5 Common Causes Of Leaky Faucets

Studies show that even a minor faucet leak can potentially waste away three gallons of water per day, increasing your utility bills and dampening your home. Moreover, it can cause more significant damage to your home if unaddressed. Indeed, identifying the common causes of leaky faucets is the first step in avoiding the threat of water damage. Here are a few you should consider.

1. Damaged cartridge

Cartridge faucets are normally installed in bathrooms, and they come with two handles on either side of the spout. Your cartridge may have two valves for each handle directing the water flow into your faucet spout. One common cause of a dripping faucet is damage to your cartridge, and solving this may require you to install a new matching replacement cartridge. As a tip, invest in quality replacement options to prevent further damage. 

2. O-ring problems

A stem screw holds your faucet’s handle of your faucet in place, and the O-ring is attached to this screw. That said, problems with O-rings often create faucet leak issues. For example, the ring may become loose or degrade when used for a long time, causing your faucet to drip close to the handle. It’s also worth noting that O-ring problems commonly occur in cartridge faucets. Fortunately, you can solve this issue by replacing your damaged ring, so keep this in mind. 

3. Corroded valve seat

If leaks originate from the spout, there is a good chance you have a corroded valve seat. A valve seat links your faucet and spout, and occasionally, the accumulation of sediments can erode it. Thankfully, you can avoid this trouble by frequently cleaning your valve seats with the help of a plumbing professional, so feel free to consider this.

4. Water pressure

Your home’s water pressure may cause faucet leaks during specific times. Indeed, extreme pressure can stop water flow in certain areas while causing leaks at other points, so feel free to consider this. Smaller drips can begin from your faucet and gradually expand to your piping, aggravating over time. Fortunately, you can work with expert local plumbers, as they can check your water pressure and adjust it to a safer level. 

5. Faulty washer installation

In most cases, poor washer installation causes faucets to drip. Washers are usually installed against your valve seat. However, constant friction causes them to wear out, resulting in leaks. Moreover, installing the wrong washer size can cause your faucet to drip, so keep this in mind. Therefore, ensure you have the right washer size to prevent complications. Also, if the leak arises from the pipes beneath your sink, the probable reason is a broken pipe or fitting. 

Faucets are indispensable water regulation systems in your home; keeping them in good shape is vital for solving dripping. It’s also worth noting that water leaks can cause a range of inconveniences. Moreover, devastating consequences like structural damage, mold, and so on can occur if leaks are unchecked. So consider repairing your faulty taps immediately to prevent these.