A faucet is a crucial part of your residential plumbing system, allowing you to easily access water at any tap in the home with just the turn of a handle. When a faucet leaks, it's not only an annoyance of constant dripping, but it can make your water bill spike. The first step to fixing a leaky faucet is to understand what's causing the issue. The following are three common causes discussed in detail.

Common Causes of Leaky Faucets

1. A Loose or Worn O-Ring

The stem screw is the part of a faucet that holds the handle in place. An O-ring is a circular piece of rubber that fits around the stem screw to provide a tight seal and prevent water from leaking as it passes through. Some sinks contain only one O-ring, while others may have multiple O-rings. Over time, the rubber can lose its elasticity and begin to loosen or wear down, resulting in leaks.

2. A Damaged Valve Seat

The valve seat connects the faucet and the spout. It's not uncommon for water-sediment to build up in the valve seat, causing it to corrode and leak. These leaks are usually seen around the spout. To prevent this issue, a residential plumbing professional can clean and flush out the valve seat and effectively remove the sediment.

3. A Faulty Cartridge

Most bathroom faucets have two cartridges, one for hot water and one for cold. The cartridge is a valve that opens and closes with the handle to control the water flow into the spout of the faucet. In most cases, a cartridge breaks down and starts to leak when the O-ring inside needs to be replaced, or there is a clog within the cartridge’s passages. Hiring a residential plumbing professional will ensure the cartridge is replaced with the correct make and model.

When you need a leaky faucet fixed quickly, easily, and without stress, trust GNG Plumbing and The Hardware Store. Since 1986, they have served the Orange Beach and Fort Morgan, AL, region. They offer comprehensive residential plumbing services, including faucet and toilet repair, grinder station maintenance, and installation of water heaters and other fixtures. Call (251) 974-5630 or visit them online to request an estimate.