Leaky faucets are annoying and can lead to costly water bills and potential water damage. While some minor leaking may be fixed with a quick DIY repair, knowing when to call a professional plumber is essential.
For any complex or persistent leaks, contact this company, which offers local plumbing services in Phoenix, to ensure a job is done well.
In this article, we’ll discuss identifying and fixing leaky faucets and the importance of seeking help from local plumbing services in Phoenix.
Identifying leaky faucets
To begin repairing a leaky faucet, the first thing you need to do is locate the source of the leak. This may seem obvious, but sometimes leaks can be sneaky and hard to pinpoint. Here are some key signs to look out for:
- Dripping noise: If you notice a persistent dripping sound when the faucet is off, it probably indicates a leak.
- Visual leaks: Check around the base of the faucet and handles for any visible water. You may also notice water stains or discoloration on your sink or cabinets.
- Water meter changes: Check your water meter. If it continues to run even though all faucets are turned off, it indicates a leak somewhere in your plumbing system.
Once you have identified a leaky faucet, the next step is determining what type of faucet you have. This will help you select the appropriate fix and can be helpful information for a professional plumber.
Types of faucets
Faucets typically come in four primary types: compression, cartridge, ceramic disc, and ball. Each type has a different mechanism for controlling water flow and requires specific tools and methods to repair. Here’s how to determine which type of faucet you have:
- Compression faucets feature individual handles for hot and cold water, each with its own valve stem. They are typically found in older homes and require a special seat wrench to replace the worn-out washers.
- Cartridge faucets have a single handle controlling hot and cold water flow. They use a cartridge valve that can be easily replaced with pliers.
- Ceramic disk faucets have a wide cylindrical body with a rotating handle on top. They use two ceramic disks to control water flow and may require special tools to replace the damaged disks.
- Ball-type faucets also have a single handle but use a ball-shaped cap assembly to control water flow. They are more complex and may require specialized repair kits or professional assistance.
Once you’ve identified your faucet type, you can move on to fixing the leak.
Fixing leaky faucets
The specific steps for repairing a leaky faucet will depend on its type, but here are some general guidelines:
- Shut off the water supply: Before starting any repairs, ensure you turn off the water supply to your faucet. This is typically done by rotating a valve located beneath the sink.
- Disassemble the faucet: Use a screwdriver or other necessary tools to remove all parts of the faucet, including handles, spout, and valve stem.
- Replace damaged parts: Inspect all parts for wear and tear and replace any worn-out or damaged components with new ones.
- Reassemble the faucet: Reassemble everything by following the reverse sequence of how you took it apart.
- Turn on the water supply and test: After reassembling your faucet, restore the water supply and inspect for any leaks. If everything appears to be in order, you’ve successfully repaired your leaky faucet!
When to call a professional
While fixing a leaky faucet may seem like a simple task, it’s important to know when it’s time to call in the professionals. Here are some instances where seeking help from local plumbing services in Phoenix would be beneficial:
- If you have attempted DIY repairs but the leak persists or worsens.
- If you have an older home with hard-to-find parts for your faucet type.
- If your faucet leaks due to underlying plumbing issues such as corroded pipes or water pressure problems.
- If you simply don’t have the time or resources to fix the issue yourself.
Knowing when to call a professional can avoid causing more damage and save yourself time and effort.
Conclusion
Leaky faucets might appear to be a small issue, but they can escalate into more serious problems if not handled appropriately. By identifying the leak source, determining your faucet type, and following proper repair methods or seeking help from professionals when needed, you can keep your faucets functioning correctly and prevent costly water bills.