Aside from being a minor annoyance, a dripping faucet can also lead to increased water bills and potential water damage. Understanding how this can occur and what you can do about it can help you address the issue in a timely and effective manner and avoid future costs and damage
Here are a few common causes:
- Worn-out washers: These are one of the most common causes of a dripping faucet. Each time you use the faucet, the washer is forced up against the valve seat, which causes constant friction that can wear it out over time. Luckily, replacing these washers is typically a cheap and effective fix for this type of leak.
- Faulty O-rings: Your faucet’s O-ring is the small disc attached to the stem screw that holds the handle in place. Over time, it can become loose or wear out, which can lead to the faucet dripping near the handle. This is generally a relatively inexpensive and effective thing to replace.
- Valve seat corrosion: The spout and the faucet are connected by the valve seat. Sediment buildup can cause the valve seat to become corroded, which can lead to leakage. Cleaning the valve seat regularly and replacing it as needed can help eliminate this type of drip.
- High pressure: When the water pressure is too high, excess pressure can prevent water from flowing properly. This is another possible cause for a dripping faucet, and a plumbing professional should be able to address this issue and adjust the water pressure accordingly.
Understanding the underlying cause of a dripping faucet is important when it comes to finding the right solution. Luckily, professional plumbers trained in these manners can generally easily assess and fix these issues. Reach out to our team of professionals at A Step Above Plumbing Inc. today for further assistance with your dripping faucet.