Never ignore a leaky faucet. A dripping tap can waste about one litre of water every hour. Over a week, that’s about enough water to fill a bathtub. And not only does it waste a precious resource, but it’ll also result in increased water bills, anywhere from $6 to $20 per month. But you need to know where the water is coming from to fix a dripping tap. Here are some common causes of a leaky faucet.
Leaks from the faucet The most common leak you’ll find is from the faucet itself. You may see water trickling or dripping after you shut off the handles. If ignored, a slow drip can get worse over time, and the steady drops can leave a stain on your sink. Faucets consist of many rubber O-rings and soft plastic washers, which can wear out, harden, or disintegrate over time. A leaky faucet indicates you need to replace one or more rings or washers. Faucets also have an internal cartridge that you may need to replace. Always use parts from the original manufacturer to ensure a correct fit. Leaks from the faucet base Leaks from the base of the faucet are more challenging to detect because the water often splashes around that area during regular use. Ensure the area is dry to check for leaks, then turn on the taps. Look for water seeping through the faucet base. A leak indicates the O-ring that fits between the spout and the base has dried up or cracked and must be replaced. Leaks under the sink There are several places to check if you notice water on the floor or the shelves under your sink. The leak could be where the water-supply hoses go into the faucet, or there may be a leak in the drain unit and P-trap. Leaks from the water supply may be a faulty valve you need to replace. Hoses also come loose and need to be tightened. You may need to add some plumber’s tape – sometimes called PTFE tape – to the thread. The hoses also have O-rings that could be cracked or dry and need replacement. Alternatively, water may also be coming from the drain. Ensure all the connections between the drain, P-trap, and sewer line are tight. If the leak continues, you may have to replace the entire drain and P-trap unit. Residential plumbing services in the GTA At Black Forest Plumbing, our technicians can inspect and repair leaky faucets, running toilets, and clogged drains. We’re also on call 24/7 for any plumbing emergency. We serve residential and commercial customers throughout the Greater Toronto Area. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.