What causes my faucets to drip?
A dripping faucet is not only annoying; it wastes water and can be a very costly problem in. Many things can cause a leaky faucet. A simple little drip can be a sign of a much larger problem. Depending on what is causing that dripping, it could cause damage and cost money in water usage and repairs. A few common issues will cause a leaky faucet. Some are simple, others will need more investigation and a professional plumber to make the necessary repairs and stop the drip. Some problems are easily seen while others are hard to detect.
Worn Out Washers
Worn washers are the most common cause of a leaky faucet. The washers create a seal where pipes or fixtures are connected or joined. These can and do wear out and will cause a leak. Some washers are simple to replace, while others may need the expertise of a qualified plumbing professional to remove and replace.
Broken or Corroded Valves
A valve is located where a faucet is connected to a spout. It allows water to flow or stop flowing as it is turned on or off. During normal use, these valves can become corroded or even break causing a leak. A valve that is broken or corroded is simple to fix, but is best replaced by a professional plumber to insure it is properly seated and will function correctly.
Broken or Worn Seals
There are seals in faucets and other plumbing fixtures. These are typically made of a rubber or plastic compound. With normal usage, the material will wear down and not perform, as they should. Some faucets or fixtures have many of these types of seals that can wear out and these should be replaced regularly to insure proper sealing and prevent leakage.
Pipe Breakage
A broken pipe is the most costly fix for a leak or drip. A pipe can suffer a major breakage event, or it can be a simple crack that will leak and cause faucets to drip. If all other causes of a drip or leak have been investigated and addressed and there is still a leak, a professional plumber will inspect pipes for breakage.
Is your Naperville home in need of a faucet repair? Call Jim Wagner today at (630) 577-9241 for immediate solutions!
