Have you ever noticed that some things become so obvious because we use them every day? Take faucets, for example. We rely on them for everything from brushing our teeth to washing dishes and filling up pots. So when a faucet starts dripping, it doesn’t take long for us to notice. The drip, drip, drip becomes more than just a little background noise — it’s an issue that we can’t ignore. But why is it happening? If you’ve ever wondered about the common causes of leaky faucets, you’re not alone. In this post, we’ll explore five common reasons your faucet is dripping water, giving you insight into what could be causing your faucet woes.
While it might be tempting to ignore that dripping faucet, there’s more at stake than a little annoyance. A leaky faucet can waste gallons of water, raising water bills and potentially leading to other plumbing issues. So, let’s review the likely culprits behind your faucet drips and what they mean for your plumbing.
1. Worn-Out Washers and O-Rings
Washers and O-rings might be tiny parts, but they play a huge role in keeping your faucet leak-free. They’re located around the valve seat (where the faucet connects to the spout) and help create a seal that prevents water from dripping. Over time, these washers can wear out, and when that happens, the faucet starts to leak.
With compression faucets, washers rest against the valve seat each time you turn the handle to shut off the water. Naturally, this constant friction wears down the washers, eventually leading to leaks. Similarly, the O-ring, which sits around the valve stem, can deteriorate or get loose, causing water to leak around the faucet handle. Replacing these small parts can make a big difference, and an experienced plumber can help determine if this is the root cause of the dripping faucet.
2. Valve Seat Corrosion
The valve seat is where the faucet spout and the valve body connect, and it’s essential for keeping a tight seal in your faucet. Unfortunately, it’s also one of the most common causes of leaky faucets. Mineral buildup from hard water can lead to corrosion of the valve seat, which creates small gaps that water can leak through. If you’ve noticed water collecting around the base of the faucet, it might be a sign of valve seat corrosion.
Corroded valve seats can be tricky to spot without taking apart the faucet, and attempting to do so can cause further damage if done incorrectly. Many plumbers use a special tool called a seat wrench to carefully inspect and replace the valve seat if necessary. Regular maintenance, like using a bit of white vinegar to dissolve mineral buildup, can sometimes prevent future drips.
3. High Water Pressure
If your faucet only leaks at certain times — like at night or when no other water fixtures are in use — high water pressure could be the culprit. High water pressure puts added stress on your faucet’s inner valve components. Water may continue to seep through the inlet and outlet seals, creating a persistent dripping faucet. This is particularly common in homes with newer faucets or if your home’s water pressure is not regulated properly.
High water pressure isn’t just one of the most common causes of leaky faucets; it can also lead to other issues down the line, like broken plumbing pipes or worn seals. An experienced plumber can check your water pressure and, if necessary, install a pressure regulator to bring things down to a safe level.
4. Loose or Broken Parts
Our faucets have a lot of small components working together, like screws, nuts, and washers. Over time, these parts can become loose or even break. A loose or broken stem screw, damaged packing nut, or worn seals are often the root causes of a leaking faucet. This usually happens with regular use, especially with older faucets or those that weren’t installed correctly.
If you notice water dripping from the faucet handles, it could be because some parts have loosened up inside. An expert plumber can take apart the faucet, identify the loose or broken parts, and make repairs or replacements as needed. Getting these parts tightened up or replaced might seem simple, but it’s vital to make sure everything is put back together correctly to avoid future leaks.
5. Cartridge or Ball Faucet Issues
Cartridge and ball faucets are popular in many homes, and while they’re generally reliable, they can start leaking due to wear and tear. In a cartridge faucet, a small cylindrical cartridge inside the faucet controls the water flow. If the cartridge is worn out or damaged, this can be one of the reasons your faucet is dripping water. In this instance, you’ll notice a steady drip from the faucet spout. This can also happen in ball faucets, which use a rounded cap and ball joint to control water flow and tend to develop leaks with age.
Cartridge faucets and ball faucets each have unique parts, so replacing them isn’t always straightforward. These types of repairs are best left to a professional plumber, as replacing a damaged cartridge or fixing the ball joint requires specific tools and knowledge. By leaving it to a pro, you’ll avoid any potential DIY mishaps and make sure everything is properly installed for lasting results.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore a Dripping Faucet in Kent, OH
Knowing the reasons your faucet is dripping water is helpful, but taking action to fix it is just as necessary. A dripping faucet may seem harmless at first, but even minor leaks can waste gallons of water over time. That slow drip, if left unattended, can impact your water bill and your household water usage.
Here’s why addressing a leaking faucet is worth it:
- Saves Water and Lowers Bills: Every drop of water counts, and a dripping faucet can add up to hundreds of gallons wasted each year. Fixing the leak will save on water bills.
- Prevents Damage: Water collecting around your faucet or sink drain due to leaks can lead to mildew growth, water damage, and even rust. Addressing leaks promptly helps protect your bathroom or kitchen from additional issues.
- Preserves Plumbing Health: Over time, the constant strain from dripping faucets can wear down other parts of your plumbing system. Regular maintenance and timely repairs keep everything in better shape.
Ready to Fix Your Dripping Faucet in Kent, OH?
There can be several reasons your faucet is dripping water, including worn-out washers, corroded valve seats, high water pressure, and faulty cartridges. While it may seem like an insignificant issue, a dripping faucet can lead to wasted water, higher bills, and potential plumbing problems over time.
If you’re tired of hearing that drip-drip-drip and watching your water bills creep up, it might be time to get some help. At Apollo, our team of expert plumbers in Kent, OH, can diagnose and repair all types of faucet issues.
A dripping faucet may start as a minor nuisance, but it can lead to wasted water, higher bills, and even potential damage. Now that you know the common causes of leaky faucets, it’s time to take action. Contact us today to schedule your bathroom plumbing repair and get your faucet working like new!
