Fixing Single and Dual Handled Faucets
Leaky faucets are not only a nuisance when you’re trying to sleep, but a leaky faucet can become costly if it’s not repaired right away, and it can become very damaging over time. The usual reasons for leaky faucets include corrosion, mineral deposits on the internal parts, or defective parts. However, fixing a leaky faucet is not a difficult thing, and it’s better to fix one sooner rather than later because a simple, inexpensive fix can turn into a costly plumber call within a few days to weeks.
Fixing O-Ring Issues
Stem screws are used to hold the handle of faucets in place, and this screw is made up of a small disc that is attached to it, which is called the O-ring. This is one of the main areas dripping can happen. The ring becomes loose or wears out over time, which causes the faucet to drip close to the handle. Exchanging the worn out O-ring for a new one fixes the dripping faucet. This is a major problem with cartridge faucets.
Fixing Corroded Valve Seats
Valve seats are the connection between the spout and the faucet compression device. Water sediment, such as mineral deposits, causes the valve seat to wear down, which causes leaking around the spout area. Be sure to clean the seat on a regular basis.
Repairing a Worn-Out Washer
Right there with the O-ring complication, this is one of the most common causes of a dripping faucet. During every use, the washer pushes against the valve seat, and this regular friction and resistance cause the washer to wear out. Dripping will be seen around the spout if this happens. Fixing it is as simple as replacing the rubber washer in the compression faucet right away to prevent damage from happening to other components of the faucet.
Improper Installation or Loose Parts
Oftentimes, the washer is not installed right, or it’s not the right size for the faucet, and this can cause the faucet to leak. In some cases, it is a good idea to call a plumber to help with installing the washer properly. Another complication is when the right parts are installed too loosely, or the part becomes loose due to regular use. Faucets are used often throughout the day, and the steam screw can become loose, which causes leaking near the handle. If there is a leak in the handle, then the packing nut might need to be tightened or replaced.
Worn Seals
The inlet and outlet seals are an important part of a disc faucet. With regular use, sediment from minerals in the water can build up inside the assembly, which causes the seal to wear down. This is another common reason behind a dripping faucet. The seals can be replaced if there are tears or the sediment is too difficult to clean off, or the seals can be properly cleaned to remove the sediment.
Broken Plumbing
While this is not as common as the other types of issues with faucets, dripping can be caused by broken pipes or fittings. Broken pipes can develop cracks that will interfere with the water pressure, which leads to the faucet dripping. If all the aforementioned solutions have been attempted, and the faucet is still dripping, then it might be time to hire a plumber to check the pipes to make sure they are in working order.
