A dripping faucet is one of the most common plumbing problems you may encounter. Many people think this issue is nothing more than a minor annoyance. However, it can be a bigger problem than you may realize. One reason is that a dripping faucet can be a sign of underlying issues that could lead to more serious problems. Ignoring a dripping faucet can also cost you money in more ways than one. This article will explore why you should never ignore a dripping faucet. It will also discuss what can cause a faucet to drip constantly, and how you can fix the problem.

Water Waste and Environmental Impact

A faucet that slowly drips typically won't cause a noticeable increase in your water bills. If the faucet drips at 10 drops per minute, it typically wastes less than a gallon of water per day. A faster drip at 1 drop per second wastes about 2 gallons of water per day. This is roughly equivalent to taking several extra showers over the course of a month, depending on your shower’s flow rate.

The real concern is the cumulative environmental impact this type of plumbing leak has. It's estimated that household plumbing leaks waste around 1 trillion gallons of water annually in the US alone. The average household wastes around 10,000 gallons of water per year, mostly due to basic issues like dripping faucets and showerheads, or running toilets. All this waste places unnecessary strain on water resources. It also increases the work water treatment facilities have to do, resulting in higher carbon emissions. By promptly fixing drips and other leaks, you can help protect our most precious resource.

Increased Repair Needs

The most common reason a faucet will start dripping is that a seal or O-ring is worn out. Replacing this type of component is relatively easy, and the part often won't cost you more than a few dollars. If you ignore the problem, the continuous flow of water through the faucet can erode and wear out other components like the valve seat, cartridge or valve. That means what would've initially been an easy, inexpensive repair can suddenly become more difficult and costly. In some cases, you may have to replace the cartridge or other internal components.

Water continually flowing through a pipe and faucet can also result in increased corrosion. If the valve seat gets severely corroded, it can be difficult to remove and replace. In some cases, installing a new faucet may be the most practical solution.

Mineral Deposit Buildup

Mineral deposit buildup is one of the main culprits behind drips. It prevents the cartridge or valve from fully closing, resulting in constant dripping. A dripping faucet can sometimes be an indicator that limescale is building up in the fixture or nearby plumbing components. Limescale buildup in pipes restricts water flow, reducing water pressure.

If you have a drip related to limescale buildup, it is a good idea to contact a plumber. They can inspect your plumbing system to check if you have a broader issue. Besides affecting water pressure, high mineral content in your water can build up in your appliances and water heater. A plumber may recommend installing a water softener to solve the issue.

Water softeners work by removing calcium and magnesium minerals from your water before it flows through your plumbing system. Most systems use a resin tank to capture the minerals, and a brine solution to flush them away during a regeneration cycle. It is installed where your main water line enters the home, allowing it to treat all incoming water. Addressing limescale early can prevent minor issues like faucet drips from becoming more widespread plumbing damage and costly repairs.

High Water Pressure

Some older homes have issues with their water pressure frequently being too high. Many homes have a pressure-regulating valve installed when incoming municipal water pressure exceeds recommended levels. It reduces the pressure of water entering the house from the municipal supply system. Without this valve, incoming municipal water pressure may exceed the recommended 80 psi for residential plumbing systems. At this pressure, the water can force seals inside a faucet open and lead to it constantly dripping.

The concern in this situation is the impact that high water pressure has on pipes and appliances. High pressure can often shorten the lifespan of a dishwasher or washing machine. It also substantially increases the likelihood that your plumbing system will develop leaks around connections. Over time, high water pressure can stress pipe fittings and joints, increasing the risk of leaks. A plumber can install a pressure regulator to protect your plumbing.

Potential Water Damage and Mold Growth

Many of the issues associated with dripping faucets create a high potential for water damage. One issue is a cartridge or valve that no longer fully closes, preventing the water from being shut off. This can result in water continuously leaking from the base of the faucet even when it's not in use. This type of issue can quickly damage or ruin your countertop or cause water to spill over the counter and damage the flooring. Unfortunately, this type of issue may not be easy to see. The faucet may be leaking towards the wall and running down behind your counter. In this scenario, a hidden leak can quickly lead to mold issues.

How to Fix a Dripping Faucet

Fixing a dripping faucet can sometimes be a straightforward task, such as replacing a worn-out O-ring. In other cases, the repair may involve replacing a cartridge or valve, which is more complex. It will require the proper tools and experience. Attempting a repair without the right knowledge can make the problem worse.

It's also important to remember that a dripping faucet is often a symptom of a larger issue. Excessively high water pressure entering your home or ongoing mineral buildup can affect your entire plumbing system. Calling a plumber for what seems like a minor issue is a smart move. They can identify underlying problems early, helping you avoid more extensive plumbing damage and costly repairs down the line.

Contact Your Local Experts

At Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® in North Metro, MN, we're ready to use our expertise to help you quickly tackle any plumbing problem you're facing. From simple repairs and fixture replacements to leak detection and repiping, we offer expert solutions for all your needs. We work on both residential and commercial plumbing and back all our services with a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee. As a local business, we focus on developing long-term customer relationships. This means you can expect high-quality work at reasonable prices. To schedule service for your home or business, contact the trusted, local experts at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® today.