Why Is My Sink Leaking Underneath?

Don't incur water damage from a leaky sink. Call the professionals at Formica Plumbing & Sewer Co. for fast, reliable repairs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment. 

Imagine opening the cabinet below your sink and finding a pool of water. If you're ever in this situation, the first thing you'll want to know is, "Why is my sink leaking underneath?" Learn what causes this issue and how you can minimize the damage in this helpful guide. 

The team at Formica Plumbing & Sewer Co. reveals why this common problem occurs. If you experience a pipe leak beneath your sink, contact our trusted plumbers in Painesville OH, for a long-lasting solution. 

Clogged Drain Pipes

Is the water in your sink starting to drain slower than usual? There's likely a clog somewhere in the system that is preventing wastewater from flowing through the system. Clogged drain pipes are a common issue for many homeowners as any of the following debris can collect within drains:

• Hair
• Grease
• Food residue
• Soap residue

When these items clog the drain, the water will back up and eventually cause the sink to leak underneath. You can prevent this issue by keeping these items out of the sink whenever possible. A drain stopper collects much of this residue, so clogs don't form within the pipe. 

If you suspect that your drain has a blockage, contact a plumber who can perform a drain cleaning service. It's much safer to have experts clear your pipes of any debris than relying on chemical drain cleaners. The harsh chemicals in these products can damage your pipes, whereas plumbers know the right technique to remove a clog without impacting your plumbing. 

Loose Connections

If you're wondering, "Why is my sink leaking underneath?" the answer could be due to loose nuts and bolts. These connections help keep the plumbing system in place but can become loose over time. Regular wear and tear may impact the tightness of the pipe's nuts and bolts.

It's also possible for these connections to shake loose because of vibrations from nearby appliances. For example, if you frequently run your dishwasher and it produces heavy vibrations, it could lead to a leak beneath your kitchen sink. Thankfully, this is a quick fix, as plumbers just need to tighten the nuts and bolts to prevent future leaks. 

Damaged Seals

The seals around your pipes must be in good condition to effectively keep water from escaping. Any worn-out or damaged seals, such as a washer or O-ring, will not be able to contain water inside the pipes. The more the seal starts to loosen or deteriorate, the greater the water leak. 

These pieces tend to become loose over time. To prevent leaks, periodically check that each seal is in good condition. Quickly replace any damaged seal before the problem escalates and you face a significant leak. 

Corroded Valves

Are you wondering, "Why is my sink leaking underneath if there are no damaged seals, loose connections, or clogs present?" The next culprit is a corroded valve.

Your plumbing system uses a series of valves to hold pipes together and control water flow. If one of these valves corrodes, it will no longer be able to contain the water, and you'll soon notice a puddle forming underneath your sink.

The primary valve that often causes leaks is the valve seat, which connects the faucet and spout. Have a plumber check your system periodically to prevent corrosion and leaks. 

High Water Pressure

Weak water pressure is often a cause for concern and indicates something is going on within your plumbing system. However, high water pressure can be just as alarming. If your pipes can't handle the water pressure, they're susceptible to bursting. 

Monitor the strength at which water flows from your sink. If the pressure puts too much strain on your pipes, you'll likely be facing a leak. A good rule of thumb for most homes is to have the water pressure between 40 and 60 pounds per square inch. 

Improper Installation

If you have a brand-new sink and find that it suddenly needs a leak repair, the problem could stem from poor installation. Find a reputable plumber if you have to install a new sink so you can avoid unnecessary leaks. Replacing a sink yourself may cause further damage to the plumbing system. 

Dangers of Leaking Sinks

Did you know that the average household plumbing leak wastes 10,000 gallons of water every year? This is detrimental to the environment and amounts to more than a trillion gallons of wasted water throughout the country every year. 

Having excess water flow throughout your home can have a huge impact on your water bill. Even a minor leak can cause the costs to climb steadily. You'll need to pay even more to repair any water damage to your home as a result of a leak. 

Why Schedule Professional Plumbing Repairs?

Aside from, "Why is my sink leaking underneath?" one of the top questions homeowners have regarding this topic is, "How can I fix a leaking sink?" It's crucial to contact a professional plumber for repairs rather than attempt to fix the leak yourself. Licensed plumbers have all the equipment and skills necessary to correct the issue. 

If you don't have any formal training in repairing pipe leaks, you could end up causing more damage to your plumbing system. Reach out to a trusted plumbing contractor as soon as you notice the leak to minimize water damage. 

Contact Formica Plumbing & Sewer Co. for Professional Repairs and Installation

Now that you know the top causes of a leaky sink, you no longer have to wonder, "Why is my sink leaking underneath?" Turn to the experts at Formica Plumbing & Sewer Co. for the solution. We can tackle plumbing issues both big and small, from fixing a leaking shower faucet to installing a new water heater. 

No matter what your plumbing needs are, we're the right team for the job. Give us a call at 440-485-3850 to request immediate service. 

Author Bio:

Matt Formica

He worked side by side with his cousin, Frank D. and sister Linda, in the office. The company has grown and now has six vans helping the surrounding communities with plumbing and sewer issues.