Not Addressing a Leaky Faucet Could Result in More Trouble

Considering your packed day to day, it’s exhausting to find a leaky Some homeowners choose to overlook this issue as a minor concern, but leaky faucets can lead to widespread damage if left unaddressed soon. Learn what causes a faucet to leak, why it’s important to fix them, and how hiring a plumber can help you save time, money and worry.

Reasons Behind a Leaky Faucet

You rely on your plumbing to work as intended, but a faucet leak can still show up and cause trouble for a few different reasons. Here are the most common sources of leaks.

1. Damage to the O-Ring

The O-ring is a little rubber ring that helps create a waterproof seal for the faucet. O-rings break down over time, causing water to leak along the faucet handle. They’re typically made of durable rubber, but even the best materials degrade with regular use and water exposure. Swapping out a worn-out O-ring is an easy fix, but it is best when you have the correct dimensions and type of faucet.

2. Damaged Gasket

The gasket creates another watertight seal between the faucet and the countertop. A broken gasket is the most likely reason if the bottom of your faucet leaks. With enough time, gaskets can break or become warped, affecting the entire seal. Similar to O-rings, gaskets are comparatively cheap and easy to replace, but finding the right fit is crucial.

3. A Washer Was Installed Poorly

An old or poorly installed washer can routinely cause leaks. Washers tend to break more quickly than other pieces due to the heavy pressure placed on them, so they often require more consistent attention.

4. The Valve Seat Is Worn or Rusted

A faucet’s valve seat joins the faucet itself to the spout and controls the water flow. Corrosion or other deterioration of the valve seat can cause the spout to leak. Mineral deposits from hard water is the primary cause of a rusted or leaking seal valve. Consistent professional cleaning can help a bit with preventing buildup, but if the corrosion is extensive, the valve seat may require replacement.

Problems Associated with Leaking Faucets

Neglecting a faucet leak puts you at risk for other and potentially bigger problems than you may expect. Here are the potential complications of doing nothing:

Irritating Drip Noises

The constant drip, drip, drip of a dripping faucet can be incredibly irritating, especially in quiet spaces or when you’re going to sleep. The persistent noise, even if it is something as small as a dripping faucet, will still result in extra anxiety.

Wasted Water and High Monthly Bills

A leaky faucet is wasting more water than you may realize. According to the EPA, one drip per second wastes approximately 3,000 gallons of water per year, or as much as taking 180 showers. This much waste negatively impacts the ecosystem and increases your monthly water bill.

Higher Risk of Pests like Rats or Cockroaches

Even tiny amounts of water attract insects searching for food, water or just a place to hide. A leaky faucet can create a hotbed for bugs and rodents, particularly in damp areas like under the sink. If severe, these pest issues will require expensive extermination and prevention treatment services.

Property Damage

A faucet leak can gradually contribute to structural damage over time, particularly if the leak is in an area where water can sit without evaporating. Over time, this leak can warp wood, encourage mold growth and even start to weaken your home’s foundation, which means long and expensive restorations.

Reduced Flow Pressure

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

Why Call a Local Plumber?

Getting an Expert for plumbing services can save you time and money. Professional plumbers possess the tools and experience needed to find the root cause and fix the problem.

Total Comfort and Peace of Mind

With a plumber handling the repairs, you’ll know that the work is done to the higher standards, stopping future leaks and replacing them with peace of mind.

Affordable Solution

While a dripping faucet might appear more like a trivial problem, ignoring it for too long will often result in steeper bills down the line, including higher water bills and in severe cases, foundation damage. Getting a plumber for prompt repairs is an affordable choice.

Professional Advice

Plumbers can provide useful advice and recommendations on ways to prevent future leaks and preserve your plumbing fixtures so they stay in excellent condition.

Schedule Leaky Faucet Repair Today

If you spy any of the warning signs of a leaky faucet, don’t wait—reach out to Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for dependable leaky faucet repair. We offer fast, longer-lasting repairs to all your plumbing issues. Contact us today for skilled help.