Faucets are essential fixtures in Arlington and Fall Church homes, responsible for delivering water for various daily tasks. As durable as these fixtures can be, they aren’t immune to issues that can require timely repair or even replacement. Identifying common faucet issues and taking appropriate action can help prevent further damage and save on unnecessary expenses. Let’s look at some of the most common issues faced by Arlington homeowners, along with repair and replacement recommendations to help maintain dependable faucets in your home.
With our experts at Cherry Blossom Plumbing at your side, you can be confident in the quality and efficiency of faucet repairs and replacements. Let’s explore the issues that can plague your faucets and discuss the best solutions for each.
Dripping or Leaking Faucets
Dripping faucets are perhaps the most prevalent issue faced by Arlington homeowners. While the sound of dripping might be irritating, there’s more to it than mere annoyance. A steady drip can waste a significant amount of water, leading to higher utility bills. Common causes of dripping faucets include:
- Worn-out rubber washers: Over time, rubber washers inside the faucet’s valve seat can wear out or become damaged, causing water to leak through the spout. To fix this issue, the washer should be replaced.
- Damaged valve seat: In some cases, the faucet’s valve seat might be corroded or damaged, leading to water leakage. Cleaning or replacing the valve seat can resolve the dripping issue.
If you are unable to resolve a leaking faucet by replacing the washer or valve seat, it’s best to seek professional help from our experts at Cherry Blossom Plumbing.
Low Water Pressure
Another common issue in Arlington homes is low water pressure, making it difficult to wash hands or rinse dishes effectively. Causes of low water pressure include:
- Blocked aerator: Faucet aerators, which are small mesh screens that regulate water flow, can become clogged with debris or sediment over time. Cleaning or replacing the aerator can improve the water pressure.
- Damaged cartridge: In some faucet designs, a damaged or worn-out cartridge can result in reduced water pressure. Replacing the cartridge can resolve this issue.
- Pipe issues: External factors such as debris buildup, pipe corrosion, or a partially closed supply valve can also cause low water pressure. If cleaning the aerator and replacing the cartridge doesn’t resolve the issue, consider contacting a professional plumber to examine the pipes and water supply.
Rust or Corrosion
Over time, faucets might develop rust or corrosion that could not only affect their appearance but also disrupt their functionality. Rusty water or discolored faucets can signal corrosion in the plumbing system. Some ways to deal with rust or corrosion include:
- Cleaning visible rust: Mild rust or surface corrosion on the faucet can often be cleaned using a vinegar solution or specialized rust-removal products.
- Replacing components: If the rust is isolated to specific components or fittings, replacing them could be sufficient to resolve the issue.
- Full faucet replacement: In cases where rust or corrosion has significantly damaged the faucet or affected water quality, it might be best to replace the entire faucet unit.
To ensure proper installation and long-lasting faucet functionality, consider hiring our professional plumbers at Cherry Blossom Plumbing to replace heavily corroded faucets.
Handle or Cartridge Issues
A faucet that requires excessive force to turn or is difficult to operate could be experiencing handle or cartridge issues. Some common problems include:
- Loose handle: If the handle feels loose or wobbly, tightening the set screw or adjusting the handle sleeve should resolve the issue. In some cases, damaged or worn handle components may need to be replaced.
- Stiff handle: Over time, mineral buildup or debris might make the faucet handle difficult to operate. Cleaning the handle components and applying lubrication can improve smooth operation.
- Malfunctioning cartridge: In faucets with a cartridge system, a damaged or worn-out cartridge could cause handle issues. Replacing the cartridge can fix the problem and ensure proper faucet function.
If these issues persist despite these efforts, a professional plumber can assess whether further repairs or complete faucet replacement is necessary.
Temperature Fluctuations or Inconsistent Flow
Some homeowners might notice their faucets delivering inconsistent water flow or sudden temperature changes. Causes of these issues include:
- Faulty pressure-balancing valve: In faucets with a pressure-balancing valve (commonly found in tub-shower faucets), a damaged valve can result in sudden temperature changes when using the faucet. Replacing the faulty valve can resolve this issue.
- Water heater problems: If temperature fluctuations occur throughout the home, it could signal an issue with the water heater. Consulting a professional plumber can help diagnose and resolve water heater-related problems.
- Debris in plumbing: In some instances, debris or mineral buildup in pipes might cause inconsistent water flow. A professional plumber can inspect the plumbing system and recommend cleaning or pipe replacement as needed.
Homeowners should be vigilant about monitoring their faucets and addressing any issues as soon as they arise. It’s crucial to determine whether repair or replacement is the optimal solution to ensure efficient and long-lasting faucet functionality. When in doubt, seeking professional guidance from us, Arlington and Fall Church’s trusted plumbing experts, can help make the right decision.
Trust Us at Cherry Blossom Plumbing for Your Faucet Repair and Replacement Needs
In conclusion, common faucet issues such as leaks, low water pressure, and handle problems can be a nuisance and disrupt daily activities in Arlington and Fall Church homes. Being proactive in recognizing and addressing these issues can save homeowners time and money. When repair or replacement is required, trusting a professional plumber’s expertise is key to ensuring a long-lasting and efficient faucet system.
Contact us at Cherry Blossom Plumbing to schedule a visit from our expert plumbers. We’re dedicated to providing Arlington and Fall Church clients with exceptional plumbing services, including faucet repair and installation so you can enjoy a hassle-free home environment.