Not Fixing Leaky Faucets Could Result in Costly Problems

Given your busy schedule, it’s frustrating to discover a dripping It’s tempting to overlook this issue as a minor concern, but even minor leaks can cause more significant damage if not taken care of promptly. Learn what makes a faucet leak, why it’s important to fix them, and how getting a professional plumber can save you time, money and anxiety.

What Can Cause a Leaky Faucet

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

1. Old, Worn-Down O-Ring

The O-ring is a little rubber ring that helps provide a watertight seal for the faucet. O-rings are worn and thinned down over time, eventually leaking water along the faucet handle. They’re usually made with strong rubber, but even the highest-quality materials deteriorate with constant use and water exposure. Swapping out a worn-out O-ring is a quick enough fix, but it is best when you have the right measurements and model for your faucet.

2. Cracked Gasket

The gasket provides another seal between the faucet and the sink. A cracked gasket is the most likely reason if the bottom of your faucet leaks. Over time, gaskets can break or become misshapen, weakening their ability to seal properly. Just like O-rings, gaskets are relatively cheap and straightforward to replace, but getting the right replacement gasket is important.

3. A Washer Is Damaged or Coming Loose

A worn-out or poorly installed washer can routinely result in leaks. Washers typically break down faster than other components because of the continuous pressure exerted on them, so they often require more consistent replacement.

4. A Rusty Valve Seat

A faucet’s valve seat joins the faucet itself to the spout and controls the flow of water. Corrosion or other deterioration of the valve seat may cause the spout to drip. Clogs and mineral deposits from hard water is the primary cause of valve seat corrosion and leaks. A regular cleaning schedule is helpful for clearing the buildup, but if the corrosion is widespread, the valve seat may need to be replaced.

Other Possible Complications Associated with Leaky Faucets

Overlooking a dripping faucet exposes you to other and potentially bigger problems than you might expect. Here are the risks and possible consequences of inaction:

Irritating Dripping Sounds

The persistent drip, drip, drip of a dripping faucet can be highly irritating, especially in quiet settings or when you’re going to sleep. The ongoing noise, even when it’s something as seemingly insignificant as a dripping faucet, will still lead to extra anxiety.

Wasting Water and Money

A dripping faucet squanders more water than you may realize. According to the EPA, one drip every second wastes more than 3,000 gallons of water per year, or the equivalent of taking 180 showers. This “minor” leak negatively impacts the environment and raises your water bills.

Higher Risk of Pests like Rats or Cockroaches

Even small amounts of water lure pests seeking food, water or shelter. A leaky faucet can create a breeding ground for roaches and mice, particularly in dark areas such as under the sink. If ignored for too long infestations will require costly extermination services.

Structural Damage

A faucet leak can gradually cause more water damage over time, particularly if the leak is in a place where water can build up. Over time, this leak can warp wood, encourage mold growth and even start to weaken your home’s foundation, resulting in extensive AND expensive restorations.

Weaker Pressure of Water

A leaky faucet can cause a drop in water pressure, making it hard to run other plumbing parts. Decreased water pressure can also make it challenging to use appliances that depend on proper water pressure.

Why Hire Expert, Local Plumbers?

Hiring an Expert for plumbing services can help you save time and money. Plumbers have the equipment and experience necessary to properly diagnose and fix the leak entirely.

Reassurance and Total Peace of Mind

With a professional fixing the leak, you can trust that the work is done to the higher standards, stopping future leaks and delivering peace of mind.

Affordable Solution

While a leaky faucet might feel like a minor problem, neglecting it for too long can cause bigger monthly bills down the line, including bigger water bills and potentially even property damage. Hiring a plumber for quick repairs is a cost-effective option.

Expert Insight

Professional plumbers can give useful advice and recommendations on how to prevent future leaks and preserve your plumbing fixtures so they stay in top shape.

Request Your Faucet Leak Repair Now

If you spy any of the telltale signs of a dripping faucet, don’t delay—contact Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning for trustworthy leaky faucet repair. We provide speedy, long-lasting solutions to all your plumbing issues. Contact us today for skilled assistance.