A dripping faucet can waste a lot of water as well as money.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, a faucet that drips once per second can waste 3,000 gallons of water annually.
That’s enough water to take more than 180 showers!
A single dripping faucet can add up to your water bill to $100 per year.
So, if you have a dripping faucet, it’s important to fix it as soon as possible.
Top Causes of a Leaky Faucet
Here are the main causes of a leaky faucet:
The most common cause of a leaky faucet is a worn-out washer. Washers are made of rubber or neoprene and eventually break down and become stiff and cracked. When this happens, they can no longer create a watertight seal, and water will leak out around the handle when the faucet is turned on. Replacing the washer is a relatively easy repair that anyone can do.
2. Loose Packing Nut: A loose packing nut is another
common cause of a leaky faucet. The packing nut is located under the handle and is used to secure the stem. Over time, the packing nut can become loose, allowing water to leak. This easy repair requires tightening the packing nut with a wrench.
3. Damaged O-Ring
The O-ring is a small rubber ring that helps create a watertight seal between the valve seat and the valve stem. Water will leak around the valve stem if the O-ring is damaged or missing. This is an easy repair that requires replacing the O-ring.
4. Faulty Valve Seat
The valve seat is the part of the faucet that the valve sits on. If the valve seat is damaged or corroded, it can cause the valve to leak. This is a more difficult repair that requires replacing the valve seat.
5. Broken Valve
The valve is the part of the faucet that controls the water flow. If the valve is broken, it can cause the faucet to leak. This is a more difficult repair that requires replacing the valve.
6. Improperly Installed Faucets
If your faucet is not installed properly, it can cause leaks. Make sure that your faucet is installed correctly by a professional.
7. Clogged Aerators
The aerator is the small screen at the end of the faucet. It can become clogged with mineral deposits and debris, which can cause the faucet to leak.
How to Fix a Leaky Faucet
Here are the steps you need to follow to fix a leaky faucet:
1. Turn Off the Water Supply
The first thing you need to do is turn off the water supply to the faucet. Locate the shut-off valves under the sink and turn them to the “off” position.
2. Remove the Handle
The next step is to remove the handle. There is a screw that holds the handle in place. Use a screwdriver to remove the screw and pull off the handle.
3. Remove the Bonnet Nut
Under the handle, there is a bonnet nut that holds the valve stem in place. Use a wrench to remove the bonnet nut and pull off the valve stem.
4. Inspect the Parts
Check the parts for damage. If any parts are damaged, you will need to replace them.
5. Clean the Parts
Use a brush to clean the parts. Remove any debris or mineral deposits.
6. Reassemble the Faucet
Once the parts are clean, you can reassemble the faucet. Put the valve stem back in place and screw on the bonnet nut. Replace the handle and screw it in place.
7. Turn on the Water Supply
Turn on the water supply and test the faucet. You may need to replace the washer or O-ring if it is still leaking.
Conclusion
It's essential to fix a dripping faucet ASAP for many reasons. First, a dripping faucet can waste a lot of water over time - as much as 3,000 gallons per year! This is not only bad for your wallet, but it's also bad for the environment. Second, a dripping faucet can signify a bigger problem, such as a leaky pipe. If left unchecked, a leaky pipe can cause extensive damage to your home. Third, a dripping faucet can be annoying! No one wants to hear that constant drip, drip, drip. So if you have a dripping faucet, don't wait - fix it ASAP!
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