A leaking or malfunctioning faucet can be more than just an annoyance—it can waste water, increase your utility bills, and even lead to more serious plumbing problems. If you’re facing faucet troubles in Surrey, you’re not alone! Many homeowners deal with similar issues. The good news? Some of these problems have quick and easy fixes.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through five common faucet problems and how you can fix them—whether it’s a DIY solution or a situation that needs a Surrey plumber like Guru Plumbing.
1. Dripping Faucet
The Problem:
A dripping faucet is one of the most common plumbing issues. It may seem like a minor inconvenience, but even a slow drip can waste hundreds of liters of water per year and increase your water bill.
The Quick Fix:
- Replace the Washer or O-ring: In most cases, a worn-out washer or O-ring inside the faucet is causing the leak.
- Check for Valve Seat Corrosion: If the leak persists, the valve seat may be corroded and need cleaning or replacement.
- Tighten Loose Parts: Sometimes, the leak is due to a loose nut or fitting.
When to Call a Surrey Plumber: If replacing washers or O-rings doesn’t stop the leak, it could be a more serious issue with the valve seat or faucet body—time to call Guru Plumbing!
2. Low Water Pressure
The Problem:
If your faucet suddenly has weak water flow, it could be due to mineral buildup, a clogged aerator, or pipe issues.
The Quick Fix:
- Clean the Aerator:
- Unscrew the aerator (the small screen at the tip of the faucet).
- Rinse it under water or soak it in vinegar for 30 minutes to remove mineral deposits.
- Reattach it and check the water pressure.
- Check for Pipe Leaks: If multiple faucets have low pressure, you might have a plumbing leak.
When to Call a Plumber: If cleaning the aerator doesn’t work and other faucets are also affected, you might have a pipe blockage or a water supply issue—time to call the experts!
3. Noisy Faucet (Whistling or Screeching Sounds)
The Problem:
If your faucet makes a whistling, screeching, or banging sound, it’s likely due to high water pressure or a worn-out washer or valve.
The Quick Fix:
- Replace the Washer or Cartridge: If your faucet has an old, damaged washer or cartridge, it may cause a screeching noise. Replacing it should help.
- Adjust Water Pressure:
- If the sound is caused by high water pressure, consider installing a pressure regulator.
- You can also check your main shutoff valve to ensure it’s not fully open, which can increase water pressure.
Call a Trusted Plumber: If the noise persists, the issue could be within your plumbing system, requiring professional inspection.
4. Faucet Handle Won’t Turn Properly
The Problem:
Is your faucet handle stiff, loose, or hard to turn? This is usually caused by mineral buildup, a damaged cartridge, or a worn-out stem inside the faucet.
The Quick Fix:
- Clean the Handle and Cartridge:
- Remove the faucet handle and soak it in vinegar to dissolve mineral deposits.
- If the issue continues, the cartridge or valve stem may need replacement.
- Lubricate the Stem: If your handle is hard to turn, applying plumber’s grease to the stem can help smooth the movement.
When to contact a Plumbing Professional: If the faucet handle is completely stuck or won’t shut off the water, it’s best to replace the entire cartridge.
5. Rust or Discolored Water from Faucet
The Problem:
If brown or rusty water comes out of your faucet, it’s a sign of corroded pipes, sediment buildup, or issues with your water heater.
The Quick Fix:
- Flush Your Pipes: Run the water for a few minutes to see if the discoloration clears up.
- Check Other Faucets: If all your taps have brown water, it may be a problem with your water supply.
- Inspect Your Water Heater: If the issue occurs only with hot water, your water heater may have sediment buildup.
It’s time to call the plumber: If the rust-colored water persists, it could mean corroded pipes or serious plumbing issues—Guru Plumbing can diagnose and fix the problem before it gets worse!
Get Expert Faucet Repair with Guru Plumbing in Surrey!
A small faucet problem can turn into a major plumbing issue if left unchecked. While some quick fixes can help, some problems require the expertise of a trusted Surrey plumber. At Guru Plumbing, we specialize in faucet repair, leak detection, and full plumbing services in Surrey. Whether it’s a dripping tap, low water pressure, or rust-colored water, we’ve got you covered!
Need a fast, reliable faucet repair? Contact Guru Plumbing today! Serving all of Surrey and surrounding areas.
