A dripping faucet in your bathroom or kitchen is more than just an annoyance. It can increase your water consumption and drive up utility bills. Waiting too long to deal with the issue can also result in the need for costly plumbing repairs. Here are a few of the most common causes of dripping faucets and how to resolve them.

Why Do You Have a Leaky Faucet?

1. Worn Washer or Cartridge

Depending on the type of faucet you have, the dripping issue might lie with the washer or cartridge. Washers are flat rubber discs that become damaged due to the constant friction with the valve seat. As the washer wears down with the repetitive motions, water will eventually drip through. The same issue can occur with cartridge faucets; if you see dripping from the spout, the cartridge will likely need to be replaced. 

2. Damaged O-Ring

An O-ring is a rubber disc designed to secure the handle of the faucet. If the drips are occurring near the handle of the faucet, this is a sign that the issue lies within the O-ring. Over time, it will loosen due to the constant wear and tear and allow water to leak through at the base of the handle. This is one of the most common causes of leaks and can be repaired by having a professional replace the O-ring. 

3. High Water Pressure

If your faucet is dripping during specific times of the day, this is likely due to water pressure rather than a faulty part. High water pressure can impede water flow and lead to a backup, eventually causing it to leak through faucets or cracks in the plumbing. Adjust your home’s main water valve to reduce the water pressure. 

If you need to schedule plumbing repairs for your leaky faucet, turn to the team at Bernie Buchner, Inc. For more than 60 years, this locally owned and operated company has specialized in a variety of plumbing and HVAC services for residential and commercial customers throughout La Crosse, WI. They are also available 24/7 for emergency repairs. Give them a call today at (608) 784-9000 to schedule an appointment with a technician, or visit their website to learn more about their full list of services.