Not Fixing Leaking Faucets Could Lead to More Trouble

With your busy day to day, it’s irritating to notice a dripping faucet in your bathroom or kitchen). It’s easy to overlook this problem as a minor annoyance, but leaky faucets can lead to more significant problems if not addressed promptly. Learn what causes faucet leaks, why ignoring leaks is risky, and how getting a professional plumber can help you save money, time and stress.

What Can Cause a Leaky Faucet

You rely on your plumbing fixtures to function as intended, but a faucet leak can still pop up for several reasons. Here are the main culprits.

1. Old, Worn-Down O-Ring

The O-ring is a small rubber ring that helps form a watertight seal in the faucet. O-rings wear out over time, allowing water to leak close to the faucet handle. They’re usually made with durable rubber, but even the highest-quality materials will still wear down with constant use and water exposure. Replacing an old O-ring is a simple fix, but it is best when you have the precise measurements and type of faucet.

2. Damaged Gasket

The gasket creates another watertight seal between the faucet and the countertop. A damaged gasket is the likely culprit if the base of your faucet starts to leak. With enough time, gaskets can split or become misshapen, weakening their ability to seal properly. Similar to O-rings, gaskets are relatively inexpensive and simple to replace, but finding the correct fit is essential.

3. A Washer Is Damaged or Coming Loose

An old or incorrectly installed washer can routinely result in leaks. Washers tend to need replacing more quickly than other components because of the continuous pressure exerted on them, so they often end up needing more frequent 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 can cause the spout to leak. Clogs and mineral deposits from hard water is the primary cause of a rusted or leaking seal valve. A regular cleaning schedule is helpful for limiting buildup, but if the corrosion is widespread, the valve seat will require replacement.

Other Issues Associated with Leaky Faucets

Neglecting a faucet leak exposes you to more problems with the plumbing than you may realize. Here are the potential costs of doing nothing:

Constant Drip Noises

The nonstop drip, drip, drip of a dripping faucet can be incredibly annoying, especially in quiet rooms or when you’re trying to sleep. The persistent noise, even when it’s something as seemingly insignificant as a dripping faucet, will still lead to extra stress.

Wasted Water and Money

A dripping faucet uses up more water than you may believe. According to the EPA, one drip every second wastes approximately 3,000 gallons of water per year, or the equivalent of taking 180 showers. This “minor” leak is bad for the environment and increases your water bills.

Higher Risk of Pest Issues

Even small amounts of water attract pests seeking food, water or just a place to hide. A dripping faucet can lead to a breeding ground for roaches and mice, especially in damp areas like under the sink. If ignored for too long pest issues will require costly extermination and prevention treatment services.

Structural Damage

A dripping faucet can slowly cause property damage over time, mainly if the leak is in a place where water can accumulate. Over time, this moisture can damage wood, foster mold growth and even reach your home’s foundation, leading to expensive restorations.

Decreased Water Pressure

A dripping faucet can cause a decrease in water pressure, increasing the difficulty to use other plumbing fixtures. Low water pressure can also make it challenging to use appliances that depend on proper water pressure.

Why Call a Local Plumber?

Calling an Expert for plumbing services can save you time and money. Experienced plumbers have the equipment and experience required to properly diagnose and repair the problem.

Peace of Mind

With an Expert fixing the leak, you’ll know that the job is done right, preventing future leaks and instead offering peace of mind.

Cost-Effective Solution

While a leaky faucet might seem more like a small annoyance, ignoring it for too long will often lead to steeper costs in the future, including higher water bills and in severe cases, property damage. Getting a plumber for a quick resolution is a cost-effective decision.

Expert Advice

Experienced plumbers can give useful advice and recommendations on ways to prevent future problems and preserve your plumbing fixtures so they stay in excellent condition.

Schedule Leaky Faucet Repair Today

If you notice the telltale signs of a faucet leak, don’t hesitate—reach out to Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing for dependable leaky faucet repair. We deliver quick, longer-lasting solutions to all your plumbing concerns. Contact us today for Expert local support.