Why Is My Faucet Dripping? Common Causes And Quick Fixes

A dripping faucet is often mistaken to be a minor issue but has been proven to be one of the major water wasters in homes. As a homeowner, it’s important to understand the common causes of a leaky faucet and how to address the root causes. In this article, Neighborhood Plumbing walks you through the common culprits behind dripping faucets and the solutions. If you’re dealing with persistent leaks, it’s best to consult a Professional Plumber in Pittsburgh to ensure the problem is resolved effectively and efficiently.

Worn-Out Washer

Ever asked yourself how faucets stop the flow of water when they are turned off? Well, compression faucets press a washer against the valve seat to stop the water from flowing. For ceramic disc faucets, the discs align when you turn off the faucet to block the water flow. If the washer or ceramic discs are faulty in any way, your faucets will leak water, even when they are turned off.

How to Replace Faucet Washers and Ceramic Discs

This is a fairly simple process that you can undertake on your own as long as you follow the right steps. Use a screwdriver to remove the handle screw so that you can access the packing nut, a component that creates a watertight seal around the valve stem. Loosen the packing nut and pull out the stem assembly to access the washer at the bottom of the stem. Remove the faulty washer and replace it with a new one. Once it’s secured in place, reassemble the faucet and turn on the water supply. The process of replacing ceramic discs is basically the same as replacing faucet washers. The only difference is that you’ll be replacing the ceramic discs within the cartridge instead of the washer on the stem. If you encounter any difficulties, call a professional plumber in Pittsburgh for help.

Loose or Damaged O-Rings

Another reason why your faucet may be dripping is a damaged O-ring. An O-ring is a rubber ring that creates a seal between different parts of the faucet. Just like washers, O-rings can fail due to constant use or old age. A faulty O-ring won’t be able to create the watertight seal necessary to prevent leaks. 

How to Replace O-Rings

The process of replacing O-rings is much simpler compared to replacing washers. First, unscrew the handle cap using a screwdriver and remove the handle. Next, remove the faulty O-rings and place the new ones in their place. Once you’re done and have ensured the O-rings are seated properly, reassemble the faucet in reverse order of disassembly. However, note that the process may vary depending on the make and model of your faucet. If you need professional help, contact a skilled plumber in Pittsburgh.

Worn-Out Cartridge

Your faucets may develop a leak resulting from a worn-out cartridge that controls water flow and temperature. If your faucet is leaking around the handle or at the base, the culprit is more likely to be a faulty cartridge. To replace a worn-out cartridge in a faucet, you’ll need to disassemble the faucet, remove the old cartridge, and install a new one in the faucet body. Call a professional plumber in Pittsburgh if you need assistance. Avoid using excessive force when removing or installing parts; otherwise, you’ll damage the components and incur more expenses.

Need faucet replacement or repair? Contact Neighborhood Plumbing today for professional services. We are a top-rated plumbing company with years of industry experience.

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