Ignoring a Leaky Faucet May Result in More Trouble

Given your hectic day to day, it’s exhausting to discover a leaking kitchen or bathroom faucet to overlook this problem as a minor annoyance, but even minor leaks can lead to widespread damage if left unaddressed promptly. Learn what makes a faucet leak, why you shouldn’t ignore one, and how calling a plumber can help you save money, time and stress.

Causes of a Faucet Leak

You expect your plumbing to work as intended, but a leaky faucet can still happen for several reasons. Here are the most common root causes.

1. Worn-Out O-Ring

The O-ring is a small rubber seal that helps create a watertight seal close to the handle of the faucet. O-rings are worn and thinned down over time, allowing water to leak close to the faucet handle. They’re generally made with durable rubber, but even the highest-quality materials degrade with constant use and water exposure. Swapping out a worn-out O-ring is a simple fix, but it needs the right dimensions and type of faucet.

2. Broken Gasket

The gasket provides another seal between the faucet and the sink. A cracked gasket is the most likely reason if the base of your faucet starts to leak. After a long time, gaskets can crack or become misshapen, affecting their ability to seal properly. Like O-rings, gaskets are relatively inexpensive and easy to replace, but choosing the correct size is the first step.

3. A Washer Is Damaged or Coming Loose

An old or incorrectly installed washer can routinely cause leaks. Washers typically break sooner than other pieces due to the continuous pressure placed on them, so they often need more regular attention.

4. A Rusty Valve Seat

A faucet’s valve seat joins the faucet itself to the spout and controls the water flow. Rust or similar damage to the valve seat may cause the spout to start leaking. Heavy metal and minerals from hard water is the primary cause of a rusted or leaking seal valve. Regular cleaning helps with preventing buildup, but if the corrosion is extensive, the valve seat will need to be replaced.

Other Issues Caused by a Leak in Your Faucet

Overlooking a dripping faucet exposes you to other and potentially bigger problems than you may expect. Here are the risks and possible consequences of doing nothing:

Constant Drip Noises

The nonstop drip, drip, drip of a leaky faucet can be incredibly frustrating, especially in quiet homes or when you’re attempting to sleep. The constant noise, even of something as seemingly insignificant as a dripping faucet, can still cause extra stress.

Wasted Water and Money

A leaky faucet squanders more water than you may think. According to the EPA, one drip each second wastes approximately 3,000 gallons of water per year, or enough to take about 180 showers. This much waste negatively impacts the environment and raises your monthly water bill.

Possible Pest Problems

Even seemingly limited amounts of water bring in pests looking for food, water or just a place to hide. A leaky faucet can create a better environment for bugs and rodents, particularly in dark areas including under the sink. If ignored for too long infestations will require costly removal and control services.

Structural Damage

A faucet leak can slowly but surely contribute to property damage over time, especially if the leak is in a spot where water can accumulate. With enough time, this moisture can damage wood, encourage mold growth and even start to weaken your home’s foundation, resulting in extensive AND expensive renovations.

Weaker Water Pressure

A leaky faucet can result in a decline in water pressure, making it difficult to run other plumbing fixtures. Low water pressure can also make it challenging to use appliances that rely on sufficient water pressure.

Why Hire Expert, Local Plumbers?

Hiring an Expert for plumbing services can save you time and money. Professional plumbers have the equipment and expertise required to properly diagnose and fix the problem.

Total Comfort and Peace of Mind

With a plumber taking care of the problem, you can count on the fact that the work is done to the higher standards, avoiding future leaks and instead offering peace of mind.

Budget-Friendly Solution

While a leaky faucet might appear more like a trivial headache, ignoring it for too long will often lead to larger costs down the line, including a spike in your water bills and even foundation damage. Getting a plumber for quick repairs is a cost-effective decision.

Expert Insight

Experienced plumbers can offer Expert advice on how to prevent future problems and maintain your plumbing fixtures so they stay in top shape.

Arrange Dripping Faucet Repair Now

If you spy any of the warning signs of a leaky faucet, don’t put it off—contact Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for reliable leaky faucet repair. We provide speedy, longer-lasting solutions to all your plumbing problems. Contact us today for professional help.