Why Your Faucet Leaks

Each home will contain at least one faucet per bathroom, kitchen, and slop sink; and if there are any on the outside of your home. These faucets have the ability to start leaking for a multitude of different reasons. Experiencing these leaks will cause you to waste water, and more importantly — money!

1. Oh No, the O Ring – For regular sink faucets, the handle of the faucet is attached using a stem screw and O ring. If the O ring ever become loosened or damaged then it can begin to leak water. You will know this piece needs to be replaced when you see water leaking out of the handle of the faucet.
2. Withered Washer – The washer piece in a faucet can become worn out with each use. The washer is pushed up against the valve seat every time the faucet is opened up. If this piece is damaged or broken, you will notice dripping around the spout of the faucet. This is one of the most common reasons for why your faucet may be leaking.
3. Loosey Goosey – The pieces that make up any type of fixture can become loose if it is used frequently enough. The adjusting ring and packing nuts can also become loose if the faucet is used a lot over time. The handle of the faucet will begin to leak water if these pieces are loose or stripped. Tighten or replace the rings and nuts to fix this problem.
4. It’s Not the Faucet – Your faucet may be brand new and in pristine condition; so why is your faucet still leaking? The plumbing in your house could be to blame. A broken pipe and increase water pressure could lead to the faucet experiencing an occasional leak. Contact a plumber and have your home’s plumbing inspected if the faucet isn’t to blame for the leaks.

Faucets can leak for many reasons, but these are usually the most common ones. Once you can diagnose the problem correctly then you’ll be able to fix it properly. If you’re having a hard time troubleshooting the problem, contact the experts at SameDay Heating & Air. Our professional technicians will have your faucet or plumbing fixed, saving you water and money! To learn more, or to schedule an appointment, give us a call at (801) 726-3329.

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