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Faucets are used so much that it’s no wonder they sometimes leak or drip. A leaking or dripping faucet is generally a sign that a part is worn and needs to be replaced—usually a fairly simple task.
The washers or seals of compression faucets are under pressure as water flows through them, so they typically wear out. When they do, the result is usually relentless dripping that can corrode fixtures, stain sink bowls, and waste a lot of water if they are not fixed.
Disc, cartridge, and ball faucets are all washerless, so they are not as prone to dripping as compression faucets. They too have moving parts sealed by O-rings that wear out, though, evidenced by leaking from the base of the faucet itself.
Disc faucets leak when the inlet and outlet seals wear or when sediment builds up in the faucet inlets. Cartridge faucets leak when the O-ring cushioning the cartridge stem wears or breaks. When they drip it might mean the cartridge needs replacing. Be sure the replacement cartridge matches the original. Ball faucets drip when the inlet seals wear and leak when the O-rings wear or break.
Cleaning the Aerator
If water is not flowing strongly through your faucet, check the aerator. This device mixes air and water and can become blocked with mineral build-up. Unscrew the aerator and replace or clean with a brush or toothpick.
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