Leak Repair: A Plumber’s Most Frequent Call – Here’s Why

Let’s be honest: plumbing issues are bound to happen. Whether it’s a leaky faucet or a dripping pipe, water can quickly become a major headache if things aren’t running smoothly. One of the most common reasons people call in plumbing professionals is for leak repair. From faucets and pipes to toilets, leaks can occur in a variety of places around your home. Not only are they annoying, but they can also lead to higher water bills and even damage your home if left unchecked.

In this post, we’ll walk through the most common types of plumbing leaks and how plumbers fix them, so you can stay ahead of those pesky drips!

 Faucet Leaks: The Drip That Won’t Quit

That “drip, drip, drip” sound is not just annoying; it’s also a waste of water. A leaky faucet can waste hundreds of gallons over time! The most common cause of faucet leaks is worn-out washers, seals, or O-rings. Faucets come in various styles—compression, ball, cartridge, or ceramic disk—and each one can develop leaks for different reasons.

How is it fixed? A plumber will usually start by disassembling the faucet to inspect for worn-out parts. Depending on the faucet type, replacing a washer or seal is often a quick and easy fix. In some cases, if the faucet is old or heavily corroded, it might be worth considering a full replacement.

Pipe Leaks: The Sneaky Culprits

Pipes run all through your house, behind walls, under floors, and in ceilings. Because of this, a pipe leak isn’t always easy to spot. If you notice wet spots, strange stains, or reduced water pressure, you might have a pipe leak. These leaks are often caused by corrosion, high water pressure, or even tree roots invading underground pipes. Pipes can also crack during colder months when the water inside freezes and expands.

How is it fixed? A plumber will first locate the source of the leak. If the leak is small and in a visible pipe, a simple patch or replacement of the section may suffice. For hidden leaks, plumbers use special tools, like leak detection equipment, to pinpoint the problem without tearing apart walls unnecessarily. In severe cases, entire pipe sections may need to be replaced to prevent future leaks.

Toilet Leaks: The Silent Water Waster

Toilets are a common source of leaks, and sometimes you won’t even know it’s happening. A toilet leak often happens at the base, where it meets the floor, or inside the tank itself. A constantly running toilet can waste a shocking amount of water. Often, the problem lies with the flapper valve not sealing properly or a worn-out fill valve.

How is it fixed? For tank-related leaks, replacing the flapper valve or adjusting the float may be all it takes. Leaks around the base of the toilet can indicate a damaged wax seal, which will need to be replaced. Your plumber will also check the bolts that secure the toilet to the floor, as loose connections can lead to leakage. In some cases, an entire toilet replacement might be necessary if there are more serious issues.

Other Common Leak Sources

• Water Heaters: Over time, water heaters can corrode and develop leaks around the base or the water supply lines. Regular maintenance can prevent these problems, but once a leak starts, it might be time for a new water heater.
• Showerheads: A leaky showerhead is often caused by a worn-out washer or seal. In most cases, tightening or replacing the parts is enough to fix it.
• Outdoor Spigots: Outdoor faucets are prone to leaks, especially after a harsh winter. These leaks can sometimes be fixed with a new washer, but if the spigot has cracked, replacement is the best option.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore a Leak

Even small leaks can lead to big problems if left unattended. Water damage is expensive to repair, and mold growth is another risk you want to avoid. Leaks also increase your water bill, which is essentially money down the drain. The sooner you address a leak, the less likely you’ll need to deal with extensive repairs later on.

Call a Professional Before the Drip Turns into a Flood

If you’re noticing drips, wet spots, or higher water bills, it’s time to call in a plumbing professional like Majesty Plumbing. Leak repair is one of the most common services plumbers provide, and they have the tools and expertise to stop that pesky drip for good. Whether it’s a leaky faucet, pipe, or toilet, don’t wait until the problem gets worse. You’ll save water, money, and potentially a lot of headaches down the road.

By staying on top of these common leak problems, you can keep your home in tip-top shape and avoid those unwelcome surprises when you least expect them!