Questions to Ask Yourself Next Time You Suspect a Faucet Leak
Did you know the EPA estimates that a leaky faucet that drips at the rate of one drip per second can waste more than 3,000 gallons annually? That’s the same water needed to take more than 180 showers!
This staggering statistic is why it’s crucial that you check your faucet regularly for leaks.
Below are some helpful questions to ask yourself the next time you check for leaks. Make sure to dry the area around the faucet before you begin so you can quickly identify any new drips. Also, check underneath the sink for any signs of leakage.
When your faucet is turned off, does water still drip out of the spout?
If the answer is yes, then some (or all) of the internal parts of the faucet may need replacing, depending on your water condition.
If you turn your faucet on, is water leaking around the base as water runs out through the spout?
If you answered yes to this question, then the O-rings surrounding the spout may need to be replaced.
If you turn your faucet on, does water leak or spray out through the top of the handle?
If the answer is yes, replacing the cartridge or stem will fix this. However, the O-ring could also be the culprit and may need replacing in this case.
When your faucet is off, does water leak around the base but not out of the spout?
If yes, the faucet housing itself may have developed a pinhole leak; while this is rare, it can still happen. If this is the case, you could have water under the sink and inside the cabinet. Check all the water supply flex line connections for possible leaks. If the only leak is from the base of the faucet, you will most likely need to replace your faucet.
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