Have you been dealing with a leaky faucet? Perhaps you ignored it for a while but recently decided you could no longer stand that steady (and obnoxious) drip, drip, drip? You’re in the right place.
At Steve’s Plumbing & Heating, we know dripping faucets are typically caused by one of four easy-to-diagnose problems. But if you let this minor issue go unrepaired, it’ll inevitably grow worse. Plus, it’ll cost you extra on your monthly water bill.
Below, we’ve outlined potential culprits behind your dripping faucet, so you can perform a preliminary diagnosis. When you’re ready to schedule repairs, give us a call!
A Damaged or Loose Washer
When your faucet drips even after you shut the water off, this issue is typically indicative of a damaged or loose seat washer. Since you use your faucet multiple times each day, the seat washer screw can gradually loosen, which will cause the faucet to drip.
If you own a newer faucet, it may also have plastic valve cartridges that require periodic replacement to prevent leaks and drips. A plumber can quickly diagnose this issue and replace the damaged seat washer or valve cartridge. You’ll have a fully functional faucet in no time flat.
A Deteriorated Valve Seat
Inside your faucet sits a valve seat, which functions to connect the spout in the compression mechanism with the faucet itself. Over time, this component can gradually deteriorate with exposure to sediment in your water supply.
When this happens, water leaks from the faucet around the spout area. If you’ve had your washers replaced and your faucet still leaks, chances are you have a worn valve seat on your hands. Again, your plumber can quickly diagnose and repair this issue to get your faucet back on track.
Problems With O-Rings
If you have a cartridge faucet, it has an o-ring that attaches to a stem screw, which secures the handle of the faucet in place. Like the other components inside your faucet, this o-ring can deteriorate over time, and when it does, you’ll likely notice leaking around the handle of your faucet.
Another potential o-ring issue can occur around the spout base of your faucet. When these o-rings deteriorate, the wear-and-tear is typically caused by a different, neglected leak or hard water deposits.
When your faucet leaks around the spout base, you might notice pitting on the spout, which may prevent the o-rings from creating a proper seal. If the pitting is severe, you’ll likely need to replace the entire faucet since new o-rings won’t create a tight enough seal to stop the leak.
Improper Washer Size or Installation
If you or someone else previously attempted to fix your dripping faucet and it has continued dripping despite the repair, an improperly sized washer may be the culprit. An improperly placed washer, even if it is the right size, can also cause drips and leaks.
Our advice? Don’t try DIY plumbing repairs! Always hire a licensed plumber when you have pipe or faucet issues to ensure the problem is diagnosed and repaired properly.
Dealing With Plumbing Drips and Leaks? Contact Steve’s Plumbing & Heating
If you’re dealing with a dripping faucet or leaky pipes, don’t wait to have the issue checked out by a professional. At Steve’s Plumbing & Heating, we specialize in residential plumbing services for homeowners in Wisconsin Rapids, Wausau, Stevens Point, Marshfield, and the surrounding areas. We offer 24/7 emergency service when you need it, so don’t hesitate to give our team a call when you need rapid plumbing diagnosis and repair.
To get an estimate or learn more about our services, call our Wisconsin Rapids office today at 715-421-1800 or send us a message, and we’ll be in touch.