What Causes a Leaky Faucet
A dripping faucet is a common plumbing problem that often gets overlooked. What exactly causes this issue and how can you fix it? Stick around to find out more!
How do I stop my faucet from dripping?
It depends on the type of faucet handles you have installed in your home. Here's a closer look at the different types of faucets you may have:
Cartridge style faucet
Cartridge faucets are often located in bathrooms. They have handles that move up and down to control water flow. To fix cartridge faucets, you'll have to have a plumber remove the entire cartridge component, and replace the parts like o ring, or a damaged cartridge itself.
Ceramic disk faucet
A disc faucet has a rounded cap with a single handle that is pulled straight up and down. To fix this kind of leaky faucet, you'll have to unscrew the screws of the disc cartridge before you're able to remove the component and replaced the worn out parts like the o rings and rubber seals.
Ball faucet
A ball joint is usually installed in kitchen areas. They can control the temperature and flow of water and feature a single lever as well, which is similar to that of a disc faucet. To fix this kind of leaky faucet, you'll need to remove the screws and ball before replacing any broken parts.
Compression faucet
The most traditional kind of faucet found in homes is a compression washer faucet. It has two handles that move side to side and tighten when the faucet is turned off. Rubber washers prevent the flow of water. A packing nut will need to be removed first before it's detached from the stem screw and faucet itself. Then the seat washer can be replaced along with the o rings.
Ultimately, to fix a leaky faucet in your home, it's best to work with a professional plumber rather than going to the local hardware store and attempting DIY fixes yourself.
What is the most common cause of a leaky faucet?
If you're dealing with a faucet dripping constantly, there are a couple or reasons why this might be happening. Here are some of the most common causes for this plumbing problem:
Worn out washer
Little rubber washers found inside the faucet handle are responsible for providing a seal when the faucet turns off. The rubber washer may disintegrate with time, leading to a leak in and around the handle. To fix this issue the worn out washers will need to be replaced.
Faulty o ring
To stop water leaks, an o ring is a rubber seal that surrounds the base of the faucet handle and spout. Leaky faucets occur from the O rings inability to maintain the seal, which is often a result that happens with ages or damage. You will need to install a new o ring.
Corroded valve seat
The spout and internal components are joined by a valve seat. The valve seat may experience rusting over time due to mineral buildup from hard water. Leaks may occur if the faucet's valve seat corrodes and is unable to form a tight fitting seal. In most cases, you will need to replace the corroded valve seat to fix the leaky faucet.
However, you can attempt to remove the water sediments that have deposited on the valve seat. You can pour white vinegar on the faucet and soak it as well to break down the water sediment. This can be a temporary fix. But in the long run, you'll need to do a hard water treatment on your home's water supply or install a water purification system to prevent further damage caused by water sediment buildup.
Loose or broken parts
There are many different parts that make up a faucet spout. And if your faucet is dripping, it could be be caused one of the washers, bolts, scews, or other parts are loose or damaged. In this scenario you will need to install replacement parts or tighten the connections to fix the leaking faucet.
Your home's water pressure is too high
Overly high water pressure can put stress on internal components, speeding up the deterioration of the o ring, washers, and outlet seals. Leaks may occur from the deterioration of these components. Water leaks can be avoided and premature damage can be avoided by lowering the water supply pressure, which will help control water flow from the faucet as you turn them on and fix your faucet leaks.
Your new faucet was not installed properly
Your water bill can increase significantly if your faucet is dripping due to it being improperly installed. It's crucial that plumbing installations are carried out by a licensed professional with the necessary qualifications. This will lessen the chance of more serious water damage occurring and prevent leaky faucets in the first place.
Why does my faucet drip after I turn it off?
A dripping faucet could be the result of any one of the issues we listed above. The best thing you can do is contact a local plumber for assistance.
Should I worry about a dripping faucet?
Leaving a dripping faucet for long can lead to wasted water and more expensive water bills. As soon as you notice your faucet is dripping, have it fixed. It may not seem like a big problem at first, but over time it can be a headache to deal with.
Are you dealing with a leaking faucet spout? Book a plumbing appointment with Anchor Home Comfort today!
Is your faucet dripping? The professional plumber team from Anchor Home Comfort is a call away!
Anchor Home Comfort is available for plumbing repairs and maintenance services 24/7/365 days a year including after-hours, weekends, and holidays at no extra cost. Same-day emergency repairs are also available.
Our team is pleased to partner with homeowners living throughout Arnprior, Clarence, Bishop Mills, Ottawa, Casselman, Gloucester, Embrun, Cumberland, Manotick, Orleans, or Rockland!
For customized plumbing solutions and high quality services, book an appointment to to fix your leaky faucet by giving us a call directly or use our online booking form!
