Mysterious Dripping Noises: Identifying and Fixing Leaky Faucets

Leaky faucets annoy a lot, especially at night time. In a way we can say, if annoyance had a sound leaky faucets would rank number two. Obviously mosquito buzzing near your ear always will be the first definition of what is an annoyance. Understanding the common causes and solutions for leaky taps can save you time, frustration, and money as well. In this article, we have written the common reasons why drippy faucets persist and also we’ve added a step-by-step guide to fix them completely.
 

The Leaky Faucet’s Impact
 

As per the EPA, household leaks can waste around 1 trillion gallons of water every year nationwide.  An average household would leak around 10,000 gallons of water every year. This doesn’t just stop accounting for your water bill, but it also triggers environmental consequences.
 

Types  of Faucets:

The Faucets are widely categorized under 4 sections, namely:

1. Cartridge Faucet
2. Compression Faucet
3. Ceramic Faucet
4. Ball Faucet

Causes of Dripping Faucets

• Mineral Buildup: Minerals from hard water often brush the surface of your faucets, the accumulated minerals cause the parts to wear out and become less effective as well.
• Decaying Washers and Gaskets: Worn-out washers and gaskets are the biggest culprits behind these leaky taps.

Magnifying the Source of the Drip

Before you can fix a leaky faucet, you need to identify the source of the drip. Here are some tips:

• If you’ve used the faucet recently, then the water dripping can be the residual water draining from the faucet.
• A partially clogged drain can often cause the tap to drip water one by one, and the sound is intense here.
• If there’s a temperature change, then a minor crack in your pipe could be the culprit behind the leakage as well.

Tools You Require To Fix The Leaky Tap:

To properly repair your leaky faucet, you will need the following tools:

• Adjustable wrench
• Replacement O-rings
• Replaceable Washers
• A good screwdriver
• WD-40
   

Primary Causes for the Leak:
 

• Cartridge Faucet: Replace any worn-out O-rings, in some cases you must replace the cartridge itself.
• Compression Faucet: Replace the seals and washers which are at the handles.
• Ceramic Faucet: Here consider replacing the ceramic discs or the seals if they are damaged.
• Ball Faucet: Consider replacing the springs, seals, and the ball mechanism as well.
   

When to Consider a Professional?

If you’ve followed all the above-mentioned steps, and if you find the faucets are still leaking, then it is time to call a professional plumber. An expert’s entry is very well appreciated if you are unable to pinpoint and fix the faucet on your own.
 

Conclusion:

Leaky Faucets seem to be a problem faced by many, however, there are fixes for this as well. Understanding the model of the faucet, and the causes for its common lean can significantly repair the leaks. If you find that you can’t do a DIY on fixing the leaky pipe on your own, then consider contacting a plumbing service.