Fixing Leaky Faucets
Because there is no apparent imminent damage happening when you have a faucet leak, it is easy to ignore. Other than the audible sound of dripping, leaks can go easily unnoticed. Even the elevated utility costs are easily overlooked since the costs are accrued only on monthly bills.
However, delaying the hassle of repairing simple leaks is never worth it in the long run. Added costs from failing to make simple repairs can cause unexpected and shocking amounts of damage.
In this article, you will learn all about faucet leaks and their true cost. Conserving freshwater and saving money on bills are only a couple of benefits when it comes to having your leaking faucets repaired.
Signs You Need Faucet Leak Services
Faucet leaks are wasteful and can make a home feel uninviting and uncared for, therefore every attempt should be made to fix a leaking faucet as soon as you notice it occurring. While most people think of a dripping faucet as a textbook example of a faucet leak, leaks can occur in other places around the faucet.One common location of faucet leaks is around the base where the faucet makes contact with the sink basin. Water can seep from inside the faucet down to the basin and leak down under the sink. These leaks are often only noticeable by moisture on the inside of the cabinet or on the floor below the sink basin.
Another common faucet leak takes place on the hose connections to the faucet. Hoses can leak at the fittings that attach on the faucet itself or on the cut-off valves on the wall. These leaks are also not often apparent until you look under the sink.
Plumbing Service to Fix Faucets
Depending on the type of leak, a plumber may decide to repair or replace the faucet. Most valve stems, O-rings, valve seats, hoses, and washers are replaceable and can usually be done quickly and cheaply. However, some manufacturers require more complex repairs or damage could be extensive enough to require replacement of the fixture.
Mineral build-up is a common culprit of faucet leaks. If mineral scale is a continuous problem that damages your faucets, a plumber may recommend installing a water softener to protect your plumbing fixtures.
The Cost of a Leaky Faucet
While many people only consider the cost of repairs when considering fixing a leaky faucet, it is important to take into account the cost of lost water and the cost of potential damage. A steady leak in a standard faucet can leak up to 10,000 gallons of freshwater per year.That’s enough to fill a residential pool! This can add hundreds of dollars to your water bill, especially if you are running a water softener or the leak is happening on the hot water side of a faucet. Unrepaired water leaks can also rack up potentially thousands of dollars in repair costs from damage to surrounding structures.
Since leaks aren’t always apparent, water can pass down into cupboards and cabinets and cause problems. Constant moisture from leaking water can rot wooden structural components, buckle floors, and encourage mold growth on the inside of wall cavities. The cost to repair these can be disastrous.
About Gene Johnson Heating, Cooling, Plumbing and Electrical
Gene Johnson Heating, Cooling, Plumbing and Electrical is a family-owned and operated plumbing contractor serving the Seattle, WA area since 1976. With an emphasis on quality workmanship, you can trust them with any of your residential plumbing needs.
