How to Check Your Faucet for Leaks Regularly: A Simple Guide

Faucet leaks may seem like a small issue, but they can cause big problems if left unchecked. A constantly dripping faucet not only wastes water but can also drive up your water bills. In fact, even a single leaky faucet can waste hundreds of gallons of water each year. Regularly checking your faucet for leaks can help you catch any issues early, saving you money and conserving water.

In this post, we’ll explore why faucet leaks occur, how to check your faucet for leaks, and what you can do to fix them.

Why Faucet Leaks Happen

Before diving into how to check for leaks, it’s helpful to understand why they happen in the first place. Faucet leaks are most often caused by the deterioration of the components inside the faucet. Over time, these parts can wear out or become damaged, causing water to drip or flow even when the faucet is turned off. Common causes of faucet leaks include:

• Worn-out washers and seals: The rubber washers and seals inside the faucet are designed to create a watertight seal. Over time, they can wear down due to regular use, causing water to leak out.

• Loose or damaged parts: If parts of the faucet, like the valve or handle, become loose or damaged, they may not close properly, allowing water to leak.

• Corrosion: Faucets, especially those made of metal, can corrode over time. Corrosion can cause cracks or gaps where water can seep through.

• High water pressure: If the water pressure in your plumbing system is too high, it can stress the faucet components, causing leaks.

• Improper installation: If the faucet was not installed correctly, parts might not be sealed properly, leading to leaks.

Now that you understand the common causes, let’s look at how you can check your faucet for leaks.

How to Check Your Faucet for Leaks Regularly

1. Visually Inspect the Faucet

The first step in checking for leaks is a simple visual inspection. Look for any visible signs of moisture around the base of the faucet, especially around the handles and spout. Even if you don’t see a constant drip, small water stains or dampness could indicate a slow leak. Check under the sink as well for any water pooling around the faucet’s connection to the pipes.

Also, inspect the faucet itself for signs of wear, such as cracked rubber washers, corroded metal, or a loose handle. These can all be indicators that a leak might occur soon, even if it’s not happening yet.

2. Check for Drips and Puddles

Sometimes, faucet leaks aren’t immediately visible. To check for drips, simply turn off the faucet completely and let it sit for a few minutes. Then, check the area around the faucet for any signs of dripping water. Listen closely—faucet leaks are often quiet and may only produce a faint dripping sound.

If you notice any drips or a small puddle forming, you may have a leak that requires immediate attention. It could be from a small crack in the valve or a worn-out washer, both of which are common issues.

3. Test the Water Pressure

Excessive water pressure is one of the leading causes of faucet leaks. If you suspect that the water pressure in your home is too high, it’s important to check it regularly. High pressure can cause stress on the faucet’s components, eventually leading to leaks.

You can test the water pressure using a pressure gauge, which can be purchased at most hardware stores. Simply screw the gauge onto an outdoor faucet or the faucet in your laundry room, then turn on the water. A healthy water pressure reading should be between 40-60 psi (pounds per square inch). If the reading exceeds this range, your water pressure may be too high, which can cause leaks over time.

4. Inspect the Handle and Valve

The handle and valve are two of the most common sources of leaks in a faucet. To check the handle for leaks, turn the faucet on and off several times to see if it responds properly. If the handle feels loose or difficult to turn, this could indicate a problem with the valve or the cartridge inside the faucet.

For single-handle faucets, the valve cartridge is a common culprit for leaks. Over time, the cartridge can become worn out or damaged, causing water to leak from the spout or around the base of the handle. For double-handle faucets, check each handle separately, as each may have a worn washer or seal.

5. Perform a Bucket Test for Dripping Faucets

If your faucet is dripping but you can’t identify the source of the leak, a bucket test can help you pinpoint the issue. This test is especially helpful for detecting leaks that are difficult to see or hear.

Here’s how to do the bucket test:

• Start by closing the faucet completely and turning off the water supply.

• Fill a bucket with water and place it directly under the faucet spout, ensuring that it’s positioned to catch any drips.

• Let the faucet sit undisturbed for a few hours (preferably overnight).

• The next day, check the bucket for any water. If there is water in the bucket, you know that the faucet is leaking, and it’s time to fix the problem.

6. Check for Water Under the Sink

Leaks often aren’t just visible on the faucet itself. It’s a good idea to periodically check under the sink, especially around the base of the faucet. Look for signs of water pooling or drips around the water supply lines, connections, or pipes. If you see any signs of leakage, it’s a good indication that there’s a problem with the faucet’s plumbing connections.

If the connections seem loose or corroded, they may need to be tightened or replaced. In some cases, replacing the faucet’s supply lines or washers may be all that’s needed to stop the leak.

What to Do If You Find a Leak

If you’ve found a leak, the next step is to determine whether it can be easily repaired or if it requires professional help. Here’s what you can do based on the type of leak:

• For a minor drip or leaking handle: You can often fix the leak yourself by replacing worn washers, seals, or cartridges. Turn off the water supply, disassemble the faucet, and replace the necessary parts.

• For a major leak or corroded parts: If the faucet’s internal parts are too damaged or corroded, you may need to replace the faucet entirely. In this case, it’s best to call a plumber to ensure the job is done correctly.

• For high water pressure issues: If you find that your water pressure is too high, you can install a pressure regulator to help reduce the pressure and prevent further damage to your faucet.

Conclusion: The Importance of Regular Faucet Inspections

Checking your faucet for leaks regularly is an easy yet effective way to conserve water, prevent costly repairs, and maintain your home’s plumbing system. By performing routine inspections, you can catch small issues before they become major problems. Whether you’re dealing with a slow drip or a leaky handle, fixing faucet leaks promptly will save you money in the long run and help ensure that your faucets continue to work properly for years to come.

Remember, if you’re not comfortable performing repairs yourself or if the leak is significant, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are the best way to keep your faucets in top condition and avoid wasting precious water