Not Fixing Leaky Faucets May Lead to More Trouble

With your hectic schedule, it’s irritating to find a leaking Some homeowners choose to dismiss this problem as a small annoyance, but leaky faucets can cause more significant damage if not addressed soon. We’ll share what causes faucet leaks, why ignoring leaks is risky, and how calling a plumber can help you save money, time and anxiety.

What Can Cause a Faucet Leak

You expect your plumbing to function as expected, but a faucet leak can still pop up for several reasons. Here are the most common sources of leaks.

1. Old, Worn-Down O-Ring

The O-ring is a small rubber ring that helps create a waterproof seal close to the handle of the faucet. O-rings are worn and thinned down over time, causing water to leak around the faucet handle. They’re generally made with strong rubber, but even the best materials degrade with regular use and water exposure. Swapping out a damaged O-ring is a quick enough fix, but it requires the right measurements and kind of faucet.

2. Cracked Gasket

The gasket forms another seal between the faucet and the sink. A broken gasket is the most common root cause if the base of your faucet leaks. Over time, gaskets can split or become bent out of shape, impacting the entire seal. Similar to O-rings, gaskets are relatively inexpensive and easy to replace, but finding the right size is crucial.

3. A Washer Is Damaged or Coming Loose

An old or incorrectly installed washer can routinely lead to leaks. Washers typically need replacing more quickly than other parts because of the continuous pressure placed on them, so they often need more regular replacement.

4. A Rusty Valve Seat

The valve seat is what links the faucet itself to the spout and is responsible for the water flow. Corrosion or similar damage to the valve seat may cause the spout to start leaking. Mineral deposits from hard water is the primary cause of valve seat corrosion and leaks. Regular cleaning can help a bit with limiting buildup, but if the corrosion is extensive, the valve seat may require replacement.

Other Issues Associated with Leaking Faucets

Overlooking a faucet leak puts you at risk for more problems with the plumbing than you might realize. Here are the possible consequences of trying to put it off:

Annoying Dripping Sounds

The constant drip, drip, drip of a leaky faucet can be incredibly irritating, especially in quiet spaces or when you’re trying to sleep. The persistent noise, even of something as small as a dripping faucet, can still cause extra anxiety.

Wasting Water and Money

A leaky faucet wastes more water than you may believe. According to the EPA, one drip per second wastes more than 3,000 gallons of water annually, or the equivalent of taking 180 showers. This “minor” leak is bad for the environment and raises your monthly water bill.

Potential Pests like Rats or Cockroaches

Even small amounts of water bring in bugs searching for food, water or shelter. A leaky faucet can encourage a hotbed for roaches and mice, especially in damp areas like under the sink. If ignored for too long infestations will require pricey extermination and prevention treatment services.

Water Damage

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

Decreased Water Pressure

A leaky faucet can result in a decrease in water pressure, making it difficult to operate other plumbing fixtures. Low water pressure can also make it challenging to shower and run appliances that depend on adequate water pressure.

Why Get Help from Expert Plumbers?

Getting an Expert for plumbing services can save you time and money. Experienced plumbers have the tools and experience necessary to properly diagnose and fix the leak entirely.

Peace of Mind

With a plumber handling the repairs, you’ll know that the solution lasts, avoiding future leaks and replacing them with peace of mind.

Affordable Solution

While a dripping faucet might appear more like a trivial annoyance, ignoring it for too long could result in larger monthly bills down the line, including bigger water bills and even foundation damage. Hiring a plumber for prompt repairs is an economical decision.

Professional Advice

Experienced plumbers can give Expert advice on practices to prevent future leaks and preserve your plumbing pipes so they stay in excellent condition.

Arrange Dripping Faucet Repair Now

If you have seen any of the likely signs of a faucet leak, don’t wait—call Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for dependable leaky faucet repair. We offer speedy, long-lasting repairs to all your plumbing issues. Contact us today for Expert local assistance.