Fix That Leaky Faucet!
No one wants a relaxing or romantic evening disrupted by the constant noise of a dripping faucet. Everyone can agree that a continually dripping or leaking faucet is annoying and frustrating. The fact is, though, it is more than just an inconvenience. It is a problem that can cost a lot of money if it is not fixed quickly. This blog will share the effects of a leaking faucet, common causes, and fixing them.
Problems That Arise Due to Faucet Leaks
Homeowners shouldn’t ignore a faucet leak because it can lead to consequences like:
- Water Waste: Water is wasted when a faucet leaks. If a person has ever put a bucket under a drip from rain, they know how quickly it fills up. Over 3,000 gallons of water can be wasted yearly through a leak of one drip per second.
- High Water Bills: A homeowner shouldn’t be surprised when a home’s water bill goes up along with the leaky faucet. It’s a good reminder that those drops add up.
- Mildew and Mold Growth: A constantly wet surface is the perfect breeding ground for microbes and fungal spores.
- Water Damage: The leak can also lead to water damage to the surrounding materials if neglected.
Reasons for Leakage
Several different things can cause leaky faucets. The wear and tear that happens to a faucet over time can affect the O-ring, an essential washer in the valve that cuts off and turns on the water. It can be stretched and become loose, or it can be broken and unable to seal anymore, leading to a leak.
Another possible reason for faucet leaks, or just leaks in general, is corrosion. When metal corrodes, it weakens its strength of it and can lead to breaks and leaks. Corrosion can also affect pipes and water heaters, not just the faucet. Corrosion is a more prevalent problem in areas with hard water.
Leaky Faucet Repair
Replacing the cartridge is a great solution for fixing a leaking faucet because it can often be done without replacing the entire faucet. This can be much more cost-effective than purchasing a whole new faucet, plus it takes less time to install. Additionally, it can help determine if the cartridge is causing the leak or if there are other underlying issues.
Replacing a faucet cartridge is a relatively straightforward process, but the exact steps can vary slightly depending on the type of sink or faucet. Every faucet has a sink cartridge, but unfortunately, every design has a different one. There are no universal faucet cartridges, so if a person is replacing them on their own, they need to ensure they purchase the correct replacement. In some cases, the process may require specialized tools or knowledge, so it is strongly advised homeowners consult a licensed plumber to perform the job. Hiring a reputable local plumber to do the job can save time and money that might instead be spent trying multiple incorrect cartridges.
The steps for cartridge replacement are as follows:
- Turn the water supply to the sink off.
- Remove any decorative covers on the handles.
- Remove the bolt holding the handle in place.
- Remove the handle or handles.
- Remove the old cartridge, the spring, and the O-ring and inspect for damage.
- Replace with new spring, O-ring, and faucet cartridge.
- Replace the handle, bolt, and decorative cover.
- Turn the water back on.
About Swick Home Services
Swick Home Services has more than 40 years of experience serving Marquette, MI, and the surrounding communities. They offer a price match guarantee, 24/7 support, and flat rate pricing. Call them today for 24-hour emergency plumbing services in Marquette, MI.
