A leaky faucet presents a greater problem than it may seem at first sight. While it may be relatively easy to diagnose and repair the leaky faucet, if you ignore the leak, serious negative consequences may ensue. The EPA indicates that the most prominent plumbing issue is a leaking faucet. Promptly repairing a leak can save nearly 10% on water consumption. You could potentially be wasting hundreds of gallons of water a month by ignoring the problem. Not only is the leak costing you money, but it is harmful to the environment as well.
The 5 main causes for a leaky faucet are the following:
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O Ring Issues
The O Ring is a small ring in the stem of the faucet that holds the faucet handle in place. When the O Ring becomes worn, leaks may occur in the faucet or near the handle. Many times the homeowner can replace the O Ring, if he has some basic plumbing knowledge
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Corrosion and Sediment
If sediment builds up within the faucet this can cause corrosion that results in a leak. Any leak around the spout area of the faucet may mean there is corrosion in the faucet connections. By cleaning out the sediment on a regular basis, you may prevent a corrosion problem.
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Faulty Washer
An ill-fitting washer may also cause a leak. The washer withstands a lot of pressure which leads to wear and tear over time. Both worn washers and improperly installed washers are common reasons for a leaky faucet.
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Worn Out Seals
Again, sediment plays a role in the deterioration of inlet and outlet seals. You should clear the sediment regularly, or you may replace the seal, in order to resolve the issue of a dripping faucet.
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Loose Parts/ Broken Plumbing
The fixture may be defective, have loose parts, or even broken plumbing, in some other location of the system. This is not common, but can occur at times, to cause a leak.
Whatever the cause of the leaking faucet, the appropriate solution should be applied to save water, money, and your plumbing fixtures. By fixing the leak in a timely manner, it is beneficial to you, as well as to the environment. A dripping faucet may seem like a minor problem, or just an annoyance, but by repairing the leak promptly major consequences may be avoided.
At Zeek Plumbing, we are here to help you with all of your residential and commercial plumbing needs. To schedule an appointment please visit www.zeekplumbing.com or give us a call at 866-635-0200. You can also follow us on Facebook!
