Has your faucet stopped working? If you want to fix the problem at the source but aren't sure where to look, here are six possible reasons why water isn't coming from your faucet.

Closed Valve

When water fails to come from a faucet, a closed main valve is one potential cause. This valve, located near the water main, regulates the water supply to the house and might be turned off during maintenance work or repairs. 

If one faucet is affected while others have running water, the issue may lie with the individual valve under the sink or bathroom faucets. Turning the valve counter-clockwise usually restores water flow. In cases of widespread interruption, contacting your water company can help determine if external factors are involved.

Obstructed Pipe

Clogged pipes are another reason for water not coming through the taps. Heavy metal deposits, sediment buildup, or debris inside plumbing pipes can block water flow. Hard water can exacerbate the issue by causing mineral deposits to restrict flow, particularly in older systems. 

In a worst-case scenario, severe corrosion can lead to completely blocked pipes, preventing water from reaching bathroom faucets or other taps. A professional plumber can use video inspection tools to locate and remove the blockage.

Water Heater Issue

If cold water flows but hot water does not, your water heater might be malfunctioning. Sediment buildup inside the tank can block the outlet or cause the unit to overheat, reducing water pressure in the hot water lines. In some cases, the heater's heating element might be broken, further restricting flow. 

Flushing the tank regularly helps prevent water heater issues caused by sediment and keeps water flowing freely. If hot water remains unavailable, hiring plumbing services to repair or replace the unit may be necessary.

Plumbing Leak

Leaks in plumbing pipes or water supply lines allow water to escape before reaching the taps, causing reduced water flow or no water at all. Physical damage, such as cracks or loose joints, often leads to such leaks. If you spot any dripping pipes under the sink, you've likely found the source of the problem.

Faulty Faucet

An old, worn-out, or damaged faucet can also restrict water flow. For instance, issues like a clogged aerator, worn tap washer, or rusted internal components often block water flow at one faucet while other faucets work properly. 

Hard water buildup inside the faucet mechanism can also contribute to the problem, causing dripping or reduced flow. Cleaning or replacing the faulty parts usually resolves the plumbing problem.

Frozen Pipe

Frozen pipes prevent water flow by blocking water inside the plumbing system. This problem often occurs during freezing temperatures, especially in uninsulated sections of the house or exposed garden hose connections. 

As ice forms, it expands, creating pressure that restricts flow or causes the pipe to burst. Preventing frozen pipes involves insulating vulnerable sections and flushing water through taps during cold spells. If pipes freeze, promptly thawing them and checking for leaks can avoid further damage.

Have a Faucet Problem? Benjamin Franklin Plumbing Can Help!

Faucet issues can really throw a wrench in your day-to-day routines—but when our professional plumbers are only a phone call away, you won't have to live with this inconvenience for very long! 

Benjamin Franklin Plumbing fixes faucets, performs plumbing repairs, and can even address water heater repairs in Doylestown to ensure you can get water when you need it. Give us a call today to schedule one of our services for your home!