Not Fixing Leaking Faucets May Lead to Costly Problems

With your hectic routine, it’s irritating to discover a leaky faucet in your bathroom or kitchen). It’s easy to dismiss this issue as a small annoyance, but dripping faucets can lead to extensive damage if not taken care of soon. Find out what causes a faucet to leak, why you shouldn’t ignore one, and how getting a professional plumber can save you money, time and stress.

Causes of a Leaky Faucet

You rely on your plumbing to function as expected, but a leaky faucet can still happen for several reasons. Here are the most common sources of leaks.

1. Damage to the O-Ring

The O-ring is a tiny rubber ring that helps create a watertight seal in the faucet. O-rings wear out over time, causing water to leak close to the faucet handle. They’re usually made with resilient rubber, but even the best materials deteriorate with regular use and water exposure. Replacing an old O-ring is an easy fix, but it requires the correct measurements and model for your faucet.

2. Damaged Gasket

The gasket provides another seal between the faucet and the sink. A broken gasket is the likely culprit if the base of your faucet starts to leak. With enough time, gaskets can crack or become misshapen, affecting their ability to seal properly. Like O-rings, gaskets are comparatively inexpensive and straightforward to replace, but finding the right replacement gasket is essential.

3. Poorly Installed Washer

A worn-out or improperly installed washer can routinely lead to leaks. Washers usually break down sooner than other pieces due to the constant pressure exerted on them, so they often end up needing more regular replacement.

4. A Rusty Valve Seat

A component known as the valve seat is what links the faucet itself to the spout and controls the water flowing through. Rust or other deterioration of the valve seat can cause the spout to drip. Heavy metal and minerals from water with high mineral content is the primary cause of valve seat corrosion and leaks. Regular cleaning helps with clearing the buildup, but if the corrosion is widespread, the valve seat may require replacement.

Other Possible Complications Related to a Leak in Your Faucet

Overlooking a faucet leak makes you vulnerable to other and potentially bigger problems than you might think. Here are the possible consequences of trying to put it off:

Constant Drip Sounds

The constant drip, drip, drip of a dripping faucet can be incredibly annoying, especially in quiet homes or when you’re attempting to sleep. The ongoing noise, even when it’s something as small as a dripping faucet, can still cause extra anxiety.

Wasting Water and Higher Bills

A faucet leak squanders more water than you may think. According to the EPA, one drip every second wastes over 3,000 gallons of water annually, or enough to take about 180 showers. This “minor” leak negatively impacts the environment and raises your monthly water bill.

Higher Risk of Pest Issues

Even seemingly limited amounts of water attract insects looking for food, water or just a place to hide. A faucet leak can encourage a better environment for insects and rats, especially in dark areas including under the sink. If severe, these pest issues will require expensive extermination and prevention treatment services.

Structural Damage

A leaky faucet can gradually cause more structural damage over time, especially if the leak is in a spot where water can sit without evaporating. With enough time, this leak can distort wood, foster mold growth and even start to impact your home’s foundation, resulting in extensive AND expensive restorations.

Reduced Flow Pressure

A faucet leak can cause a decline in water pressure, increasing the difficulty to use other plumbing parts. Poor water pressure can also make it harder to wash dishes and run appliances that depend on adequate water pressure.

Why Get Help from Expert Plumbers?

Hiring an Expert for plumbing services can save you time and money. Plumbers possess the tools and experience needed to properly diagnose and resolve the leak entirely.

Reassurance and Total Peace of Mind

With a plumber fixing the leak, you can trust that the job is done right, avoiding future leaks and instead offering peace of mind.

Cost-Effective Solution

While a leaky faucet might feel closer to a small hassle, neglecting it for too long can result in steeper bills in the future, including bigger water bills and potentially even structural damage. Calling a plumber for a quick resolution is an economical choice.

Expert Insight

Professional plumbers can offer Expert advice on how to prevent future leaks and preserve your plumbing fixtures so they stay in top shape.

Schedule Dripping Faucet Repair Now

If you spy any of the telltale signs of a faucet leak, don’t wait—call Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for dependable leaky faucet repair. We offer fast, longer-lasting solutions to all your plumbing problems. Contact us today for Expert local assistance.