Why You Shouldn’t Overlook Faucet Leaks: The Cost of Inaction
Considering your packed schedule, it’s irritating to notice a leaky It’s tempting to overlook this problem as a small concern, but even minor leaks can lead to widespread damage if left unaddressed promptly. We’ll share what causes faucet leaks, why ignoring leaks is risky, and how calling a plumber can save you time, money and worry.
Why Hire Expert, Local Plumbers?
Calling an Expert for plumbing services can save you from wasting time and money. Professional plumbers have the tools and knowledge needed to uncover and repair the leak entirely.
1. Expert Advice
Professional plumbers can offer Expert advice and recommendations on practices to prevent future leaks and preserve your plumbing fixtures so they stay in top shape.
2. Cost-Effective Solution
While a faucet leak might feel closer to a minor problem, ignoring it for too long will often cause steeper bills in the future, including bigger water bills and potentially even structural damage. Hiring a plumber for a quick resolution is an affordable choice.
3. Peace of Mind
With a plumber handling the repairs, you can trust that the solution lasts, avoiding future leaks and replacing them with peace of mind.
Causes of a Leaky Faucet
You rely on your plumbing to work as designed, but a leaky faucet can still show up for several reasons. Here are the most common root causes.
- Cracked Gasket
The gasket forms another barrier between the faucet and the sink. A broken gasket is the likely culprit if the base of your faucet is leaking. Over time, gaskets can break or become misshapen, weakening the entire seal. Just like O-rings, gaskets are fairly cheap and straightforward to replace, but getting the correct size is the first step. - Worn-Out O-Ring
The O-ring is a little ring-shaped component made with rubber that helps ensure a waterproof seal in the faucet. O-rings wear out over time, eventually leaking water along the faucet handle. They’re typically made with strong rubber, but even the highest-quality materials degrade with constant use and water exposure. Removing and replacing a worn-out O-ring is an easy fix, but it requires the correct measurements and model for your faucet. - Corroded Valve Seat
A faucet’s valve seat connects the faucet itself to the spout and is responsible for the water flowing through. Corrosion or other deterioration of the valve seat may cause the spout to drip. Clogs and mineral deposits from hard water the biggest cause of a rusted or leaking seal valve. A regular cleaning schedule can help a bit with preventing buildup, but if the corrosion is severe, the valve seat may need to be replaced. - A Washer Is Damaged or Coming Loose
A worn-out or improperly installed washer can regularly cause leaks. Washers usually need replacing more quickly than other parts because of the constant pressure placed on them, so they often need more frequent attention.
Other Issues Associated with a Leak in Your Faucet
Neglecting a leaky faucet makes you vulnerable to more problems with the plumbing than you may realize. Here are the risks and possible costs of inaction:
- Annoying Drip Noises: The continuous drip, drip, drip of a faucet leak can be extremely frustrating, especially in quiet settings or when you’re attempting to sleep. The ongoing noise, even of something as small as a dripping faucet, will still lead to extra anxiety.
- Weak Water Pressure: A leaky faucet can lead to a decrease in water pressure, making it difficult to use other plumbing features. Poor water pressure can also make it challenging to wash dishes and run applicances that depend on proper water pressure.
- Higher Risk of Pest Problems: Even seemingly limited amounts of water attract insects searching for food, water or just a place to hide. A faucet leak can create a breeding ground for insects and rats, particularly in dark areas such as under the sink. If ignored for too long pest issues will require expensive extermination and prevention treatment services.
- Wasting Water and Higher Bills: A leaky faucet is wasting more water than you may realize. According to the EPA, one drip every second wastes approximately 3,000 gallons of water annually, or the equivalent of taking 180 showers. This much waste negatively impacts the ecosystem and increases your monthly water bill.
Schedule Leaky Faucet Repair Today
If you have seen any of the telltale signs of a leaky faucet, don’t put it off—reach out to Freedom Heating & Cooling for dependable leaky faucet repair. We offer speedy, long-lasting repairs to all your plumbing concerns. Contact us today for skilled help.
