Not Fixing Leaking Faucets Could Lead to More Trouble

With your busy routine, it’s frustrating to find a leaking faucet in your bathroom or kitchen). {It’s easy to ignore this problem as a minor concern, but even minor leaks can lead to extensive damage if not addressed right away. We’ll share what makes a faucet leak, why ignoring leaks is risky, and how calling a plumber can help you save money, time and stress.

Reasons Behind a Faucet Leak

You count on your plumbing fixtures to function as intended, but a faucet leak can still pop up and cause trouble for a few different reasons. Here are the main culprits.

1. Damaged O-Ring

The O-ring is a tiny ring-shaped component made with rubber that helps form a leak-proof seal for the faucet. O-rings are worn and thinned down over time, allowing water to leak along the faucet handle. They’re usually made with resilient rubber, but even the highest-quality materials deteriorate with such heavy use and water exposure. Swapping out a damaged O-ring is an easy fix, but it needs the correct measurements and type of faucet.

2. Damaged Gasket

The gasket creates another seal between the faucet and the surrounding sink or countertop. A cracked gasket is the most likely reason if the base of your faucet is leaking. After a long time, gaskets can break or become misshapen, impacting the seal’s effectiveness. Similar to O-rings, gaskets are comparatively cheap and simple to replace, but finding the right size is important.

3. A Washer Was Installed Poorly

A damaged or poorly installed washer can regularly cause leaks. Washers usually break sooner than other parts because of the continuous pressure they endure, so they often need more frequent attention.

4. The Valve Seat Is Worn or Rusted

A component known as the valve seat is what links the faucet itself to the spout and is designed to control the flow of water. Rust or similar damage to the valve seat will sometimes cause the spout to drip. Clogs and mineral deposits from water with high mineral content is the most common cause of a rusted or leaking seal valve. Regular cleaning helps with preventing buildup, but if the corrosion is extensive, the valve seat will need to be replaced.

Other Issues Related to Leaking Faucets

Neglecting a dripping faucet exposes you to other and potentially bigger problems than you might realize. Here are the possible costs of doing nothing:

Constant Drip Noises

The nonstop drip, drip, drip of a dripping faucet can be extremely annoying, especially in quiet rooms or when you’re going to sleep. The persistent noise, even of something as small as a dripping faucet, will still result in extra stress.

Wasting Water and Higher Bills

A leaky faucet is wasting more water than you may realize. According to the EPA, one drip every second wastes approximately 3,000 gallons of water annually, or as much as taking 180 showers. This much waste hurts the ecosystem and increases your monthly water bill.

Potential Pest Problems

Even tiny amounts of water lure pests searching for food, water or just a place to hide. A faucet leak can encourage a breeding ground for roaches and mice, particularly in moist areas including under the sink. If ignored for too long infestations will require expensive extermination services.

Structural Damage

A leaky faucet can slowly but surely contribute to water damage over time, particularly if the leak is in an area where water can accumulate. Over time, this standing water can warp wood, foster mold growth and even reach your home’s foundation, resulting in extensive AND expensive repairs.

Reduced Water Pressure

A faucet leak can lead to a decrease in water pressure, increasing the difficulty to operate other plumbing features. Decreased water pressure can also make it harder to wash dishes and run appliances that depend on proper water pressure.

Why Get Help from Expert Plumbers?

Calling an Expert for plumbing services can save you from wasting time and money. Experienced plumbers have the equipment and experience necessary to uncover and fix the problem.

Reassurance and Total Peace of Mind

With a plumber handling the repairs, you’ll know that the solution lasts, preventing future leaks and delivering peace of mind.

Budget-Friendly Solution

While a leaky faucet might seem like a minor problem, neglecting it for too long can lead to steeper monthly bills down the line, including bigger water bills and potentially even structural damage. Calling a plumber for quick repairs is an economical option.

Expert Advice

Experienced plumbers can offer valuable advice on how to prevent future problems and protect your plumbing system so it stays in good working order.

Schedule Leaky Faucet Repair Now

If you have seen any of the warning signs of a leaky faucet, don’t hesitate—call Rob's Albertan Service Experts for trustworthy leaky faucet repair. We offer quick, long-lasting repairs to all your plumbing concerns. Contact us today for Expert local support.