Why is my faucet dripping?
There is a device inside of your faucet that controls the on and off of the water. That same device also controls the temperature of the water.
On an older faucet, there is a washer on the end of the stem, and when you turn the handle, it presses down against the seat of the faucet. Newer faucets are often washerless faucets, and there are different parts inside of those faucets that are not washers.
The parts in washerless faucets usually last longer than standard rubber washers, but there are still parts in newer faucets that wear out and need to be replaced. The parts in newer faucets are usually called cartridges.
Cartridges are not universal, they are specific not only to the brand of the faucet but also to the model of the faucet.
If there is water dripping out of the handle or out of the base of the faucet spout, it could be a problem with the O ring. If your faucet has a spout that swings back and forth, any dripping is typically a problem with the O ring.
Sometimes it doesn’t make sense to repair an older faucet, and it makes more sense to replace the faucet.
St Paul Pipeworks carries many of the heavy-duty classic Delta faucets right on their trucks in case one needs to be replaced. If you are having a problem with a leaky faucet or are just looking for service from a quality plumber in the St. Paul and Minneapolis metro area, give St Paul Pipeworks a call today.
Yours Truly,
Matthew Dettwiler
Social Media Manager
FAQs
Q: What causes a faucet to drip?
A: Faucets can drip due to a variety of reasons, including worn-out washers, corroded valve seats, damaged O-rings, or loose parts. These issues can cause leaks in the water supply lines, leading to a dripping faucet.
Q: How can I fix a dripping faucet?
A: The first step in fixing a dripping faucet is to turn off the water supply to the affected faucet. Next, disassemble the faucet and replace any damaged or worn-out parts, such as washers, O-rings, or valve seats. If the problem persists, it may be necessary to call a plumber to help you identify and fix the issue.
Q: Can a dripping faucet wastewater?
A: Yes, a dripping faucet can waste a significant amount of water over time. In fact, a faucet that drips once per second can waste over 3,000 gallons of water per year. Not only is this wasteful, but it can also drive up your water bills.
Q: Can a dripping faucet be a sign of a larger plumbing problem?
A: Yes, a dripping faucet can be a sign of a larger plumbing problem, such as a damaged pipe or a faulty water pressure regulator. It’s important to address the issue promptly to prevent more serious problems from developing.
Q: How can I prevent my faucet from dripping in the future?
A: Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent your faucet from dripping in the future. This includes checking for leaks, replacing damaged parts, and cleaning the faucet regularly to prevent buildup and corrosion. Additionally, it’s important to address any plumbing issues promptly to prevent them from becoming more serious.
