Faucet Repair Aurora

Typical indicators that a faucet needs repairing are constant dripping, malfunctioning operation (difficulty in turning the faucet on or off), and weak water pressure. Odd noises when using the faucet (squeaking or knocking) might also be a sign that something is amiss. And, of course, any visible leaks or loose parts (like a handle that's too easy to turn) definitely suggest the faucet's on the verge of retirement.

When a faucet leaks, it doesn't take long to figure out what you have to do to stop the water. Unlike some of the other plumbing problems you might encounter, fixing a dripping faucet is fairly straightforward and can usually be done in less than an hour, with just a few simple tools. Still, before you break out the wrench, it's important to know what you're up against. "There are a few different reasons why a faucet might drip, and each of those reasons comes with a few different possible solutions," says Susan Millerick, a plumbing expert with the National Association of Home Inspectors.

Your faucet could be making a squealing noise for a couple of common reasons. The first is that the washer is worn out. In this case, replacing the washer usually takes care of the problem. Another possible reason for the squealing noise is that the valve system is wearing out. Parts inside the valve—a component that regulates water flow—can dry out and start to cause friction, resulting in a noise not unlike the sound of very unhappy little mice (squeak, squeak, squeak!). If your faucet is squeaking and replacing the washer as well as doing a little maintenance on the valve system doesn't work, you may need to contact a professional plumber to find out what other little critters may be living in your plumbing system.

How long it takes to fix a dripping faucet can depend on how complicated the problem is. If it's simple, like a worn-out washer or cartridge that needs replacing, the job can typically be done in an hour or less. But if the faucet is part of a larger plumbing problem, if it's an old faucet that needs retrofitting, or if the necessary parts are not on hand, you could be looking at something more along the lines of "plumbing hellday."

Sure! Here is a rephrased version of the text:A dripping faucet can cost you a pretty penny over the long haul, even when it seems like it's only dripping a little. If we take that same faucet and imagine it dripping at full force—45 drips per second, capable of wasting over 3,000 gallons of water in one year—it becomes clear that a slow, steady leak can lead to substantial hikes in your water bill. And if we factor in the next worst offender after the faucet—the toilet, which can flush itself (and your money) down the plumbing at a rate of 5,000 gallons per year—a clear picture of how enough practical plumbing wisdom can disallow detrimental drips from sneaking up on your household arises.

Faucet repairs can often be avoided by keeping the faucet well-maintained. This requires checking for any signs that the faucet might be malfunctioning (like leaking, for instance), making sure all parts are tight, and ensuring that the aerator is clean—all of which allow things to flow as they should. Probably the most important thing, though, is not to use the faucet handle like it was a wrench but rather to turn it gently, as intended. If the faucet is old or you suspect that it might be nearing the end of its life, a plumber can inspect it to preemptively wall off any maintenance issues from turning into significant repairs.

Deciding whether to fix or replace an old faucet often boils down to the faucet's condition and how often it seems to need repairs. If your faucet is more than 10 years old and seems to have repair needs that are coming up more frequently, you might want to consider replacing it instead of shelling out more and more cash to keep it going. Even so, if the problem turns out to be a simple one and the faucet is otherwise in good shape, you might be better off just getting it fixed. A plumber can give you a better idea of which option is smarter economically, considering your faucet's specific situation.

The fundamental instruments necessary for faucet mending generally encompass an adjustable wrench, a Phillips-head and flathead screwdriver, plumber's tape, and a hex key or Allen wrench. Having a basic repair kit specifically for faucet malfunctions could also be useful. The exact apparatus required can change depending on the kind of faucet being worked on and the exact nature of its failure. Still, the use of inappropriate tools can lead to additional damage, either to the faucet or to the person making the repair.

A number of problems can cause low water pressure at your faucet, among them a clogged aerator, a valve that's not completely open, or even a hidden plumbing leak. The most likely suspect is the aerator, which can get gummed up with minerals if you have hard water. The solution is to remove the aerator and clean it. If your water pressure doesn't improve, try checking the valve and then looking for other possible causes—none of which is likely to be convenient. If the plumbing is leaking, it will have to be fixed, but there are more ways in which the water supply can be held up than you might think.

When the faucet issue is beyond simple fixes or you're just not sure what's wrong, it may be time to call in the pros. Plumbling detectives can track down those stubborn leaks as well as mysterious sounds that might be your faucet's last gasp before it gives up and floods the house. They've seen so much that their judgment can be very helpful: Is this worth fixing? If it's going to cost so much, should we just replace it and be done with it? And if your DIY attempts have made things worse, they can come in and kick the problem back into shape.