Go Back

Here's How You Could Handle a Leaky Faucet

Posted on February 12, 2016 by

How to Deal With a Leaky Faucet

Ever hear the drip of a leaky faucet? Doesn't sound like much. But, even a faucet springing water one drop at a time can significantly add to the water bill of your Nashville home.

Leaky faucet dripping water, illustrating common plumbing issue related to faucet repairs and maintenance.So you should stop the leak right away. But, what if simply checking that the handle is turned all the way to off doesn't work? You can't leave it alone because the dripping could come faster and become more expensive over time.

Determine How Serious the Issue Is

The solution could be simple. It could be a nut at the base of the handle which needs tightening. The most common issue is that the seat washer or o-ring in the handle has its rubber seal worn down and needs replacing.

If the leak still is continuing, then it is time to start disassembling the faucet.

The Different Faucet Types

Figure out which kind you have first. Commonly, there are four different faucets that get listed.

  • Compression – The most common type, it has two screw handles for hot and cold.
  • Cartridge – Has a single, central swiveling arm with a cartridge and stem built in.
  • Ceramic disk – Similar to cartridge, but with a ceramic disk in place of the cartridge.
  • Ball type – A ball bearing is in place of a cartridge or ceramic disk.

Checking the Faucet

For a compression faucet, unscrew each handle. Then, pull out the stem allowing for you to check the o-ring and seat washers to make sure they are still in good working order. If not, replace them the exact right fit of seat washers and/or o-rings. The fit needs to be right or else the leaking will continue or even become more pronounced.

For the other faucet types, sometimes you need replacement kits. It is possible that a Nashville professional could also be needed for these more complex faucets.

Likewise, if replacing the seat washers on compression faucets hasn't stopped the leak, then it is possible there is a more serious plumbing issue. If that is the case, then it is better to leave such matters in more professional hands.

If you do think the leak is part of a more serious issue, then contact Green Hills Plumbing at (615) 383-3339, located in Nashville, TN.