How Much Water Does a Leaky Faucet Waste?

Do you suspect your faucet is leaking? Gladiator Services can help when you call 201-512-8971.

If you have a leaky faucet, you might feel the temptation to let it be. But how much water does a leaky faucet waste? Keep reading to discover why you should repair the leak.

As Hillsdale's leaky faucet repair and replacement specialists, Gladiator Services can save you money by fixing your leaky faucet. You won't find a more capable or professional plumber.

How Much Water Am I Wasting?

Whether you're experiencing a dripping shower head or a running toilet, the amount of water waste remains roughly the same. To make the calculation easy, assume the water drips at a rate of once per second. This adds up to 31,536,000 drips per year.

With an average volume of a quarter millimeter per drop, this means the faucet wastes five gallons of water every day, or just over 2,000 gallons per year. That equals over 150 showers. If the faucet drips faster, you're wasting even more water and needlessly increasing your water bill. Fixing the leak can save you around 10% on your utility bill.

Signs You Have a Leaky Faucet

If you're wondering, "How much water does a leaky faucet waste?" look for these signs you're at risk.

Increased Water Usage

You can notice increased water usage in three primary ways:

• If you examine your water bill and find yourself using roughly 150 more gallons every month than normal, it's likely due to a leak.
• Check your water meter. If its usage number ticks up even when no one is using water, it's most likely from a leak in your plumbing.
• If you notice an increase in your water bill disproportionate to your water usage, you have a leak. For example, if your intentional water usage increases by two percent, but your bill is 12% higher, look for a leak.

Water Damage

Left alone, a leaky faucet can cause significant water damage. The damage usually manifests in one of the following ways:

• Hard water stains: If you have hard water, you're probably familiar with the white calcification that builds up when the water evaporates. If you notice an increase in hard water stains in your faucet, it can signify a leak.
• Discoloration: When water pools, it can cause yellow or brown discoloration, especially if it leaks into your floor, walls, or ceiling.
• Rot and decay: Over time, standing water can rot the wood in your cabinets and floors. If the wooden features in your house are decaying, it's likely from a leak.
• Pooling: Is water pooling in your sink or shower even when it's not running? This is the most obvious sign of a leak.
• Mold and mildew: Eventually, a leaky faucet allows mold or mildew to grow. In addition to causing severe health problems, the mold damages your property. 

Dripping Noises

If you hear dripping noises when you're faucet isn't running, you definitely have a leak. Sure, your shower might drip for a short period after using it, but if the dripping persists long-term, you're wasting a lot of water.

Lower Water Pressure

A leaky faucet can lower the water pressure throughout your home. If you're unsatisfied with the power of your shower, sink, or hose, consider looking for a leak.

Preventing a Leaky Faucet

How can you prevent a leaky faucet? Consider practicing the following habits:

• Regularly clean the head of the faucet where the water comes out. Especially in homes with hard water, sediment can build up over time, restricting the water flow and slowly corroding the faucet.
• If you notice worn-out parts, replace them quickly to avoid further complications.
• Avoid installing faucets yourself. Always hire a plumber to install fixtures and schedule annual maintenance and inspection for your entire plumbing system.
• Install a water softener or whole-home water filtration system to prevent the damage that comes with hard water.
• Use less water by practicing conservation tips. The less you use something, the longer it lasts.

Benefits of Fixing a Leaky Faucet

In general, it's best to call a professional to fix your leaky faucet. This prevents mistakes or complications that cause greater damage and end up costing you more than a simple faucet fix.

When you call a professional plumber to repair the leak, you gain the following benefits:

• Lower water bills: The most immediate effect of fixing your leak is less wasted water and the resulting lower water bills. Depending on the rate of your leak and the cost of water in your area, you could save up to $200 a month on your bill.
• Increased eco-friendliness: Water access and usage is an environmental issue, especially in areas under water rations due to drought. If environmental stewardship is important to you, repair leaks quickly.
• Lower repair costs: Over time, a leaky faucet can damage your faucet and the rest of your plumbing. When compared with the marginal cost of replacing the faucet, these damages are considerably more expensive and often require dipping into your savings or emergency fund.
• Guaranteed expertise: When you hire a professional plumber, you won't have any doubt the repairs are high quality and long-lasting. Even if you consider yourself a handy person, unless you're a professional plumber, there's always the risk you'll cause more damage than you fix.
• Increased well-being: If a leaky faucet causes mold, it can create serious issues with your health, such as respiratory issues, migraines, and more. The increased water bill can also cause stress or reduce your ability to sleep. Fixing the faucet avoids all this.
• Reduced property damage: If you want to avoid the expenses and stress from water damage, hire a plumber to fix the faucet quickly. It's much easier than repairing a rotting floor.

Call Gladiator Services to Repair Your Leaky Plumbing

How much water does a leaky faucet waste? Enough to seriously impact your water bill. With years of experience and a demonstrable history of integrity, Gladiator Services addresses a wide range of plumbing issues.

Gladiator Services can expertly repair your leaking faucet shower. Call 201-512-8971 to book an appointment today.