Learn When to Fix a Faucet and When to Call a Plumber
A faucet that won’t turn off can be more than an annoyance—it can lead to wasted water and higher utility bills. Whether it’s a kitchen faucet, bathtub faucet, or bathroom faucet, a dripping faucet can also cause water damage. But hey, the good news is many times there are simple solutions to get your faucet handle back into the off position.
Understanding the common reasons behind a running faucet and how to fix it can save you from more severe plumbing issues. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the first steps to take when your faucet won’t turn off. Then find out when it’s best to call a professional plumber to avoid further complications. Let’s dive in!
Understanding Why a Faucet Won’t Turn Off
When your faucet won’t turn off, there could be several reasons. The most common issue is a problem with the faucet handle or stem. These are the moving parts that control the flow of water, and over time, they can wear out from regular use. This wear and tear can cause the handle to slip or get stuck, preventing it from reaching the off position.
Another common reason is a worn-out washer. In many types of faucets, especially compression faucets, rubber washers help create a tight seal to stop water flow. When these washers wear down, they may not function as they should, leading to a leaky faucet. Similarly, a damaged or corroded valve seat can prevent the faucet from closing completely, causing water to drip or flow slower.
Mineral buildup from hard water can also be a culprit, affecting the faucet’s handle and internal components. When mineral deposits accumulate around the faucet’s stem, it can make it difficult to turn the handle. Also, it can cause stripped threads, leading to a running faucet.
Lastly, if the faucet cartridge is worn or damaged, it can cause the faucet to leak or remain stuck in the on position. Cartridge faucets are standard in many modern sink faucets and shower faucets. If the cartridge is the problem, replacing it with a new cartridge might be the best solution.
Understanding these common causes can help you troubleshoot the issue. However, if you’re unsure or the problem persists, it’s always a good idea to call a professional plumber for further assistance.
Steps to Fix a Faucet That Won’t Turn Off
If your faucet won’t turn off, taking the proper steps to prevent water waste and potential damage is crucial. Before you start, remember to turn off the water supply to avoid flooding. Once you’ve done that, follow these steps to fix your faucet:
- Identify the Type of Faucet: Knowing whether you have a compression, cartridge, ball, or disc faucet helps determine the best approach to fixing it. Compression faucets use rubber washers, while cartridge faucets have replaceable cartridges that control water flow.
- Check the Faucet Handle: Sometimes, the faucet handle is loose or stripped, preventing it from turning correctly. Tighten any set screws with an Allen wrench or Phillips screwdriver to see if that resolves the issue. If the handle is damaged, you may need replacement handles from a local hardware store.
- Inspect the Valve Seat and Stem: Check the valve seat and stem for damage or mineral buildup if the faucet still leaks or won’t turn off. Use a flat-blade screwdriver to remove the cover plate and access these parts. A special wrench may be needed to remove the faucet stem for a closer inspection.
- Replace Worn-Out Parts: If you find that the washer, valve seat, or cartridge is worn out, replace them with new parts. You can find replacement parts at most hardware stores, but ensure they are compatible with your faucet’s brand and type.
- Reassemble and Test: Once you’ve replaced any faulty parts, reassemble the faucet and turn the water supply back on. Test the faucet to ensure it’s turning off and on correctly without leaks or dripping.
If these steps don’t fix the problem or you encounter a more complex issue, call a professional plumber. They can assess the situation and provide the best solution, ensuring your faucet functions properly.
Steps to Fix a Faucet That Won’t Turn Off
When your faucet won’t turn off, it can be both frustrating and wasteful. To fix the problem, you need to identify the cause and follow the correct steps. Here’s what you should do:
Turn Off the Water Supply: The first thing to do is to locate the main water shut-off valve or the local shut-off valve under the sink. This will prevent water from flowing while you work on the faucet handle and other parts. It’s crucial to do this to avoid water damage and flooding.
Inspect the Faucet Handle: Check the faucet handle for any signs of wear or damage. If the handle’s stem or set screw is stripped or broken, it can prevent the handle from turning off the water flow. Tighten the set screw with an Allen wrench or replace the handle if needed. Replacement handles are usually available at local hardware stores.
Examine the Faucet Cartridge: If your faucet has a cartridge, remove the handle and inspect the cartridge for signs of wear or damage. A worn-out cartridge can cause the faucet to stay in the on position or drip. Replace the cartridge with a new one, ensuring it matches the type and brand of your faucet. Cartridge faucets require specific tools, so make sure you have the right tools for the job.
Check the Valve Seat and Washer: If you’re dealing with a compression faucet, a worn-out washer or a damaged valve seat can cause leaks and prevent the faucet from turning off. Use a special wrench to remove the faucet stem and inspect these parts. Replace any worn or broken components, like a new washer or valve seat.
Reassemble and Test: Once you’ve replaced the faulty parts, reassemble the faucet and turn the water back on. Test the faucet to ensure it turns off correctly and that there are no leaks. If the problem persists, it’s time to call a professional plumber.
Following these steps should help you fix a faucet that won’t turn off. However, if you encounter complications or feel uncomfortable with the repairs, don’t hesitate to contact Complete Plumbing and Drain. They offer a wide range of solutions for plumbing issues and have the expertise to ensure your faucet is fixed correctly.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
Fixing a faucet that won’t turn off can be straightforward if you have the right tools and knowledge. However, there are times when you are going to want to call a professional. If you’ve followed the previous steps and your faucet still won’t turn off, or if you’ve encountered additional plumbing problems during your attempts to repair it, you should seek expert help.
One reason to call a professional plumber is when you can’t identify the cause of the problem. A damaged faucet handle or a worn-out cartridge might be easy to replace. But a more serious issue within the plumbing system might require specialized tools and expertise. A professional can quickly diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action.
Additionally, if you notice water damage, such as water spots on walls or ceilings, or if your water pressure seems lower than usual, it’s a sign that there could be a leak in the pipes. Leaks can cause significant damage over time and even lead to mold growth, which poses health risks. A professional plumber can perform leak detection and ensure the problem is resolved before it becomes worse.
Another scenario that calls for professional help is when you need to replace significant faucet parts. For instance, it could be the valve seat or the entire faucet cartridge. Some repairs require specialized tools, like brand-specific cartridge pullers or an understanding of how different faucet types work. A professional plumber will have the right tools and knowledge to fix the problem without causing further damage.
If you’re in the Tampa or Brandon areas and need professional plumbing services, Complete Plumbing and Drain is here to help. Our team of expert plumbers has decades of experience handling various plumbing issues, from simple faucet repairs to complex plumbing system problems. Whether you have a leaky faucet, a running faucet, or a faucet that won’t turn off, we can resolve the issue quickly and efficiently.
How Complete Plumbing and Drain Can Help
Complete Plumbing and Drain is your trusted partner for all plumbing issues, including a faucet that won’t turn off. With decades of experience and a team of expert plumbers, we offer a wide range of services to keep your plumbing system running smoothly. Whether its a faulty faucet handle, a worn-out washer, or a broken cartridge, we have the tools and expertise to fix it.
When your faucet won’t turn off, the first step is to determine the cause. Our professional plumbers can quickly identify whether the problem lies with the faucet’s stem, cartridge, or another part. If it’s a minor issue like a stripped set screw or a worn-out washer, we can repair it on the spot. Then, for more complex problems, such as damaged valve seats or significant leaks, we have the equipment and knowledge to handle the repairs effectively.
Complete Plumbing and Drain serves residential and commercial customers in Lakeland, Tampa, Brandon, and surrounding areas. We understand that plumbing problems can occur at any time. That is why we offer 24-hour emergency plumbing services to address urgent needs. If you’re facing a plumbing issue outside regular business hours, we’re here to help with a rapid response.
Our commitment to customer satisfaction means we provide quality service at a fair price. We understand that plumbing repairs can be stressful, so we strive to make the process as seamless as possible. When you choose Complete Plumbing and Drain, you can be confident that the job will be done right the first time.
Need Help with a Faucet That Won’t Turn Off? Call Complete Plumbing & Drain
When a faucet doesn’t turn off, it can lead to wasted water, higher water bills, and potential damage to your home. Understanding the problem and taking the right steps to fix it can prevent further plumbing issues. No one wants that!
However, if the problem persists or if you’re unsure about the repair process, it’s best to call a professional plumber.
Complete Plumbing and Drain is ready to help with all your plumbing needs, including faucets that won’t turn off, leaky faucets, and other common plumbing issues. Our team of expert plumbers provides reliable service with a rapid response.
Contact us today for professional plumbing services in Tampa, Brandon, and surrounding areas. We’re here to ensure your plumbing system is running smoothly.