Understanding the common causes of faucet drips and knowing how to tackle them can help resolve the problem quickly and effectively.
A dripping faucet is a common household problem that can be both annoying and wasteful. Even a slow drip can result in notable water loss over time, increasing utility bills and wasting a precious resource. Understanding the common causes of faucet drips and knowing how to tackle them can help resolve the problem quickly and effectively. Here’s a guide to the typical causes of faucet drips and the steps involved in repairing them.
Worn-Out Washer
One of the most frequent causes of a dripping faucet is a worn-out washer. Washers are small rubber or silicone discs that create a seal between the faucet handle and the spout when the faucet is turned off. Over time, these washers can wear out, become brittle, or crack, leading to water leakage.
To fix a worn-out washer, the faucet needs to be disassembled. Start by turning off the water supply and then removing the faucet handle. Once the handle is off, the washer is typically located at the base of the valve stem. Remove the old washer, replace it with a new one of the same size and type, and reassemble the faucet. This simple repair can often stop the drip immediately.
Damaged O-Ring
The O-ring is another small component that can cause faucet drips if it becomes damaged. O-rings are rubber rings that help seal the faucet and prevent leaks. They are usually found around the valve stem or at the base of the spout in cartridge or compression faucets.
If the O-ring is worn or broken, it can result in water leaking around the base of the faucet or handle. Replacing a damaged O-ring involves disassembling the faucet, locating the faulty O-ring, and replacing it with a new one. It’s important to use the correct size O-ring to guarantee a proper seal.
Corroded Valve Seat
The valve seat is a critical part of the faucet that connects the faucet to the spout. Over the course of time, mineral deposits from hard water can build up on the valve seat, causing corrosion. This corrosion can prevent the valve seat from creating a watertight seal, leading to drips and leaks.
To address a corroded valve seat, the faucet needs to be disassembled, and the valve seat must be inspected. If the valve seat is corroded, it can often be repaired using a seat grinder or resurfacer, a tool specifically designed to smooth out the valve seat. If the corrosion is too severe, the valve seat may need to be replaced entirely.
Faulty Cartridge
In cartridge faucets, the cartridge is a crucial component that alters the flow and temperature of the water. A faulty or worn-out cartridge can cause water to leak from the faucet spout even when the handle is turned off. Cartridges can become damaged due to wear, mineral buildup, or debris inside the faucet.
Replacing a faulty cartridge involves turning off the water supply, removing the faucet handle, and extracting the old cartridge. The new cartridge should be identical to the old one, so it’s important to bring the old cartridge to a hardware store to find a perfect match. After installing the new cartridge, reassemble the faucet, and the drip should stop.
Loose Parts
Over time, the internal parts of a faucet can become loose due to regular use. Loose packing nuts, screws, or washers can cause the faucet to drip or leak. These loose parts can usually be tightened with a wrench or screwdriver.
To fix loose parts, turn off the water supply and disassemble the faucet to access the internal components. Tighten any loose parts, paying close attention to packing nuts and screws that hold the faucet together. After tightening, reassemble the faucet and test it to see if the drip has stopped.
Water Pressure Issues
High water pressure can also contribute to a dripping faucet. If the water pressure in the home is too high, it can cause water to leak from the faucet even when it is turned off. High water pressure can damage internal faucet components, leading to drips and leaks over time.
To address water pressure issues, it may be necessary to adjust the water pressure regulator, which is usually located near the main water supply line. If the home does not have a pressure regulator, or if the existing one is faulty, installing a new one may be necessary. It’s recommended to talk with a professional plumber to evaluate and adjust the water pressure correctly.
Worn-Out Seals
Faucets contain seals that help control the flow of water and prevent leaks. These seals can wear out over time, especially in areas with hard water. Worn-out seals can cause drips and leaks that may seem difficult to locate.
To fix worn-out seals, disassemble the faucet to access the seals, which are usually located in the cartridge or ball mechanism. Replace the worn seals with new ones of the same size and type, and reassemble the faucet. Replacing the seals should stop the drip and restore the faucet’s proper function.
A dripping faucet can usually be fixed with basic tools and replacement parts. By identifying the common causes of faucet drips, such as worn-out washers, faulty cartridges, or high water pressure, it’s possible to address the issue quickly and effectively. For more complex issues or if the problem persists, consulting with a professional plumber can help resolve the problem and prevent future leaks. Routine maintenance and quick repairs are key to keeping faucets in good working condition and avoiding unnecessary water waste.
If you need an honest, dependable plumber in the Phoenix, Mesa, Tempe or Chandler area, call Jimmy at 480-757-1273.
