A dripping tap is not only annoying but also it can burn a hole in your pocket! When a tap is continuously dripping, it is putting a lot of burden on your water bill, while damaging your property.
The only thing you can do is fix it ASAP before it turns into a colossal disaster.
Fixing a tap can be simple if you follow the right steps to do it. In this article, you will get some vital tips to fix the dripping tap on the go.
Moreover, you have the option to seek professional help if things are out of your reach.
How to Find Out Whether the Tap is Washer-based or Cartridge-based?
You can find it easily by rotating the handle of the tap. If the handle turns more than a quarter or a half, then it is washer-based. On the other hand, if the handle gets stuck at a quarter or a half, then it is a ceramic one.
Worn out O-rings can also be the cause of dripping taps.
Is the tap still dripping even after replacing the washer? Check the O-rings and look for any damage.
Step 1: Turn the Water Supply Off
Before you start repairing the tap, you should turn off the water supply to prevent any further wastage of water. Generally, isolation valves or stopcocks are available under the sink, and you can turn it off quickly.
After turning off the valve, you should empty the remaining water in the tap’s pipe.
Step 2: Unscrew the Tap
There is a screw in every tap that holds the handle and the tap together. You need to unscrew it to make any repairs. Generally, the screw is located underneath the cap of the tap. You can remove these caps to access the screw.
A Pro Tip: We suggest you use a sink plug before unscrewing anything as it will prevent the screws from flowing down the drain.
Step 3: Take Out these Parts
Now you have to take out the parts unscrewed to access the valve. You will see a metal cover that is protecting the valve. Take it off and arrange all items accordingly, so it’s easy to put them back together.
Step 4: Prepare to Replace the Ceramic Disc
After taking off the metal shroud, you will see the ceramic valve. You need to take it off using an adjustable spanner until it gets loose. Now install the replacement ceramic disc and tighten it with the wrench.
Check everything thoroughly before moving to the next step.
Step 5: Replace the Washer
When replacing the ceramic disc, you will be able to access the rubber washer. Check whether it is worn out or not to determine its replacement. Put a new rubber washer, and tighten the valve.
Step 6: Replace the O-Ring
O-rings are found at the bottom of the spout. You need to unscrew the grub screw, which is located at the bottom of the tap spout. Carefully lift it off to see the O-rings. Now take out a flathead screwdriver and start loosening these rings. You can even use a pair of scissors to tear these rubberized rings apart.
Put the new O-rings before screwing the grub screw back in place.
Things You Need:
These are the tools and equipment you need to fix the leakage problem
- Scissors
- Cross-head screwdrivers and slot
- An adjustable spanner
- O-rings, assorted washers, and replacement cartridge
Final Thoughts
Before screwing everything back, inspect whether the parts are placed correctly, as you have to repeat the process if anything is out of place. Use branded products for O-rings, and valves as these last longer.
Leaky faucet means watching your money go down the drain. If you are finding it hard to fix the dripping problem, then you can contact us to book a plumber to repair your plumbing problem.
We can replace the faulty parts for you, or you can even get the whole tap replaced by our professional plumbers.
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