Why Does Water Keep Running from a Faucet When Not Used for a Long Time Even After Turning Off the Tap?

Have you ever encountered a faucet that continues to drip or leak even after you've turned off the tap completely? This can be a frustrating issue, but understanding the root cause can help you find the right solution. Typically, the issue arises from worn out seals, such as washers, seats, or ceramic discs. These parts require replacement to ensure the faucet functions properly.

Royal Seal Evaluation: Washer, Seat Cup, and Spring Cartridge

When a faucet doesn't turn off completely, it often signifies a problem with the seals inside the faucet. Common culprits include wear and tear on washers, seat cups, and spring cartridges. These seals play a crucial role in ensuring that the water stops flowing once the tap is closed. If these seals are damaged or worn out, water may continue to leak from the faucet.

Identifying and Replacing the Problematic Parts

The first step in troubleshooting a leaky faucet is to identify the specific type of seal that needs to be replaced. Every brand and style of faucet is different, so it's important to determine the exact type of faucet you have. If you're confident in DIY repairs, you can attempt to replace the seals yourself. However, if you're not comfortable with the task, it's best to call a professional plumber. Here are the steps to follow if you decide to tackle the repair on your own:

DIY Faucet Repair: Steps and Components

1. Turn Off the Water Supply: Before starting any repair, make sure to turn off the water supply to the faucet. This can typically be done by closing the angle stops located under the sink. 2. Remove the Faucet Handle: Depending on your faucet, you may need to remove the handle. For single-handle faucets, this can often be done by using a handle removal tool or a Phillips head screwdriver. 3. Inspect and Replace the Cartridge: For cartridge-operated faucets, you'll need to remove the cartridge from the faucet body. This will give you access to the internal seals. Replace any worn or damaged seals with new ones. 4. For Double-Handle Faucets: Close the water supply, remove the handles, and unscrew the stems to access the seats. These seats are rubber washers and usually need to be replaced if they are worn out. 5. For Delta Faucets: The repair process can be a bit different. You'll need to remove the cartridge and observe the base for two rubber caps with springs underneath. These are the seats on Delta products. They may also have a repair kit available for easy replacement.

Checking Warranties and DIY Availability

Some brands, such as Delta and Moen, offer warranties that may cover repairs or replacements. If you're not confident in handling the repairs yourself, or if you prefer a hassle-free solution, these warranties can be a good option. However, if you are inclined to do it yourself, you can find specific parts online or at your local hardware store. Make sure to buy the right parts to ensure a successful repair.

Professional Help and Cost Considerations

While DIY repairs can save you money, it's important to assess your comfort level with the task. If you're not familiar with plumbing, it might be best to call a professional plumber. Plumbers have the experience and tools to handle more complex issues. While they may charge for their services, professional assistance can ensure a proper and lasting fix.

Final Thoughts

Leaky faucets can be a common issue, but with the right tools and knowledge, you can often resolve the problem yourself. Regardless of whether you choose to handle the repairs yourself or seek professional help, taking action to fix the leaky faucet is important for maintaining the functionality and efficiency of your plumbing system.