Faucet Repair, Replacement & Installation
According to the EPA, a faucet leaking one drop per second wastes 250 gallons a month, or 3,000 gallons a year.
That’s roughly 176 showers or 1,875 low-flush toilet flushes.
Handier homeowners can manage some faucet repairs, like replacing an O-ring, but most require a plumber’s expertise.
An O-ring replacement might take a few minutes and cost a few dollars in parts. But if the problem lies with the faucet’s stem or cartridge, you face a more complicated repair.
When to Call Us for Faucet Repair
Are you experiencing these issues?
- Leaking: A leaking faucet might need a new washer or O-ring. But if the leak comes from the handle or base, it could mean a more serious problem like corrosion.
- Low water pressure: A clogged aerator is usually the culprit. Try cleaning it with vinegar. If that doesn’t work, then you might need a new faucet.
- A dripping faucet: A dripping faucet is annoying and a waste of water. Call us to find out what’s causing the drip.
- Difficulty turning the handle: Over time, mineral buildup can make it hard to turn the handle. This easy fix requires only a few minutes of our time.
- A malfunctioning smart or motion-activated faucet: Smart faucet installation and repair is a job for professionals and not a DIY project.
Repair vs. Replacement: When to Know
The humble faucet is one of the most-used fixtures in your home. Wear and tear will take its toll; eventually, you’ll have to replace it. But when exactly?
Here are some things to consider:
Your Faucet’s Age
It might be time for an upgrade if your faucet is an older model that constantly needs repairs.
The Cost of Parts & Labor
The faucet might need a new washer or O-ring. Easy peasy. But some parts cost almost as much as a new faucet, and then there’s labor to boot. Replacing the fixture makes more sense in this case.
The Overall Condition of Your Faucet
If your faucet shows corrosion and mineral buildup, a brand-new unit will work better and look like it belongs in your updated kitchen or bathroom.
Cosmetic Damage
A minor chip or scratch won’t affect the function of your faucet, but it mars its appearance. Ask us about replacement options, then do a cost-benefit analysis.
Functionality & Aesthetics
If you’re planning a kitchen or bathroom update, you might find great deals on quality faucets that complement your new look.
Water Pressure
Mineral buildup can clog the aerator, reducing water flow. Unscrew the aerator and clean it with vinegar. If that doesn’t work, it might be time for a new faucet.
Your Home’s Value
Upgrading to faucets might boost the resale value of your home. But if you’re not planning to move anytime soon, there’s no hurry to upgrade.
The 5 Types of Faucets We Install
Standard faucets include compression, cartridge, ceramic disc, and ball. Smart faucets are standard for office restrooms and increasingly common in Orange County homes.
1. Compression Faucets
Compression faucets have two handles, one for hot water and one for cold. Each handle is attached to a valve stem that opens and closes the water flow. A rubber washer inside the valve stem acts as a seal. Over the years, these washers wear out, causing leaks.
2. Cartridge Faucets
Cartridge faucets also have two handles, but instead of a washer, they contain a cartridge with rubber seals and springs. As you turn the handle, the cartridge moves up or down, opening and closing the water flow.
3. Ceramic Disc Faucets
Ceramic disc faucets are similar to cartridge faucets but have a more durable ceramic disc instead of a rubber seal. The disc is attached to the handle and sits on a stainless steel plate. As you turn the handle, the disc presses against the plate, opening or closing the water flow.
4. Ball Faucets
Ball faucets have a single handle that controls hot and cold water. Inside the faucet’s body is a ball with a hole in the center. As you turn the handle, the ball rotates, opening or closing the water flow.
5. Hands-Free & Smart Faucets
Health concerns make hands-free faucets almost obligatory for businesses, but more and more homeowners are installing smart faucets for their convenience and water conservation benefits.
- Motion sensors faucets are activated by hand swipes and shut off automatically.
- One-touch faucets activate with the tap of a finger.
- Voice-enabled faucets respond to vocal commands to turn on the water, adjust the temperature, and shut the water off.
Benefits of Professional Faucet Installation vs. DIY
You might be tempted to install your new faucet DIY to save a few bucks. But unless you’re a professional plumber, we don’t recommend it. Here’s why:
- Time: It might take several hours (or even all day) to install the faucet, depending on your skill level. A professional can do it in 30 minutes or less.
- Money: If you make a mistake, you might have to buy more parts, which will cost you more in the long run. Plus, you may have to pay someone to fix your mistakes.
- Potential damage: If you’re not careful, you could damage your sink, countertop, or plumbing. A professional knows how to avoid the pitfalls of faucet installation.
- Stress: Why add more stress to your life? Let us handle it so you can relax.
Schedule an appointment with us, and we’ll send a licensed plumber to your home to take a look and give you a free estimate. We install all types of faucets and can help you choose the right one for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions about Faucet Repair
How much does it cost to repair a faucet?
Some repairs can be done quickly with just a few replacement parts, while others may require complex work or even the replacement of the entire fixture. Please contact us for an estimate.
Do I need to replace my faucet?
It depends on the extent of damage and your specific needs. In some cases, repairing a broken faucet is more cost-effective than replacing it.
Is a leaky faucet a big deal?
A leaky faucet can waste up to 20 gallons of water per day. This increases your utility bills and wastes a precious natural resource. Leaking taps can also pose a risk for mold growth.
Does insurance cover a leaky faucet?
In general, faucet repairs are not covered by homeowner insurance. Please contact your insurance provider for more information.
Do you offer warranties on faucets?
Yes, select brands of faucets come with warranties, but not all. Orange Coast Plumbing also guarantees all work with 100% satisfaction.
Why is my tap still dripping?
A dripping tap is usually caused by a worn washer, valve stem, or debris in the faucet. We can’t tell you more without inspecting the faucet.
What kind of maintenance does my faucet require?
Most faucet types will need periodic cleaning and inspection to ensure they’re in good working order. You should also check for signs of leaks and corrosion and replace worn parts.
Can you change a faucet without turning off the water?
We’ll turn the water off locally, not the main water supply, to make the installation or repair. However, this may not be possible, depending on the severity of the problem.
What are the signs of a faulty faucet?
The most common signs of a faulty faucet include leaking, dripping, corrosion, and low water pressure.
How often should I replace my faucets?
You should replace your faucets when the parts are too damaged to repair, when you want a different style or finish, or when there’s a noticeable decrease in water pressure. Most faucets last between 10 and 20 years, depending on the type of faucet and how well it’s maintained.
What's the difference between a faucet stem and a cartridge?
The faucet stem is the part that connects to the water supply and holds the cartridge in place. The cartridge controls the flow of water and can be replaced when necessary.
How do you know when a faucet cartridge needs to be replaced?
A worn cartridge will often cause problems such as leaks, low water pressure, or difficulty turning the faucet on or off. We can usually replace the cartridge without replacing the entire fixture.
How can I tell what kind of faucet stem I have?
You can search for the part number online. If Google can’t help, our manufacturer catalogs will.
Do you install touchless faucets?
Yes, we offer a variety of touchless faucets that make it easy to control your water with the wave of a hand.
What are the benefits of touchless faucets?
Touchless faucets offer convenience and better hygiene since you don’t physically touch anything but the water stream. They also use less water and help make your home or office more efficient.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call us today.