Every home needs faucets to provide an easy and nearly endless supply of clean water. This is particularly true in a place like Parker, where the comfort and convenience of your home depend on efficient plumbing to deliver the very essentials of life. But what happens when you turn on the tap, and nothing (or too little) comes out? Or, imagine you are using the faucet, and it begins to sputter and spit. The next time you are confronted with a malfunctioning faucet, take a moment to assess the situation and figure out what kind of repair it needs. Common issues panel faucets fail at include leaks, low water pressure, or just a general inability to get the water to stop or go.
A leaking faucet can be a frequent worry for homeowners—a problem that usually originates with worn seals or washers. These small parts can degrade over years of use, leading to leaks that occur even when the faucet is shut off. Not only does this increase your water bill, but it can also lead to unsightly water stains or damage to countertops and cabinetry. In some cases, the valve seat might be corroded, necessitating either a replacement or some good old-fashioned plumbing repair. Finally, if you have a ball-type or cartridge-type faucet, remember that you'll need to use specific techniques to address those, as they contain more complex internal mechanisms than standard compression faucets do. If you're unsure how to do any of this, consult an expert.
A low water pressure problem can arise from sediment buildup, obstructions in the faucet, or significant plumbing issues in your system. These problems usually point to something amiss that will only lead to bigger headaches and bigger expenses if they aren't dealt with upfront. If you have low water pressure, here's a quick rundown of how to troubleshoot:
1. Check the aerator. This is the most common point of entry for debris to get into your faucet. If your aerator is not clean, the water pressure is not going to be impressive in any way. A blocked aerator can also look good on the outside but be partially blocked on the inside.
2. Take a look at the hose. If your faucet has a pull-down or pull-out head, the hose can kink or collapse easily, causing low pressure. Eliminate any kinks in the hose that you can see and that your hand can reach. Press out any kinks that you can see. If the hose looks kinked when it is hanging down, run it along the counter or a table to press out the kink.