A usual plumbing issue homeowners face is leaky faucets. Not only do they waste a valuable natural resource and bring up utility bills, but they also make that annoying dripping sound. Most of the time, it’s leaky faucets that are worn components hidden inside the fixture.
When you think about how much you use your faucets, it is reasonable to understand why they wear out and begin to leak. Getting a better picture of the type of faucet you have will go a long way when it is time to fix it. Even though the repair is usually quite simple, finding the right part can prove to be a bit hard. That is why homeowners should rely on a local Long Beach Plumber to help repair it.
Cartridge Faucets
Cartridge-type faucets use an up and down motion to help regulate the flow and temperature of the water. The two most notable reasons a cartridge faucet starts to leak is either a worn cartridge or the rubber O-rings used to seal it.
Without even knowing the type and model number of the applicable faucet, it is generally best to remove the old cartridge and take it with you to the home improvement center. There you will discover an assortment of parts as well as replacement cartridges needed to repair the faucet.
Ball Faucets
Ball-type faucets have a variety of areas prone to developing a leak. They would include the O-ring, the inlet as well as the outlet seals. A general rule of thumb when a local Long Beach Plumber is repairing your leaky faucets is to make sure he or she replaces all the seals and O-rings as well.
If one of these parts don’t function the right way, it probably won’t be too long until the rest follow right after. When a ball faucet keeps on leaking after replacing the rubber seals, most Long Beach Plumbers will tell you that it is typically a sign the ball and spring mechanism need replacing.
Now depending on the type, location and problem of leaky faucets, you can expect to be without water for a good amount of time. The local Long Beach Plumber must first shut off the water before the repairs begin.
This might be as simple as turning off a supply valve underneath the sink or could require that the main water valve supplying the home is shut off. In either case, be prepared before the professionals arrive.
Avoid household chores – washing clothes or running the dishwasher – before the scheduled arrival of the plumber. Remove any items underneath the sink to allow room for the plumber to access the necessary shut off valves.