The drip-drip-drip of a leaky faucet is, without a doubt, one of the most annoying sounds you can wake up to in the middle of the night. You know it’s a sign that something is amiss and that your faucet is in need of attention. You also know that ignoring a leaking faucet can lead to costly water bills, potential water damage, and even larger plumbing problems down the line. So, whether you’re dealing with a kitchen or bathroom fixture, make sure you’re ready to identify all the reasons faucets start leaking in the first place.
Worn-Out Washer
One of the most common causes of a leaky faucet is a worn-out washer. Every time you turn the faucet on, the washer is forced against the valve seat, which creates friction. Over time, this friction wears down the washer, and when it becomes too thin or damaged, it can’t form a proper seal. This results in water seeping through.
Solution: To fix this issue, you’ll need to replace the washer. While it’s often a straightforward DIY fix, you may find that you don’t have the appropriate plumbing tools or the correct washer size. If you’re unsure about or don’t feel comfortable handling the washer replacement, schedule a sink fixture service to ensure the job is done right.
Loose or Damaged O-Ring
Faucets with handles have O-rings to keep them sealed. Over time, the O-ring can become worn, loose, or damaged, causing water to leak around the faucet handle.
Solution: Replacing the O-ring typically stops the leak. If you have the right tools, you may be able to handle this task on your own. However, for a proper fix and guidance, consulting a professional can prevent future leaks in case the underlying cause is more complex than just the O-ring.
Corroded Valve Seat
The valve seat connects the faucet to the spout, and it plays a crucial role in keeping the faucet leak-free. Over time, mineral deposits and other debris can cause the valve seat to corrode. This can lead to leaks around the spout base and is often more common in areas with hard water.
Solution: A corroded valve seat needs to be cleaned or replaced, depending on its condition. If you’re experiencing issues related to the valve seat, it’s a good idea to call a professional who can handle the issue and recommend solutions to prevent further corrosion.
Faulty Cartridge
Cartridge faucets are one of the most common types of faucets in bathrooms. The cartridges regulate water flow, and due to the extensive exposure to water, they can wear out or become damaged over time. When this happens, water may start to leak around the handles or even from the spout when the faucet is off.
Solution: Replacing a cartridge faucet is typically more complex than replacing broken parts. If you’re uncertain about how to replace it or want to avoid making the problem worse, call a professional plumber for help.
Broken Pipes or Fittings
In some cases, leaky faucets are due to the broken or failing pipes and fittings connected to them. Over time, these parts can become damaged due to age, pressure, or poor installation.
Solution: Broken plumbing pipes and fittings are best handled by qualified professionals. They will determine if a simple repair or a larger kitchen plumbing remodel is needed to fix the issue at its source.
Water Pressure Issues
Inconsistent or high water pressure can sometimes cause a faucet to leak, especially if the faucet isn’t designed to handle that amount of pressure. If you suspect that high water pressure is causing the leak, consider investing in a pressure regulator or having a professional assess the pressure in your home. If you’re facing other symptoms like loud pipes or issues in multiple fixtures, it’s wise to have a plumber inspect the system to adjust the water pressure accordingly.
Loose or Broken Parts
Over time, small parts like screws, nuts, and bolts within the faucet may loosen due to constant use. When these parts are no longer secure, they create gaps where water can leak. This problem is common in high-traffic areas like the kitchen.
Solution: Tightening loose parts can sometimes resolve minor faucet leaks. However, if the problem persists, you might have to replace the damaged components entirely. For a comprehensive fix, especially for older faucets, contact a professional to save yourself from potential mishaps.
Know Your Faucet
Understanding the type of faucet you have can make diagnosing and fixing leaks easier. Faucets generally fall into four main categories: compression, ball, cartridge, and disc.
- Compression faucets have two separate handles for hot and cold water and are prone to leaks as washers wear out.
- Ball faucets are typically found in kitchens. They use a rotating ball to control water flow, which has various seals that may need replacing over time.
- Cartridge faucets, with single or double handles, use a cartridge to regulate flow and are more durable but can still wear out.
- Disc faucets, known for their durability, use ceramic discs to control water but are also susceptible to leaks if the discs become damaged.
Let Skagit Plumbing Fix Your Leaking Faucet
No one wants to live with the constant drip of a leaky faucet — but now that you know what causes faucets to leak in the first place, you’re better prepared to take action. If you’re struggling with a dripping faucet, call on the team at Skagit Plumbing. Our experts can handle all your kitchen and bathroom faucet needs — whether the issue lies with worn inlet and outlet seals, valve seat corrosion, or something in between. Reach out today and let us take care of the problem for good.
