Leaking taps are a common household problem that many people tend to ignore. These faucets drip water due to worn or damaged washers, loose connections, debris or mineral buildup, faulty cartridges, and improper installation.
It may seem like a minor inconvenience, but ignoring it can lead to several issues that can cause significant damage to your home and your wallet.
Below are the reasons why you shouldn’t ignore leaking taps and what you can do to fix them.
Water Wastage
One of the obvious reasons why you should take leaking taps seriously is water wastage. Even a tiny leakage can result in a significant waste of water over a certain period. When water flows out of the fixtures, even if not in use, it can add up quickly, leading to high water bills in the long run.
Aside from the financial cost, it can also harm the environment. Water is a precious resource, and wasting it can cause a strain on the supply, resulting in shortages. Additionally, when water is wasted, it also wastes energy used for water treatment and transportation. It can lead to increased greenhouse gas emissions and climate change.
Because of this, it’s essential to fix the leaking taps in your home to minimize the impact of water wastage on your finances and the environment.
Damage To Fixtures
Leaking taps can also damage your plumbing fixtures. Over time, the constant water dripping can cause corrosion and rust, which can weaken the structure of your faucet and cause it to break. It can be dangerous, especially if the tap breaks while you or someone else is using it. Additionally, the water can stain your sink or bathtub, causing unsightly marks that are difficult to remove.
Hence, if you notice leaking taps in your home, call a professional plumber immediately. They can provide a quick fix on a leaky tap at any time of the day. They’ll come to your house, inspect the leaking tap and repair the problem quickly.
Mold And Mildew
Leaking taps can also cause the growth of mold and mildew, which are fungi that grow in damp, humid, and warm environments. The constant moisture from the dripping water creates the perfect setting for mold and mildew to thrive. It can harm your health, especially if you have allergies or respiratory problems. These types of fungi can trigger many physical symptoms, such as coughing, itchy eyes, and sneezing.
Additionally, mold and mildew can cause damage to your walls and floors, which can be expensive to repair. They can also create a musty odor which can be challenging to remove. You can hire a professional mold remediation company to prevent their growth by removing any moisture or ventilation issues.
Increased Water Pressure
If you have a leaking tap, it can increase water pressure throughout your plumbing system, causing damage to your pipes, fittings, and appliances. The increased pressure can also cause your water bills to skyrocket, as your water usage will increase.
To fix these issues, consider installing a pressure-reducing valve to regulate the water pressure and prevent damage to your home.
Structural Damage
Leaking taps can also cause structural damage to your home. If the leak is left unchecked, it can cause damage to your walls, floors, and ceiling, which weakens the structure of your home, causing it to become unstable and unsafe.
When the water from the leaking taps pools around your home’s foundation, it can cause soil saturation, resulting in erosion and foundation damage. Also, leaks under the floors or behind the walls can cause mold infestation, leading to a possible structural collapse.
Due to these hazards, it’s essential to get your foundation checked by a professional to prevent more severe problems later.
So, now that you know why you shouldn’t ignore leaking taps, what can you do to fix them? The first step is to identify the source of the leak. Most are caused by worn-out washers or damaged o-rings, which can be easily replaced. If you’re uncomfortable doing this yourself, you can hire a plumber to handle it.
If a damaged tap causes the leak, you may need to replace the entire fixture. It can be a bit more complicated, but it’s still a relatively simple fix that a plumber can do. Addressing the issue immediately is essential to prevent damage and expense.
Wrapping Up
Leaking taps may seem like a minor issue, but with the information mentioned above in mind, they can lead to significant damage and expense if left unchecked. By addressing the problem as soon as possible, you can save yourself money and prevent further damage to your home. If you need professional assistance, don’t hesitate to call a plumber. It’s better to be safe than sorry about your home and health.
