Dripping faucets are a common plumbing problem in homes and businesses, and they can waste hundreds of gallons of water over time. They can also disturb your peace and trigger mold growth. If you’ve been wondering why your faucets won’t stop dripping, you’re not alone. This is one of the common concerns we get at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Wichita. Today, we’ll go through the common reasons why faucets keep dripping and when to consider faucet replacement.
Worn-Out Washers
In compression faucets, the rubber washer, which creates the seal, can wear out over time and cause a constant drip. The washer seals the water flow within a faucet, thereby preventing drips and leaks. Faucet washers wear out due to constant physical friction against the valve seat when turning the handle. As these rubber seals wear out over time, they no longer create a watertight seal.
Replacing a faucet washer is a fairly simple process that entails removing the handle and valve stem and then replacing the deteriorating washer with a new one. However, there’s some expertise and skill needed to complete these steps successfully. If you’re not comfortable with the process, seek help from a local plumbing repair service.
Damaged O-Rings
This small ring holds the handle in place; when it wears out, water can seep from the handle base, especially when the faucet is on. You may also notice a squeaky or stiff handle and water pressure issues when dealing with a faulty O-ring. Just like the washer, replacing a damaged O-ring is a fairly simple and straightforward process, although there are scenarios where you may need to hire a skilled plumber in Wichita, KS.
Start by shutting off the water supply and disassemble the spout or handle using an Allen wrench or screwdriver. Remove the failing O-rings and slide the new ones into place and reassemble the faucet. If you need help from a professional plumber, call the pros at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Wichita.
Faulty Cartridge or Valve
Modern faucets often rely on cartridges or ceramic disc valves to control water flow. These components are designed to last longer than traditional washers, but they’re not indestructible.
If the cartridge becomes cracked, clogged with mineral deposits, or worn out, it may not fully shut off the water. This leads to dripping even when the handle is tightly closed. Reach out to a professional plumber to help you replace the faulty cartridge or valve. Replacing the cartridge is usually the most effective solution in this case.
High Water Pressure
Excessively high water pressure can also cause a faucet to drip. When the pressure inside your pipes is too strong, it can prevent the faucet from sealing properly.
You might notice that the faucet only drips at certain times, such as late at night when water usage is low and pressure increases. Installing a pressure regulator can help resolve this issue and protect your entire plumbing system. It’s important to watch out for pressure changes and take action before it’s too late. If your water pressure exceeds 80 PSI, reach out to a local plumbing repair service for help.
Do You Need Faucet Replacement Service? Contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Wichita Today
Dripping faucets are a pesky problem that many homeowners face, often leading to wasted water. If your faucets have seen better days or won’t stop causing problems, reach out to Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Wichita for faucet replacement service. Installing new faucets will not just save you water; it will also improve your home’s aesthetics and add value to your home. For reliable faucet replacement, feel free to contact the experts at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Wichita.
