Why That Little Drip Adds Up Fast
When you think of water waste, you probably picture a broken pipe or a running toilet. But a bathroom sink faucet dripping just once per second can waste over 3,000 gallons per year, enough to fill more than 60 bathtubs. Multiply that by the number of homes with minor leaks, and it’s easy to see why the EPA estimates that household leaks waste nearly 1 trillion gallons annually in the U.S.
Even slow drips add up. If your dripping kitchen faucet leaks just 10 drops per minute, you’ll lose around 350 gallons a year. That’s water you’re paying for without even using it.
More importantly, untreated leaks can lead to bigger problems down the line. Moisture buildup can lead to mold, mildew, or corrosion, especially around under-sink cabinets and countertops.
What Causes a Leaky Faucet?
There are a few common culprits behind a leaky faucet repair job. Most often, the problem lies with worn-out or damaged internal components. These include:
- Worn Washers: Compression faucets use rubber washers to create a seal. Over time, these wear down from constant friction.
- O-Ring Issues: O-rings create a tight seal on cartridge and ball faucets. If they loosen or wear out, they’ll cause a leak near the handle.
- Corroded Valve Seat: The valve seat connects the faucet to the spout. Water minerals or corrosion can wear it down, causing dripping.
- Loose Parts: Screws or fittings inside the faucet can loosen over time, letting water escape.
Knowing the source helps you understand how to fix a dripping kitchen faucet or bathroom tap. However, diagnosing and fixing the issue yourself isn’t always as simple as it sounds, especially with modern fixture designs.
DIY Tips: How to Stop a Leaky Faucet
If you’re comfortable with tools and want to try a quick fix, here’s how to stop a leaky faucet with some basic steps:
- Turn Off the Water: Shut off the water supply under the sink to avoid a mess.
- Plug the Drain: Use a sink plug or rag to prevent small parts from falling in.
- Disassemble the Faucet: Use a screwdriver or wrench to remove the handle and take the faucet apart.
- Inspect and Replace Worn Parts: Look for damaged washers, O-rings, or cartridges and replace them.
- Reassemble and Test: Put the faucet back together and turn the water back on to see if the leak has stopped.
If the leak persists, or if you’re dealing with corroded parts or high-end faucets, it’s better to call a professional. Attempting complex repairs without the right tools or knowledge can lead to more damage or stripped components.
When to Call a Pro for Faucet Repairs
Sometimes, leaky faucet repair needs more than just a DIY approach. Here are a few signs that it’s time to bring in a licensed plumber:
- You’ve tried replacing parts, but the leak continues.
- The faucet is old and corroded, especially in hard water areas.
- The leak is coming from underneath the sink or involves pipes.
- You notice low water pressure or other plumbing issues.
For homeowners and property managers, timely repairs prevent expensive water damage, reduce waste, and improve long-term performance. In many cases, replacing the entire fixture may be the most cost-effective choice, especially if it’s outdated or inefficient.
Professional plumbers have the experience to identify the root cause, repair or replace parts quickly, and ensure everything’s working safely and efficiently.
Stop the Drip for Good – Call Brad B Plumbing Services Today
Don’t let a leaky faucet repair become a bigger problem! Whether you’re dealing with a bathroom sink faucet dripping, a dripping kitchen faucet, or you’re not sure how to fix a dripping kitchen faucet, the team at Brad B Plumbing Services is ready to help.
We serve homeowners and property managers across Austin, TX, with fast, affordable faucet repairs done right the first time. You don’t have to live with the sound, or the waste, of a constant drip.
Call (512) 402-6901 today to schedule your faucet repair or inspection. We’ll make sure your fixtures are sealed tight, your water bill stays low, and your plumbing stays leak-free.