Not Addressing a Leaky Faucet Could Result in More Trouble

Considering your packed schedule, it’s irritating to notice a dripping It’s tempting to dismiss this problem as a trivial annoyance, but faucet leaks can result in extensive damage if left unaddressed right away. Find out what makes a faucet leak, why ignoring leaks is risky, and how getting a professional plumber can save you time, money and worry.

Reasons Behind a Leak in Your Faucets

You count on your plumbing fixtures to function as designed, but a leaky faucet can still happen for several reasons. Here are the most common root causes.

1. Damage to the O-Ring

The O-ring is a small rubber seal that helps create a waterproof seal close to the handle of the faucet. O-rings wear out over time, causing water to leak along the faucet handle. They’re typically made from durable rubber, but even the best materials deteriorate with such heavy use and water exposure. Swapping out an old O-ring is a simple fix, but it is best when you have the precise measurements and kind of faucet.

2. Cracked Gasket

The gasket creates another watertight seal between the faucet and the countertop. A cracked gasket is the most common root cause if the bottom of your faucet starts to leak. Over time, gaskets can break or become warped, weakening the seal’s effectiveness. Like O-rings, gaskets are comparatively low cost and simple to replace, but getting the proper fit is essential.

3. A Washer Was Installed Poorly

A worn-out or poorly installed washer can regularly cause leaks. Washers tend to break sooner than other parts because of the continuous pressure they endure, so they often end up needing more consistent replacement.

4. Corroded Valve Seat

A component known as the valve seat is what links the faucet itself to the spout and controls the water flowing through. Corrosion 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 valve seat corrosion and leaks. Frequent cleaning can help a bit with limiting buildup, but if the corrosion is severe, the valve seat may need to be replaced.

Problems Associated with Leaky Faucets

Neglecting a dripping faucet puts you at risk for other and potentially bigger problems than you might think. Here are the potential complications of trying to put it off:

Irritating Drip Sounds

The nonstop drip, drip, drip of a dripping faucet can be highly frustrating, especially in quiet spaces or when you’re attempting to sleep. The constant noise, even if it is something as minor as a dripping faucet, will still lead to extra anxiety.

Wasted Water and Money

A dripping faucet squanders more water than you may realize. According to the EPA, one drip every second wastes over 3,000 gallons of water per year, or enough to take about 180 showers. This “minor” leak hurts the ecosystem and raises your monthly water bill.

Potential Pests like Rats or Cockroaches

Even seemingly limited amounts of water lure pests looking for food, water or shelter. A leaky faucet can encourage a hotbed for bugs and rodents, particularly in dark areas including under the sink. If severe, these infestations will require expensive removal and control services.

Structural Damage

A leaky faucet can slowly but surely cause structural damage over time, particularly if the leak is in a spot where water can pool. With enough time, this standing water can warp wood, foster mold growth and even start to impact your home’s foundation, which means long and expensive restorations.

Decreased Flow Pressure

A dripping faucet can lead to a decline in water pressure, making it difficult to run other plumbing features. Decreased water pressure can also make it harder to shower and run appliances that require adequate water pressure.

Why Get Help from Expert Plumbers?

Hiring an Expert for plumbing services can save you from wasting time and money. Plumbers have the equipment and knowledge necessary to uncover and resolve the problem.

Peace of Mind

With an Expert handling the repairs, you can count on the fact that the work is done to the higher standards, preventing future leaks and replacing them with peace of mind.

Affordable Solution

While a dripping faucet might seem more like a small annoyance, ignoring it for too long will often lead to larger bills down the line, including a spike in your water bills and even structural damage. Hiring a plumber for prompt repairs is an affordable choice.

Expert Advice

Plumbers can offer useful advice and recommendations on ways to prevent issues with leaks and preserve your plumbing pipes so they stay in excellent condition.

Arrange Leaky Faucet Repair Now

If you have seen any of the telltale signs of a faucet leak, don’t delay—contact Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for trustworthy leaky faucet repair. We offer quick, longer-lasting solutions to all your plumbing problems. Contact us today for skilled support.