What is causing your faucet to drip?

When you notice a leaky faucet around your home it’s important to fix it quickly. A small drip can quickly turn into a big problem. A faucet leak can waste water and also cause a lot of damage to your home.

So what causes a faucet to drip? Here are some common causes.

O ring issues: If the O ring – which is attached to the stem screw in the faucet handle – becomes loose, the faucet can start to drip around the handle.

Corroded valve seat: The valve seat – which connects the faucet and the spout – can become corroded, which can cause leaking around the spout.

Washer needs replacing: Dripping around the spout can be caused by a worn out washer, or a washer that is installed incorrectly. This is one of the most common causes of a leaky faucet.

Loose parts: Over time, the parts of the faucet may become loose because of constant usage. A plumber can help identify which parts need to be tightened.