Why is My Faucet Leaking?

Leaky faucets can be one of the most annoying little problems in your home. That persistent drip-drip-drip can drive you up the wall, not to mention it’s a waste of water and can even bump up your utility bill over time. But what’s causing your faucet to leak in the first place? Let’s dive into the common culprits and what you can do about them.

1. Worn-Out Washers

One of the most common reasons for a leaking faucet is a worn-out washer. Each time you turn the faucet on or off, the washer presses against the valve seat, leading to wear and tear over time. If water is dripping near the spout, it’s likely time to replace the washer. The good news? It’s a relatively simple fix you can tackle on your own if you’re handy with tools.

2. Loose or Worn O-Rings

O-rings are small rubber rings designed to form a watertight seal in faucets. If you notice water leaking around the base of the faucet handle, a worn-out or loose O-ring might be to blame. These are inexpensive and easy to replace, so a quick trip to the hardware store could solve your problem.

3. Corroded Valve Seat

The valve seat is the part of the faucet that connects the spout to the rest of the fixture. Over time, sediment buildup from your water supply can cause the valve seat to corrode, leading to leaks around the spout area. If this is the case, cleaning or replacing the valve seat should do the trick. However, this task can be a bit tough, so you might want to call in a professional plumber if you’re unsure.

4. High Water Pressure

While high water pressure can feel like a luxury when you’re taking a shower, it’s not always great for your plumbing. Excessive water pressure can strain your faucet’s components, causing leaks over time. If your faucet only leaks at certain times of day—like when you’re using other water fixtures—it might be a sign that your water pressure is too high. You may need to install a pressure regulator to keep things in check.

5. Damaged Cartridge

If you have a modern faucet with a single handle, it probably uses a cartridge to control the flow of water. Over time, this cartridge can wear out or become damaged, leading to leaks. Replacing a cartridge is a bit more involved than swapping out a washer or O-ring, but it’s still a doable DIY project for those who feel comfortable with basic plumbing tasks.

6. Worn-Out Seals

Faucets have inlet and outlet seals that can wear out due to the buildup of debris or sediment over time. If your faucet is leaking, particularly around the base, it might be time to replace these seals. This job usually requires disassembling parts of the faucet, so make sure you have the right tools on hand—or call in a pro if you’re unsure.

How to Fix It (or When to Call in the Pros)

While some faucet fixes are straightforward and can be handled with a few tools and a little patience, others might require professional help. If you’re dealing with corrosion, sediment buildup, or just don’t feel confident taking apart your faucet, it’s always a good idea to call in a licensed plumber – like Done Right Today.

Prevention Tips

Once you’ve fixed the issue, you’ll want to make sure your faucet stays leak-free for as long as possible. Here are a few tips:

• Check water pressure regularly to ensure it’s not too high.
• Clean your faucet components periodically to prevent sediment buildup.
• Replace washers, seals, and O-rings as soon as you notice wear and tear.

Contact Done Right Today if You Need Help With a Leaky Faucet in Delaware, Pennsylvania, or Maryland

A leaking faucet might seem like a small issue, but it’s not one to ignore. Beyond the irritating sound, it can waste gallons of water and potentially cause damage to your plumbing over time. If you’re dealing with a persistent drip and aren’t sure what to do, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Sometimes, it’s worth leaving it to the experts to ensure the job is done right.

Got questions or need help with a plumbing issue? At Done Right Today, we’re here to help! Contact us today for fast, reliable service.