Leaky faucets are a common plumbing issue that can not only be frustrating, but also costly in terms of wasted water and higher utility bills. A leaky faucet occurs when the water flow through the faucet is not properly sealed, causing water to leak out. The main cause of a leaky faucet is worn out washers or O-rings.
A washer is a very small flat piece of rubber or plastic that is located at the base of the faucet handles. This creates a tight seal against the valve seat, preventing water from leaking out of the faucet. Over time, washers can become worn out or damaged leading to a leaky faucet. This is a very common problem which can be done DIY but if you are not good with tools, we recommend calling professional plumber as it can get more complicated if its not done properly leading to additional damage and costly water bills.
O-rings are small rubber rings that are located on the valve stem of the faucet. Their purpose is to create a tight seal between the valve stem and the faucet body, preventing water from leaking out of the faucet. Like washers, O-rings can become worn out or damaged gradually, leading to a leaky faucet. At hydro plumbing services, we understand this problem well and we promise long term repair guarantee if done through our company.
A leaking faucet can be frustrating to deal with, not to mention the higher water bills. According to the Australian Environmental Protection Agency, a leaky faucet that drips at the rate of one drip per second can waste more than 11,356 litres of water per year.
Compression & Cartridge Faucets
Fixing a leaky faucet is a relatively simple task at Hydro plumbing services. This can be done by a homeowner with basic plumbing knowledge, or for expert advice be sure to call us. The first step is to identify the type of faucet you have. There are two main types of faucets: compression faucets and cartridge faucets. Compression faucets have two handles and use washers to create a seal, while cartridge faucets have one handle and use a cartridge to create a seal.
To fix a compression faucet, the handle will need to be removed and the washer to be located and visible. Once located, it can be replaced with a new washer. This is a very simple task that can be done with a wrench and a replacement part however it is always important to use an experienced plumber to conduct this job to prevent damage to the external fitting and have it working as new again.
To replace a cartridge faucet, the cartridge should be removed from the faucet. Once cartridge is removed replace it with a new one, other specialist plumber tools are required for the job.
In case you are not comfortable with DIY, it is always better to call a professional plumber. They have the knowledge, skills and tools to quickly diagnose and fix a leaky faucet and can also check for any underlying issues that may be causing the leak.
It is important to fix a leaky faucet as well as prevent leaks in the future. Ways you can do this include checking your faucets regularly for leaks, replacing worn out washers or o-rings and ensuring that your faucet is properly tightened and sealed. Another way to prevent a leaky faucet is by installing low-flow faucets in your home. Low-flow faucets use less water than traditional faucets which can help reduce water waste and save you money on your water bill.
In conclusion, leaky faucets are common plumbing issue that can be frustrating and costly. This can be avoided easily by simply looking for the signs of a leaky faucet and performing regular maintenance. It is also important to keep in mind that as your plumbing system ages, over time it will need more frequent maintenance and repairs.
