A dripping faucet can be a minor annoyance or a major headache, depending on the severity of the drip and how long it’s been going on. Regardless of the situation, it’s important to address a dripping faucet as soon as possible, both to save water and to prevent potential damage to your plumbing system. In this blog post, we explore what causes a faucet to leak and what you can do to fix the problem.
Worn Out O-Rings
One of the most common causes of a dripping faucet is a worn out o-ring. O-rings are small rubber seals that are used to create a watertight seal between the faucet handle and the spout. Over time, the o-rings can become worn out or damaged, causing water to leak out.
To fix a dripping faucet caused by worn out o-rings, you’ll need to disassemble the faucet and replace the damaged o-rings. Depending on the faucet, this may require some basic plumbing knowledge or the help of a professional plumber.
Corroded Valve Seat
Another common cause of a dripping faucet is a corroded valve seat. The valve seat is the part of the faucet that connects the spout and the faucet body. Over time, the valve seat can become corroded due to exposure to water and minerals, causing water to leak out around the spout.
To fix a dripping faucet caused by a corroded valve seat, you’ll need to remove the valve seat and replace it with a new one. This is typically a job that requires the help of a professional plumber.
Worn Out Washer
A worn out washer can also cause a faucet to drip. Washers are small rubber or plastic discs that are used to create a watertight seal between the faucet body and the spout. Over time, the washer can become worn out or damaged, causing water to leak out around the spout.
To fix a dripping faucet caused by a worn out washer, you’ll need to disassemble the faucet and replace the damaged washer. This is a relatively simple fix that can be done by most homeowners, as long as they have the necessary tools and some basic plumbing knowledge.
Loose Parts
In some cases, a dripping faucet may be caused by loose parts. If the faucet handle, spout, or other parts of the faucet are loose, water can leak out around the base of the faucet.
To fix a dripping faucet caused by loose parts, you’ll need to tighten the affected parts. This is typically a simple fix that can be done by tightening the screws or bolts that hold the parts in place.
High Water Pressure
High water pressure can also cause a faucet to drip. When the water pressure is too high, it can cause the faucet to wear out more quickly, leading to leaks and drips.
To fix a dripping faucet caused by high water pressure, you’ll need to install a pressure-reducing valve. This valve will help to regulate the water pressure, preventing future leaks and drips.
Call Maffei for On-Time Faucet Plumbing
A dripping faucet can be caused by a variety of factors, including worn out o-rings, a corroded valve seat, a worn out washer, loose parts, and high water pressure. By identifying the cause of the problem and taking the necessary steps to fix it, you can prevent future leaks and drips and ensure that your plumbing system is functioning properly.
If you’re not comfortable fixing a dripping faucet on your own, it’s always best to call the professional plumbers at Maffei Services for assistance. With our expertise and experience, we can quickly identify and fix the problem, saving you time, money, and hassle in the long run.
