While there are a number of typical causes for leaky faucets, a homeowner who has the right set of tools can fix them with relative ease. Don’t make the mistake of assuming that a leaky faucet will go away in due time, as this can turn an easy repair in one that is far more costly.

Instead of letting water go to waste, why not learn more about how to remedy the issue? Read on to find out about the common cause for your leaky faucet and how to make this problem a thing of the past.

The Importance of Learning The Facts

According to studies that have been performed by the United States Environmental Protection Agency, the average leaky faucet can cause nearly 10,000 gallons of water wasted in a household over the course of a calendar year. To put this number in perspective, it is enough to fill a swimming pool. By taking the time to fix a leaky faucet, homeowners are able to cut down on their utility bills by at least 10 percent.

Researching All Of The Potential Causes

By knowing more about the major causes for a leaky faucet, you can fix the problem quickly. Let’s investigate the reasons why your faucet may be dripping.

Faulty Plumbing

While this is one of the more rare occurrences, a leaky faucet can be caused by broken piping inside of the home. When a pipe breaks, the water pressure experiences interference, and faucets start to leak as a result. However, this is a problem that should only be investigated if all of the other solutions have not produced the desired result.

Worn Down Inlet and Outlet Seals

These seals are one of the more intricate parts of your faucet, and when they experience wear and tear, sediment begins to pile up inside of their assembly, which causes them to wear down far more quickly. Hire Alvarez Plumbing and Air Conditioning to clean out all of the sediment on a regular basis, so that you can avoid this problem.

Loose Packing Nut/Adjusting Ring

This is one of the easiest problems for a homeowner to fix on their own, as the packing nuts and adjusting ring often become loose due to natural wear and tear. If faucet leakage can be detected at the handle, simply tighten the packing nut and if this does not fix the issue, you are in need of a replacement.

Poor Installation Techniques

Has the washer inside of your faucet been properly installed? If not, you will need professional help to ensure its correct installation.  We are more than happy to assist you, and allow you to bid adieu to this pesky problem.

Worn Washer

This is one of the most regularly found causes for a leaky faucet. Every time the faucet is used, it rubs up against the valve seat, which causes significant wear and tear. When this issue starts to take place, you will notice drippings along the spout. By replacing the washer quickly, you can fix the problem.

Corrosion

The most commonly corroded part of the faucet is the valve seat, as sediment deposits form in the area and cause leakage around the spout. With our help, you can clean the air and ensure the continued functionality of your faucet.

O Ring Problems

Your faucet’s handle is held in place by a very small screw and the tiny disc that is attached to it is known as the O ring. When the O ring is worn down or loosened from repeated usage, and if you are experiencing dripping around the handle, this is a sure sign that the O ring needs to be replaced for good.

In order to properly fix a leaky faucet, you’ll need to understand why the problem is taking place. Before you risk having to spend more money on a larger repair, be sure to thoroughly investigate the issue and contact us if you are in need of further assistance.