4 Reasons Your Faucet Is Leaking

No one likes to deal with plumbing problems, especially faucet leaks—they are sneaky and inconvenient. There’s a common myth out there that faucet leaks are a non-issue. We’d like to debunk this myth one more time—faucet leaks may seem like a minor problem that can be put off for later, but they can waste a lot of water. Moreover, they can lead to mold growth, no matter where they’re occurring. Timely leak detection is recommended to avoid further problems. Today, Mr. Rooter Plumbing looks into the four common causes of leaky faucets.

Loose Washer

A tiny washer might not seem like a big deal, but if it’s loose, it can lead to a constant drip. Every time you turn the faucet on and off, the washer presses against the valve seat, helping to create a tight seal. But with repeated use, this friction causes the washer to loosen or wear down. Over time, the leak can become more frequent and waste a surprising amount of water. Tightening or replacing the washer is usually all it takes to fix the problem, but if the issue persists, there could be a deeper problem with the valve seat itself. Reach out to a plumbing service specializing in faucet repair for professional assistance.

Worn Out Seals

Faucets rely on inlet and outlet seals to keep water flowing smoothly and prevent leaks. These seals are under constant pressure, which means they naturally degrade over time. If you notice water pooling around the base of the faucet, worn-out seals are often to blame. At first, the leak may seem minor—just a little dampness around the fixture. But as the seals continue to wear down, the leak will worsen. Replacing them is the only way to restore a watertight seal.

Damaged O-ring

If water is leaking from the handle of your faucet, a damaged O-ring is the most likely culprit. This rubber ring secures the faucet handle to its stem. Over time, O-rings can crack, dry out, or simply lose their flexibility. You might first notice a slight dampness around the handle or a small trickle of water running down the side. In some cases, the handle may even feel wobbly or loose. Fortunately, replacing an O-ring is a quick and inexpensive fix. A properly fitted O-ring will restore the seal and stop the leak before it gets worse. If you’re not comfortable replacing the O-ring, seek help from a skilled plumber in Belle Vernon.

Corroded Valve Seat

The valve seat controls water flow between the faucet and spout, but over time, it can become corroded. This happens when minerals in the water settle around the valve seat. Routine cleaning can help prevent buildup and extend the life of the valve seat, but if corrosion has already set in, it’s advisable to have a reputable plumbing service replace the component. Do not ignore the issue, as it can lead to bigger plumbing headaches down the line.

Contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing for Faucet Leak Repair and Leak Detection Services

If you have a leaking faucet in your home, it’s important to have it repaired as soon as you detect the problem to prevent water waste and mold growth. While it’s possible to fix certain faucet issues on your own, it’s important to be honest about your DIY abilities and call for help when you need it. Some faucets feature complex designs that require professional expertise and experience. Here at Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we pride ourselves on our ability to repair and replace all types of faucets. Our plumbers are equipped with state-of-the-art leak detection tools to identify the root cause of the leak and address the issue. We don’t just fix faucet leaks; we also uncover hidden leaks occurring underground, behind walls, and underneath floors.