Why Is My Faucet Leaking? | Common Plumbing Issues

Why Is My Faucet Leaking? Explained

Sink faucet with a drip about to fall off

Leaky faucets are not only a nuisance but can also rack up water bills and wreak havoc on other appliances from water damage. Your faucets must be working correctly to allow you to complete various daily tasks. What’s causing your leaky faucet is not always evident, though, and it’s essential to familiarize yourself with common causes to determine the best solution.

Below, we discuss some typical reasons your faucet might be leaking, what further problems they can lead to, and when to schedule service with an expert.

Are you facing a leaky faucet? Call Verne Ellsworth & Hann at (216) 932-9755 to schedule a service!

5 Reasons Your Bathroom or Kitchen Faucet Is Leaking

Whether in your bathroom or kitchen, a leaking faucet must be addressed ASAP. Unfortunately, even minor issues can lead to unforeseen leaks. When a leak strikes, a few potential causes to look into include:

Water Pressure

A telltale sign that a leak is due to issues with your water pressure includes sporadic dripping either on its own or when you maneuver the handles a certain way. Also, if the pressure of the leak fluctuates when another fixture is turned on, it’s likely because of improper water pressure.

A Damaged Cartridge

Cartridges are responsible for keeping your water regulated. If this piece is damaged or loose, it won’t be able to properly hold back the water released, resulting in leaking.

Broken Washers

Another common cause of faucet leaks is broken washers. Washers are designed to rest against the valve seat, which wears it down over time. If your washers are broken or worn out, they can’t keep water from leaking from the spout.

Malfunctioning O-Ring

O-rings are used to keep the faucet handles in place. If the O-ring goes bad or comes loose, it can lead to water leaking from the faucet handles.

Valve Seat

If the valve seat is corroded or there is an abundance of sediment built up, it can lead to drips leaking from the faucet’s spout.

Problems Caused by a Leaky Faucet

As mentioned, leaky faucets are not only annoying, but they can also lead to other issues if not addressed promptly. Some of the additional problems you can face include:
  • High water bills
  • Wasted water
  • Mold and mildew
  • Water-damaged appliances
  • Rotten cabinets, flooring, walls, etc.
  • Rusty faucets or sinks
  • Cracks in your home’s structure

Schedule Plumbing Repairs With Verne & Ellsworth Hann

Since 1907, Verne & Ellsworth Hann has established top-notch faucet services for our Northeast Cleveland community. One of the oldest businesses in Cleveland Heights, we are a trusted company that achieves desired results and outstanding customer service.

Our team consists of licensed and insured technicians who are committed to professionalism and integrity. We have proudly received the Angi Super Service Award and Best of the Heights Award, so you can rest easy knowing we’ve got your back!

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Why Choose Verne & Ellsworth Hann?

5 Generations of Hann Family Experience
  • One of the oldest family-run businesses in Cleveland Heights
  • Angi Super Service Award and Best of the Heights Award
  • Outstanding customer service
  • Committed to professionalism and integrity
  • Licensed and insured technicians