Not Addressing a Leaky Faucet Could Cause Costly Problems

Considering your hectic routine, it’s frustrating to find a leaking kitchen or bathroom faucet to dismiss this kind of thing as a minor annoyance, but faucet leaks can result in extensive problems if not taken care of quickly. We’ll share what causes faucet leaks, why it’s important to fix them, and how calling a plumber can save you money, time and worry.

What Can Cause a Faucet Leak

You expect your plumbing fixtures to function as designed, but a leaky faucet can still show up for several reasons. Here are the main culprits.

1. Damage to the O-Ring

The O-ring is a small rubber ring that helps form a watertight seal for the faucet. O-rings wear out over time, eventually leaking water around the faucet handle. They’re usually made with resilient rubber, but even the finest materials degrade with constant use and water exposure. Swapping out a worn-out O-ring is a simple fix, but it requires the right measurements and model for your faucet.

2. Cracked Gasket

The gasket provides another barrier between the faucet and the countertop. A broken gasket is the most common root cause if the base of your faucet leaks. After a long time, gaskets can break or become bent out of shape, affecting the seal’s effectiveness. Similar to O-rings, gaskets are comparatively inexpensive and simple to replace, but finding the correct size is important.

3. A Washer Was Installed Poorly

A worn-out or poorly installed washer can routinely result in leaks. Washers tend to break down more quickly than other pieces due to the heavy pressure placed on them, so they often need more consistent attention.

4. Corroded Valve Seat

A faucet’s valve seat links the faucet itself to the spout and is designed to control the water flow. Corrosion or other deterioration of the valve seat may cause the spout to drip. Mineral deposits from hard water is the primary cause of valve seat corrosion and leaks. Frequent cleaning helps with preventing buildup, but if the corrosion is severe, the valve seat will need to be replaced.

Problems Caused by Leaky Faucets

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

Annoying Dripping Sounds

The persistent drip, drip, drip of a leaky faucet can be extremely annoying, especially in quiet rooms or when you’re trying to sleep. The constant noise, even of something as seemingly insignificant as a dripping faucet, will still result in extra anxiety.

Wasted Water and Money

A faucet leak squanders more water than you may realize. According to the EPA, one drip each second wastes over 3,000 gallons of water annually, or as much as taking 180 showers. This “minor” leak negatively impacts the ecosystem and increases your water bills.

Possible Pests like Rats or Cockroaches

Even seemingly limited amounts of water bring in insects seeking food, water or just a place to hide. A dripping faucet can lead to a better environment for roaches and mice, especially in dark areas like under the sink. If severe, these pest issues will require expensive extermination and prevention treatment services.

Water Damage

A faucet leak can gradually contribute to property damage over time, especially if the leak is in an area where water can sit without evaporating. Over time, this leak can damage wood, encourage mold growth and even start to impact your home’s foundation, resulting in extensive AND expensive repairs.

Weaker Pressure of Water

A dripping faucet can result in a decrease in water pressure, making it hard to use other plumbing features. Decreased water pressure can also make it difficult to use appliances that depend on proper water pressure.

Why Get Help from Expert Plumbers?

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

Peace of Mind

With a professional handling the repairs, you can count on the fact that the work is done to the higher standards, avoiding future leaks and instead offering peace of mind.

Affordable Solution

While a faucet leak might feel like a trivial headache, neglecting it for too long will often lead to steeper costs in the future, including bigger water bills and potentially even property damage. Hiring a plumber for prompt repairs is a cost-effective investment.

Expert Advice

Professional plumbers can give Expert advice on ways to prevent future problems and protect your plumbing fixtures so they stay in good working order.

Schedule Dripping Faucet Repair Now

If you have seen any of the warning signs of a dripping faucet, don’t put it off—contact Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for reliable leaky faucet repair. We offer quick, long-lasting repairs to all your plumbing issues. Contact us today for Expert local help.