One of the most common causes of a dripping faucet is worn out washers. Washers are rubber or neoprene disks that fit between the valve seat and the valve stem, and help to form a tight seal when you turn off your faucet. Over time, due to regular wear and tear, these washers can become brittle or loose their elasticity, allowing water to seep past them and create a drip. Replacing these washers is usually an easy fix for this problem.
In some cases, mineral deposits from hard water can build up in the faucet's internal valves over time. These deposits can interfere with the way valves close properly, leading to small leaks around the edges. Cleaning these deposits out can help to restore the faucet’s proper functioning.
If your faucet is still leaking despite replacing the washers or cleaning out mineral deposits, you may need to replace the entire valve assembly. This can be a time-consuming job and should only be done by a professional plumber if you are not experienced in plumbing repairs.
No matter what the cause of your dripping faucet is, it's important to take action as soon as possible to fix it. Not only can a dripping faucet waste water and drive up your utility bills, but it can also lead to structural damage over time if left unchecked. Replacing worn washers or valves quickly can save you from more costly repairs down the line.
If you're not sure how to fix your faucet, it's best to call a licensed plumber to help you diagnose and repair the problem. With their expertise, they can resolve your dripping faucet in no time.
At Rancho Heating & Air Plumbing we are backed up by more than 25+ years of experience.