely on your plumbing fixtures to work as designed, but a leaky faucet can still pop up and cause trouble for a few different reasons. Here are the most common sources of leaks.

1. Damage to the O-Ring

The O-ring is a little rubber ring that helps ensure a leak-proof seal for the faucet. O-rings are worn and thinned down over time, allowing water to leak around the faucet handle. They’re usually made of strong rubber, but even the finest materials will still wear down with constant use and water exposure. Replacing an old O-ring is a quick enough fix, but it needs the correct dimensions and kind of faucet.

2. Cracked Gasket

The gasket provides another barrier between the faucet and the sink. A broken gasket is the likely culprit if the bottom of your faucet is leaking. After a long time, gaskets can crack or become misshapen, weakening their ability to seal properly. Like O-rings, gaskets are fairly cheap and simple to replace, but finding the right size is the first step.

3. A Washer Was Installed Poorly

An old or improperly installed washer can routinely cause leaks. Washers usually need replacing sooner than other pieces because of the continuous pressure placed on them, so they often require more consistent replacement.

4. Corroded Valve Seat

A component known as the valve seat is what links the faucet itself to the spout and controls the water flowing through. Corrosion or similar damage to the valve seat can cause the spout to drip. Mineral deposits from water with high mineral content is the most common cause of valve seat corrosion and leaks. A regular cleaning schedule is helpful for preventing buildup, but if the corrosion is extensive, the valve seat may require replacement.

Other Issues Caused by Leaky Faucets

Neglecting a faucet leak makes you vulnerable to other and potentially bigger problems than you might think. Here are the possible consequences of doing nothing:

Irritating Dripping Sounds

The persistent drip, drip, drip of a dripping faucet can be extremely irritating, especially in quiet settings or when you’re attempting to sleep. The persistent noise, even if it is something as minor as a dripping faucet, can still lead to extra anxiety.

Wasted Water and Money

A leaky faucet wastes more water than you may believe. According to the EPA, one drip per second wastes over 3,000 gallons of water annually, or enough to take about 180 showers. This much waste is bad for the ecosystem and increases your monthly water bill.

Possible Pest Issues

Even small amounts of water bring in bugs searching for food, water or just a place to hide. A leaky faucet can create a breeding ground for bugs and mice, particularly in damp areas including under the sink. If severe, these pest issues will require costly extermination services.

Structural Damage

A leaky faucet can gradually cause more water damage over time, particularly if the leak is in an area where water can pool. Over time, this standing water can distort wood, encourage mold growth and even start to weaken your home’s foundation, leading to expensive renovations.

Weak Water Pressure

A dripping faucet can result in a decline in water pressure, increasing the difficulty to use other plumbing parts. Poor water pressure can also make it difficult to shower and run appliances that rely on sufficient water pressure.

Why Call a Local Plumber?

Hiring an Expert for plumbing services can help you save from wasting time and money. Professional plumbers have the tools and expertise necessary to uncover and fix the problem.

Total Comfort and Peace of Mind

With a plumber fixing the leak, you’ll know that the job is done right, stopping future leaks and delivering peace of mind.

Budget-Friendly Solution

While a dripping faucet might appear like a small headache, ignoring it for too long will often cause larger monthly bills in the future, including a spike in your water bills and even foundation damage. Hiring a plumber for a quick resolution is an economical choice.

Expert Insight

Experienced plumbers can provide Expert advice on ways to prevent future problems and preserve your plumbing system so it stays in top shape.

Arrange Leaky Faucet Repair Now

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