A common plumbing issue homeowners face is leaky faucets. Not only do they waste a valuable natural resource and increase utility bills, but also make that annoying dripping sound. The culprit most often responsible for leaky faucets are worn components hidden inside the fixture. When you think about how much you use your faucets, it is easy to understand why they wear out and begin to leak. Understanding the type of faucet you have will go a long way when it is time to fix it. Although the repair is usually quite simple, finding the right part can prove to be difficult. That is why homeowners should rely on a professional plumber to repair it.
Cartridge Faucets
Cartridge-type faucets use an up and down motion to regulate the flow and temperature of the water. The two most common reasons a cartridge faucet begins to leak is either a worn cartridge or the rubber O-rings used to seal it. Without knowing the type and model number of the applicable faucet, it is best to remove the old cartridge and take it with you to the home improvement center. There you will find an array of parts as well as replacement cartridges needed to repair the faucet.
Ball Faucets
Ball-type faucets have several areas prone to developing a leak. They would include the O-ring, the inlet as well as the outlet seals. A good rule of thumb when a plumber is repairing your leaky faucets is to make sure he or she replaces all the seals and O-rings as well. If one of these parts have failed, it probably won't be long until the rest follow suit. When a ball faucet continues to leak after replacing the rubber seals, it is usually a sign the ball and spring mechanism need replacing.
Depending on the type, location and problem of leaky faucets, you can expect to be without water for a period of time. The plumber must first shut off the water before the repairs begin. This might be as simple as turning off a supply valve underneath the sink or could require that the main water valve supplying the home is shut off. In either case, be prepared before the professionals arrive. Avoid household chores - washing clothes or running the dishwasher - before the scheduled arrival of the plumber. Remove any items underneath the sink to allow room for the plumber to access the necessary shut off valves.
For answers to your questions, contact the Pink Plumber today.
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