Stop That Drip: Identifying What's Behind Your Leaky Faucet
Did you know? A single dripping faucet can waste up to 3,000 gallons of water per year. That's enough to take 180 showers!
Tick, tick, tick... That persistent dripping sound from your faucet isn't just annoying—it's literally money going down the drain. If you've been ignoring that leaky faucet, you might be surprised to learn how much it's costing you and how simple the fix might be.
The Hidden Cost of That Tiny Drip
What seems like a minor annoyance can have major consequences for both your wallet and the environment. The EPA estimates that household leaks waste nearly 1 trillion gallons of water annually nationwide. A leaky faucet that drips at the rate of one drop per second can waste more than 3,000 gallons per year—that's the equivalent of 180 showers!
By fixing that dripping faucet, you could reduce your water bill by 10% or more. But before you can fix it, you need to know what's causing it.
The 3 Most Common Culprits
Worn-Out O-Ring
A small disc attached to the stem screw that holds the faucet handle in place.
Signs: Dripping near the handle rather than the spout.
DIY Potential: Medium - Requires basic tools and an inexpensive replacement O-ring.
Pro Tip: Take the old O-ring to the hardware store to ensure you get the exact size replacement.
Corroded Valve Seat
The connector between the faucet and the spout that can corrode from mineral buildup.
Signs: Water leaking around the base of the spout.
DIY Potential: Low - Special tools may be required.
Pro Tip: Regular cleaning can prevent this issue. Consider a professional valve seat cleaning during routine maintenance.
Worn Washer
The most common cause of dripping faucets. The rubber washer creates friction each time you use the faucet.
Signs: Dripping from the spout when the faucet is turned off.
DIY Potential: High - Simple fix with basic tools and an inexpensive washer.
Pro Tip: Make sure to get the correct size and type of washer for your specific faucet model.
When to Call a Professional
- If you've replaced the washer but the faucet still drips
- When you can't identify the source of the leak
- If your faucet is more than 15 years old (it might be time for a replacement)
- When you don't have the right tools or aren't comfortable disassembling the faucet
How Plumb-All Can Help
While some Faucet repairs and replacements can be DIY projects, others require professional expertise. At Plumb-All, our team of experienced plumbers can quickly diagnose and fix your dripping faucet, saving you time, frustration, and money in the long run.
With over two decades of experience, our fully licensed, bonded, and insured plumbers provide fast, reliable service at competitive rates. We'll not only fix your immediate issue but can also identify potential problems before they become costly emergencies.
Ready to Stop That Drip For Good?
Call us at 844 PLUMB-ALL
