A leaking faucet can be a significant annoyance, especially when you’re trying to sleep at night. Constant leaks also increase your water bill and cause excessive wear on the plumbing parts that make up your sink, which adds to repair costs. The first step towards fixing a faulty faucet is to determine the underlying cause, a few of which are below.

Why Is the Faucet Leaking?

1. Worn Washer

The washer in your faucet undergoes friction whenever you operate the fixture. Often, this is the first component to break down, which can then lead to a steady dripping. This part is at the end of the stem and seals the valve when it closes, preventing water from escaping. Replacing this part usually resolves the leak unless there are other issues.

2. Corrosion on the Valve Seat

The valve seat serves as a connection between the faucet and the spout. Minerals in water can collect around the valve and corrode it. As the valve seat loses its integrity, leaks will occur, as it cannot properly hold water. You can prevent corrosion by cleaning the valve seat regularly, which removes the sediment buildup.

3. Loose O-Ring 

Leaks can also originate in the faucet handles. The O-ring, which is a small disc within the knob, can loosen over time due to continuous use. There may also be problems with the set screw that holds the O-ring in place. In either case, replacing these parts should prevent handle leaks from occurring.

4. Faulty Inlet & Outlet Seals

Sediment accumulation can also impact other parts of your faucets. The inlet and outlet seals control the flow of water, letting it into the faucet or out of the spout, respectively. When minerals corrode them, they will break down and allow water to enter the fixture. While you can clean intact seals to improve function, you must replace broken seals. 

If you need quality replacement plumbing parts to fix a leaky faucet, contact Withamsville Winnelson in Cincinnati, OH. They supply homeowners and professional plumbing companies with the parts they need to make repairs. They stock many essential plumbing parts, including valves, pipes, pumps, sealants, and tools. They also provide appliances like water heaters and toilets. View their product listings online for more information. You can also call (513) 753-1121 to speak with a friendly representative.