What Causes a Faucet to Leak?

Here at Trust Rooter, we are a professional plumbing service specializing in faucet leak repair and faucet replacement. In this article, we will outline some of the causes of leaky faucets and how to fix them.

Corroded Valve Seat

If your faucet is leaking from the spout, then a corroded valve seat could be the culprit. The valve seat acts as the connection between the faucet and the spout, creating a tight seal and controlling water flow. Mineral deposits in water can corrode the valve seat and cause all kinds of leaking problems. To fix a corroded valve seat, you’ll have to disassemble the faucet and scrub away the corrosion. If the valve seat is extensively corroded or damaged beyond repair, you may need to replace it.

Issues With The O-Ring

A malfunctioning O-ring is one of the biggest causes of leaking faucets. An O-ring is a small disc attached to the stem crew to hold the handle of a faucet in place. This disc can become loose or wear out over time due to regular use, causing a faucet to leak around the handle area. If your faucet is leaking around the handle, a bad O-ring is likely the cause. Replacing the damaged O-ring will fix the problem.

Bad Seals

Inlet and outlet seals are critical components of a faucet’s mechanism. Much like valve seats, these seals can get damaged due to excessive water pressure and sediment buildup. You can replace worn seals if you’re a skilled and experienced do-it-yourselfer, but it is advised to hire a reputable plumber to help you out.

Incorrect Washer Installation

If washers, especially those connecting the faucet's handle, are not properly installed or have degraded, they can allow water to leak through the handle area.

Worn Out Cartridge

Faucets with cartridges that have worn out over time may experience drips or leaks as the cartridge fails to effectively control the water flow.

Loose Parts

Loose components within the faucet's assembly, such as screws or nuts, can create gaps that water can seep through, leading to leaks. Tightening these components will do the trick to fix the leaky faucet.

It’s Time To Fix That Leaky Faucet

You should never ignore a leaky faucet, no matter how minor the problem seems. Apart from causing your water bill to spike, a leaky faucet can provide an ideal environment for mold and mildew to thrive.

While faucet leak repair may appear to be a simple task, it’s not as easy as it looks. The entire faucet assembly can be complicated to maneuver if you’re not a skilled plumber. It’s a good idea to leave this job to experienced plumbers. If you’re in need of professional faucet leak repair or faucet replacement, reach out to the dependable plumbers at Trust Rooter. Our plumbers have the expertise, experience, and state-of-the-art tools to get the job done right the first time.