A leaky faucet can easily be one of the most irritating things in your home and a large waste of water. So, you are probably in a hurry to get yours fixed. Unfortunately, without knowing the cause, it’s easy to make the problem worse.
So let’s take a look at some of the possible causes of a leaky faucet.
- Damaged Washer
A worn-out washer is a very common cause of a leaky faucet, most of all in compression models. When your faucet is turned on, the washer is pressed against the valve seat. This creates friction that can gradually wear down the washer creating a leak. This could also occur if the wrong size washer was installed or if it was installed incorrectly. If the washer is the cause, simply replacing the washer will solve the problem.
- Damage or Loose O-Ring
A very common cause of leaky faucets, particularly on cartridge styles, is a worn or loose O-ring. This small disc of flexible material is found at the base of the faucet, and as a result, if your sink is leaking around the handle area, there is a good chance this is the cause. To fix this issue, simply replace the O-ring.
- Valve Seat
The valve seat works to connect the spout and the faucet. Mineral build-up can corrode the valve seat over time and lead to leaking around the spout. With some faucets, you can remove the corroded valve seat and replace it. However, this is not always possible.
- Replace the Cartridge
Another possible reason for a leaky faucet is a worn-out cartridge. Fortunately, this issue is easy to fix. All you need to do is replace the cartridge. Just be sure to check the size of your current cartridge and get the same size.
- Seals
A worn seal can also cause leaks. Sediment and mineral deposits left behind by the water can damage the seals causing them to stop working. If this happens, the seals will need to be replaced.
- Loose Fittings
Your problem could be simply a loose fitting. Daily use of the faucet can cause some parts to eventually loosen. The problem could be a loose packing nut or adjusting ring inside of the stem screw. If you tighten these two things, the leak may stop.
- High Water Pressure
High water pressure may also cause leaks. It can keep water from flowing away from one area, which can cause it to leak someplace else, possibly the faucet. If your faucet only leaks during certain times of the day or during certain activities, this could be your problem.
- Damaged Pipes
Damaged or corroded pipes can cause leaks as well. These pipes can get cracks in them that can cause problems with the water pressure in your home and lead to leaks.
Final Thoughts
A leaky faucet could quickly become a headache and waste water unnecessarily. When you discover a leaky faucet in your home, it’s important to fix it quickly before you find yourself with a sizable water bill. Often it is easiest to simply call a plumber to fix the problem the same day.
Contact Us
If you need help to fix a leaky faucet, don’t hesitate to call J Griffin Heating & Plumbing. With more than 30 years of plumbing experience, you can trust your plumbing to us. Call us at 781-520-1212 or connect with us on Facebook.
