A leaky faucet might seem like a minor inconvenience, but those constant drips can waste hundreds of liters of water and lead to higher utility bills. Over time, even a small leak can damage sinks, countertops, and plumbing fixtures. Understanding what causes a faucet to leak and how to fix it can save you money and prevent unnecessary water waste.

If you’re dealing with a persistent faucet leak in Rive-Sud, Plombier Rive Sud provides professional plumbing services to quickly diagnose and repair the issue. But if you’re interested in a DIY approach, here are the top five causes of leaky faucets and how you can fix them.

1. Worn-Out Washer

💧 Why It Causes Leaks:

The washer inside your faucet is responsible for creating a tight seal to stop water flow. Over time, constant friction against the valve seat causes it to wear out, harden, or crack, resulting in water leaking from the spout.

🛠️ How to Fix It:

1. Turn off the water supply to the faucet.
2. Disassemble the faucet handle with a screwdriver.
3. Remove the old washer and replace it with a new one of the same size.
4. Reassemble the faucet and turn the water back on to test.

🚨 Pro Tip: Use a washer made of durable rubber or silicone for longer-lasting results.

2. Damaged Cartridge (In Cartridge Faucets)

💧 Why It Causes Leaks:

If you have a cartridge faucet (common in bathroom sinks and showers), a worn or damaged cartridge can cause water to leak from the spout or handle. The cartridge controls the flow and temperature of the water, and when it fails, dripping or inconsistent water flow often occurs.

🛠️ How to Fix It:

1. Shut off the water supply and remove the faucet handle.
2. Pull out the old cartridge (you may need pliers).
3. Purchase an exact replacement (take the old cartridge to the hardware store).
4. Insert the new cartridge, reassemble the faucet, and test for leaks.

🚨 Not sure which cartridge to buy? Plombier Rive Sud can help you select and install the right one.

3. Corroded Valve Seat

💧 Why It Causes Leaks:

The valve seat connects the faucet to the spout and helps seal water flow. Mineral deposits and sediment buildup can cause the valve seat to corrode, resulting in leaks around the base of the faucet.

🛠️ How to Fix It:

1. Remove the faucet and inspect the valve seat.
2. Use a valve seat wrench to remove it.
3. Clean minor corrosion with a valve seat grinder or replace the seat if it’s severely damaged.
4. Reassemble and check for leaks.

🚨 Prevent future buildup by cleaning your faucet regularly and using a water softener if you have hard water.

4. Worn-Out O-Ring

💧 Why It Causes Leaks:

The O-ring is a small rubber ring located around the faucet’s stem screw. Over time, it can wear out, crack, or loosen, causing leaks near the handle, especially when you turn the faucet on or off.

🛠️ How to Fix It:

1. Turn off the water supply and remove the handle.
2. Locate the O-ring and carefully slide it off.
3. Replace it with a new ring of the same size.
4. Reassemble and test the faucet.

🚨 Tip: Apply a small amount of plumber’s grease to the new O-ring for a better seal.

5. Loose Parts or Worn Seals

💧 Why It Causes Leaks:

Over time, parts inside your faucet—such as packing nuts, screws, and seals—can become loose or worn, causing water to leak from various points.

🛠️ How to Fix It:

1. Disassemble the faucet and tighten any loose parts.
2. Inspect seals and gaskets for wear; replace as needed.
3. Reassemble and check if the leak is resolved.

🚨 If tightening and replacing parts doesn’t stop the leak, it may be time for a new faucet installation.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

While some faucet leaks are easy to fix, complex issues or recurring leaks may require professional help. Call Plombier Rive Sud if:

✅ You’ve replaced washers and O-rings, but the leak persists.
✅ There’s corrosion or extensive damage inside the faucet.
✅ The faucet is old and needs replacement.
✅ You’re uncomfortable attempting a DIY repair.

💧 Professional plumbers can identify the root cause quickly and ensure a lasting fix.

Tips to Prevent Future Faucet Leaks

✔ Avoid overtightening handles, which can wear out internal components.
✔ Clean faucets regularly to prevent sediment buildup.
✔ Replace worn parts promptly to avoid bigger issues.
✔ Install water softeners if you have hard water to reduce mineral deposits.

Stop the Drip—Call Plombier Rive Sud Today!

Ignoring a leaky faucet can waste water, increase your bills, and lead to bigger plumbing issues. Whether you need a quick repair or a full faucet replacement, Plombier Rive Sud offers fast, reliable plumbing services in Rive-Sud to get the job done right.