Leaky Taps: A Costly Drip

There are leaky faucets that are just about a household nuisance. Their problems range from a higher water bill to mould growth and water damage. This article considers the different types of leaky taps, their causes, and what you can avail of leak tap repair Sydney offers, including when to repair or replace a leaky tap.

Types of leaky taps

Now, there are many types of leaky taps; all these have some unique characteristics. Some of the common types of leaky taps include:

Dripping taps: The most common type of leaky taps. A worn-out washer, a loose nut on the packing, or even a faulty cartridge can facilitate this.

Leaking taps at the base: It is due to worn-out washers or gaskets. If these are not fixed in a while, they also extend and increase the area's damage around it by further damage like water stains or mould formation.

Leaking taps around the handle: This is the usual leak caused by a worn-out O-ring or packing nut. Fixing this problem prevents future wear of your tap's internal parts and ensures smooth operation.

Causes of leaky taps

Leaky faucets can emanate from so many factors, including but not limited to

Worn-out washers: Each tap has small discs of rubber or plastic, usually ring-like in shape, known as washers, which provide a tight seal. However, such washers wear out or, at times, crack or break, resulting in water leakage. Replacing such used washers often solves the problem and restores the tap to full functionality.

Loose packing nuts: Packing nuts keep the packing material tight, ensuring a proper seal around the tap stem. If these nuts become loose, the packing can shift or deteriorate, causing leaks around the handle. The problem is usually solved just by tightening or replacing the packing nut.

Defective cartridges: Most of the newer faucets have a cartridge that does the work instead of the washer, which measures the water that comes out. These cartridges may wear out or get defective. This kind of problem calls for replacing the cartridge when it is faulty.

Mineral deposits: Over time, mineral deposits accumulate inside the faucet, worsening if your area has a hard water supply. This further inhibits the effectiveness of the seals, leading to leaks and, therefore, calling for cleaning or descaling.

Corrosion: Corrosion occurs within a tap, mainly when made of metal. Over time, it can loosen the seals and parts and cause the tap to leak. The repair of corrosion often involves replacing such consumed parts or, in extreme conditions, the whole tap.

How to repair a leaky tap

You can fix the leaking tap while it is still leaking, but if you do not feel comfortable doing plumbing jobs, you may want to call a professional plumber.

How to Repair a Leaking Tap

Turn off the water supply: This is important because, when trying to fix your tap, the water supply to that particular tap is shut off to protect against water spillage and flooding of the house during repair, hence allowing a cleaner and safer working area.

Loosen or remove the tap's handle with a screwdriver or other utility tool. This will give you access to the tap's inner details.

Access the tap's internal details: Once you have removed the handle, you can reach inside the tap for a washer, a cartridge, an O-ring, or a packing nut. Any one of these may show wear and tear.

Replace worn-out parts: If some parts get damaged, like a worn-out washer, loosened packing nut, or cartridge, all of them must be replaced with new ones. Only then can you ensure that your repair will last long.

Reassemble Tap: After replacing the damaged parts, reassemble the tap carefully, paying attention to the proper fitment and tightening of all parts.

Turn the water supply on: Once the tap is back together, turn the water supply on. Run the tap to ensure all is okay and there aren't any more leaks.

When to call a plumber

If you are unable to repair your leaky tap or the leak is advanced, you may want to call a professional plumber. They have the experience and skills to finish the job quicker.

The cost of leaky tap repair

That would depend upon the type of faucet whether it is badly leaking, and the plumber's rates. In most general cases of repair, you would pay between $50 and $ 200.

The importance of prompt repair

Plumbing problems require immediate repairs. They waste water, which may raise your water bills. Leaky taps may also cause water damage, which is expensive to repair.

Conclusion

Leaky faucets are generally the most common household problem that can be repaired quickly. However, if you are uncomfortable with DIY plumbing, call professional plumbers. Immediately repairing leaky faucets will save on your water bill and prevent water damage.