The plumbing system is often straightforward in its design, though it can vary by home. Yet, few home systems lead to so many problems as a matter of course as plumbing. These come mostly in the form of clogs or leaks. Depending on how bad they are, clogs and leaks can make living in the home uncomfortable, expensive, or impossible. Often, problems spring up in the plumbing fixtures, such as faucets. What are the signs that your water faucet needs to be repaired? There are many signs, and here are three of them.
1. The Faucet Leaks
Leaks and drips are common indicators that a faucet may need repair or replacement. The faucet leaks even if the handle is in the off position, and it may leak from the bottom. Though a leak may look trivial, it can cause water bills to spike and cause hundreds of gallons of water a year to go to waste. A faucet that leaks from the bottom of the stem may lead to water damage if left unaddressed.
One reason for a leaky faucet has nothing to do with the faucet. Leaks may sometimes result from incorrect water pressure, though other factors can also contribute. Water pressure can be influenced by several factors, such as clogs, leaks in other parts of the system, or a reduced water supply. A professional plumber needs to find the source of a water pressure problem and fix it.
Other reasons a faucet leak is a worn or loose O-ring or a broken or worn-out washer. The washer can also be the wrong size or improperly installed. A broken cartridge can be a problem in a faucet that has hot and cold water handles. The valve seat that holds the spout and faucet together can also be corroded.
2. A Noisy and Spitting Faucet
This problem is both annoying and messy. It’s annoying because of the sounds the faucet makes and messy because the spitting water lands where it shouldn’t. Noise and spitting are usually the result of a broken aerator or diverter valve. Replacing these parts can be straightforward for those with the right tools and experience, but if the water sputters when it comes out, you may have a deteriorated washer. Sputtering is also a sign that there’s something wrong with the plumbing system itself. This needs to be tended to by a professional.
3. Strange Noises
A faucet that may require repair can produce various unusual sounds, such as squeaking, hammering, or vibration. Handles that squeak may mean that the threads in the faucet stem are worn out. Other problematic noises include the following:
Water Hammer
This happens when the water in a pipe stops or even reverses, which causes a shock wave. This travels back to the faucet and causes it to vibrate and make a “hammering” noise. This happens to both old and young plumbing pipes. Water hammer issues are often addressed by installing arrestors, though further inspection may be needed in some cases.
Loose or Damaged Parts
Deteriorated O-rings, washers, and valve seats can make a cacophony. They’ll need to be replaced.
High Water Pressure
High water pressure causes not just leaky faucets, but noisy faucets. Installing a pressure-reducing valve may help resolve issues related to high water pressure, such as leaks and noise.
Published by: Nelly Chavez
