It's estimated that the average household leak can waste up to 9,400 gallons of water in a year. Unchecked plumbing issues are expensive to fix. One of the most common plumbing problems is a leaking faucet. Here's a look at some common causes of a leaking faucet.

A Bad O-Ring

One of the common problems with a leaking faucet is a loose O-ring. This is the disc attached to the stem screw of the faucet. The O-ring holds the faucet's handle. Unfortunately, the O-ring deteriorates over time, and this breaks the seal around the faucet. If the O-ring has a problem, the faucet will drip near the handle. Replacing the O-ring is the best way to fix the problem. 

High Water Pressure

Sometimes, a water faucet leaks at particular hours of the day, like during the night or at times when no plumbing component is in use. This is a sign that you have a high water pressure problem. Some other high water pressure signs include running toilets, running out of hot water, and banging pipes.

Tiny leaks can start in the faucet and worsen into pinhole leaks. These leaks will eventually shorten the lifespan of your boiler system, dishwasher, washing machine, and water heater. You should consult a plumber to have the water pressure evaluated.

Leaking Pipes

Cracked or damaged pipes can also cause a leaking faucet. Additionally, cracked pipes raise the water pressure in your plumbing system. You need to address leaking pipes before they lead to serious problems.

Some dangers of ignoring leaking pipes are that they cause invasive black mold, poor water quality, and stained walls. If the cracked pipes were to burst, the result would be flooding. In the end, leaking pipe damage will end up costing you a lot of money in structural repairs.

Problems with the Washer

Another common reason you may experience a leaking faucet is problems with the washer. The washers are rubber or metal pieces used to seal gaps in the pipe to prevent leaks. These washers can wear out with time. 

Sometimes you'll experience a leak if the washer isn't properly installed. Additionally, you face this problem if you install the wrong size of the washer. You should consult a plumber to help you install the right washers.

The average cost for repairing a dripping faucet ranges between $65 - $150. A small leak can result in water wastage and high-water bills. It's essential to be able to identify some causes of water leaks and have them resolved before they lead to huge losses. Contact a plumbing service for more information.