Fix Leaks as Soon as Possible
A leaking or dripping faucet may not sound like an emergency to most people. Some may consider a leaky sink faucet more of a minor annoyance than an issue that needs to be resolved quickly. However, it should be taken seriously and fixed immediately. A leaky faucet wastes precious water resources, can cause water damage, and can make a big dent in the household budget by causing a spike in water bills. This blog post will discuss three of the most common causes of a dripping or leaking tap.
Worn Out O-Ring
An O-ring is a rubber gasket in a circular shape, which is placed between two surfaces to create a watertight seal. Over time, O-rings can become worn out due to age, temperature changes, and chemical exposure. As an O-ring wears out, it becomes brittle and can no longer form a tight seal against the two surfaces, leading to dripping near the handle of a fixture as water escapes through the worn-out O-ring.
Many different types of O-rings are available, so choosing one compatible with the fixture in question is essential. Installing the incorrect kind of O-ring in the fixture can lead to premature wear and tear, resulting in frequent dripping near the handle, more water waste, and high water costs.
Worn Out or Corroded Washer
A washer is another important plumbing part that helps create a watertight seal between two portions of pipes. It is a flat disc with a hole in the middle for a bolt to pass through. A worn-out or corroded washer can lead to leaking at the spout of a faucet because it can no longer create a watertight seal.
Washers can become worn out or corroded for various reasons, such as age. Extended exposure to harsh elements, such as chemicals and moisture, can also break down the material and cause it to become worn out or corroded. In addition, washers are typically made of metal, a relatively soft material that can easily be scratched or dented if not correctly cared for. They are subject to friction caused by tightening nuts and bolts, causing them to wear down over time.
Corrosion of the Valve Seat
A valve seat is another round seal that helps prevent liquids from flowing through the spout when the valve is closed. When these seats become corroded, they can no longer provide a tight seal and allow liquids to pass through. This corrosion can occur due to environmental factors such as humidity or when water or other fluids come into contact with metal surfaces, causing them to react and break down over time, resulting in leaking or dripping at the tap’s spout.
In order to prevent leaking faucets from occurring, regular maintenance of valves and pipes should be performed to ensure that corrosion is addressed and stopped as quickly as possible. In addition, proper installation of valve seats can also help prevent corrosion and subsequent leakage.
About Saratoga Plumbing & Heating
Saratoga Plumbing & Heating is a family-owned and operated business serving Saratoga Springs and the surrounding areas since 2011. They provide straightforward pricing, on-time service, and a satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for faucet repair or replacement in Saratoga Springs, NY.