Back to blogs

May 19, 2025

Spot Problems Early: Here's How to Check Your Faucets

Estimated Read Time: 3 minutes

Introduction

Maintaining your home's plumbing system isn't just about responding to problems as they arise; it's about preventive care to avoid those headaches in the first place. A great example of this is focusing on your faucets. These small fixtures, when not maintained, can lead not only to inconvenience but also expensive repairs. As Robert T. from Colorado Springs shared, "Matt did a fantastic job tightening a loose kitchen faucet handle. I couldn't do it myself because I didn't have the right tools. He was efficient and a true plumber"[2].

Detecting Common Faucet Issues

1. Leaks and Dripping

One of the most common issues with faucets is leaks. While a small drip might seem insignificant, it can lead to water wastage and even increase your monthly utility bills. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, fixing easily corrected household water leaks can save homeowners about 10% on their water bills.

  • Test for Leaks: Turn off all appliances using water. Record the water meter reading and check after two hours. If it has changed, you might have a leak.
  • Listen for Drips: Listen for dripping sounds when the faucet is turned off. It might indicate loosened bolts or worn-out washers.

2. Low Water Pressure

As Don R. found out, "Proper furnishing sizing is critical; incorrect settings drastically affected our water pressure"[1]. Low water pressure might suggest a clogged aerator or pipes.

  • Check the Aerator: Unscrew the aerator from the faucet and clean any debris.
  • Inspect Supply Lines: Ensure valves are fully opened and there are no visible cracks or damage on the pipes.

DIY Maintenance Tips

1. Regular Cleaning

Hard water deposits and debris can block your faucet, affecting its efficiency and lifespan.

  • Vinegar Soak: For mineral build-up, unscrew the affected parts and soak them in vinegar overnight, then scrub crystals away with a soft brush.
  • Routine Wipe-Down: Regularly wiping faucets with a dry cloth can prevent damage from minerals and contaminants.

2. Washer Replacement

Faucet washers can degrade over time due to the heavy use and pressure they're subjected to.

  • Tools Needed: Screwdriver, replacement washers.
  • Procedure: Turn off the water supply, unscrew the faucet's handle, and replace old washers with new ones.

Professional Assistance

Spotting the signs early is important, but sometimes a professional touch is required. Chelsea W. experienced an unreliable heating system due to misinformation from other providers but found relief with WireNut Home Services: "Only they were able to dispatch someone the same day to look at our furnace"[0]. Choosing a provider like WireNut Home Services ensures that issues like leaky faucets are dealt with efficiently and professionally—a level of service that is praised by many in the community.

Conclusion

Regular maintenance can save you from larger problems down the line, enhancing the lifespan of your faucets and your property’s plumbing system. For those larger jobs or stubborn issues, remember that experts like those from WireNut Home Services are just a call away. Don’t wait for a drip to turn into a deluge; take a proactive approach and contact WireNut today at (719) 227-0500 or visit thewirenut.com to book a service!

© 2025 Website powered by Peakzi. All rights reserved.

v0.9.6