3 Tips On How To Fix A Dripping Faucet
A leaking faucet can be a nuisance and an expense to homeowners in Centerton, AR. The dripping sound alone is bothersome enough to do something about it. There are a few things to know before you can fix it, such as the reason for the leak and the parts you will need.
A leak could mean a task as minimal as replacing a washer, or as laborious as replacing an entire faucet. Children and cats can be the culprit of faucets leaking and causing a multitude of damage. Here are three things to know before fixing a dripping faucet:
Know What Type of Faucet You Have Installed
Different types of faucets call for different solutions. The style types include:
- Ceramic disk faucet
- Ball faucet
- Cartridge faucet
- Compression faucet
These fall under the traditional, contemporary, and transitional categories. Identifying the style of the faucet you are working with is important for knowing what parts to purchase.
For example, a ball faucet has a different working mechanism than a cartridge faucet. Knowing the difference will save you extra trips to the home improvement store. Being prepared can only help lower your service costs in the long run.
Identify the Cause of the Leak
A leaking faucet can have various causes. A damaged cartridge or O-ring would only mean replacing these parts. Mineral buildup inside of the structure can cause it to work less efficiently at stopping the water flow.
Here, you may be able to take it apart and clean the minerals away. Sometimes, its parts are so corroded from water flow, they are irreplaceable and call for the entire structure to be replaced. Although this process can be complicated, it's always okay to ask for assistance.
Replace the Parts or the Entire Faucet
Once you have identified the type and cause of your leaking faucet, you can take the next steps to fix it. Be sure to stop the water, and plug the drain before taking the faucet apart so that no nuts or bolts fall through it. If you need to replace the entire faucet, be sure to research which style you would like installed and its working parts for an easier fix in the future.
Any leak in your bathroom should not be left unattended in Centerton, AR. A fixed leak means less money spent on your water and sewage bill. It also prevents water waste and damage in your home. Also, a helpful tip is turning your faucet on for periods of time can prevent frozen pipes in the winter.