January 11, 2023 •Reid Geiler
Having a leaky kitchen faucet can be a real headache. Not only is it annoying to hear the constant dripping, but it can add up to a lot of wasted water (and money) over time.
However, if your kitchen faucet is leaking, don't worry; you may not need to call in a plumber to fix it - there are some simple steps you can take to stop the dripping and get your faucet back in working order. In this blog, we'll cover some common issues that cause leaky faucets and what you can do to fix them.
Loose Connections Can Make Your Kitchen Faucet Leak
If any of the connections between the faucet and the sink are loose, it can leak. This problem is fixed by tightening the connections.
Areas to check include:
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The faucet and the sink connection.
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The connection between the faucet and the water supply line.
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The connection between the hot and cold water lines.
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The connection between the handle and the faucet body.
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The connection between the aerator and the faucet body.
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The connection between the faucet body and the mounting nut.
After determining the source of the leak, you can tighten the connections with a wrench or replace worn parts.
Worn Out O-Ring Can Cause a Faucet To Leak
The O-ring in a kitchen faucet creates a watertight seal between the faucet and the sink. It prevents water from leaking out of the faucet and helps to ensure the water pressure is maintained.
With use, the O-ring can become damaged over time and cause a leak. The best move is to replace this faucet component immediately to prevent further damage or leaks.
Corroded Valve Seat
Mineral deposits can build up inside the valve seat and cause a leak. To repair a corroded valve seat, you will need to clean the valve seat and remove any corrosion or mineral deposits that have built up. You can use a wire brush or another abrasive cleaning tool to remove buildup and residue.
If the component is badly clogged with deposits, replacing the valve seat is always an option. This part is widely available at most big box and home improvement retailers.
If Your Faucet Is Leaking Look For A Broken Or Worn-Out Washer
Over time, wear and tear to the washer can cause a leak. If this is the case, replacing the washer should resolve your issue. To do this, turn off the faucet water supply and use a wrench to unscrew the nut that holds the washer in place. Once removed, you can replace the worn-out washer with a new one. Make sure to use the same type and size of the washer as the one you're replacing. Once the new washer is in place, reattach the nut and turn the water supply back on.
A Clogged Aerator Can Cause a Leaky Kitchen Faucet
A faucet aerator is a small but significant component that screws onto the end of a faucet. It mixes air into the water stream, creating a gentler flow that reduces splashing and conserves water. However, debris can collect in the aerator and cause a leak.
If a faucet aerator becomes clogged, it may reduce water flow and pressure. To fix this:
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Turn off the water supply and remove the aerator.
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Next, use a small brush or cloth to clean it and any debris from the faucet.
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Once it is clean, reattach the aerator and turn the water supply back on.
Faulty Faucet Hardware
Faulty faucet hardware can cause a leaky kitchen faucet if the parts become worn or damaged over time. Common reasons include a defective o-ring, worn valve seat, or cracked gaskets. Other causes of a leaky kitchen faucet include worn-out washers, loose nuts, bolts, or a clogged aerator.
Therefore, it is essential to inspect the faucet hardware regularly to ensure it is in good condition and replace any worn or damaged parts.
Water Quality Matters!
Homes with hard or untreated water are more likely to experience issues with their plumbing when compared to houses that use soft, treated water.
Hard water is mineral-rich, containing calcium and magnesium. As it applies to the water supply, these minerals can build up in the plumbing system, resulting in clogged pipes. In addition, they can reduce efficiency, causing the water heater to work harder. Installing a water treatment system helps avert these issues.
Overall, it's essential to be aware of the signs of a leaking kitchen faucet and to take steps to resolve the problem quickly and correctly. If the leak persists, it is best to consult a licensed plumber to diagnose the issue and provide reliable solutions.
