A leaking tap isn’t just an annoyance; it wastes water and can raise your utility bills. Whether it’s a slow drip or a more serious issue, fixing a leaking tap is a manageable DIY task. This guide walks you through the most common tap types, how to diagnose the issue, and how to make repairs efficiently.
Understanding Tap Types
Before diving into repairs, it’s essential to identify the type of tap you have. Each type requires slightly different techniques for fixing leaks:
Compression Taps – These taps use rubber washers to stop water flow. A telltale sign is that they require multiple turns to fully open or close.
Ceramic Disc Taps – These taps use ceramic plates instead of washers and operate with just a half turn.
Cartridge Taps – Common in mixer taps, they feature a cartridge that regulates water flow.
Ball Taps – Typically used in kitchen faucets, they use a ball mechanism to control temperature and water flow.
How to Fix a Leaking Tap (Step-by-Step Guide)
Gather Your Tools and Materials
Before starting, ensure you have the following:
Adjustable wrench
Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips)
Replacement washers or cartridges
Plumber’s grease
Needle-nose pliers
Allen key (for certain models)
Turn Off the Water Supply
Locate the valve under the sink or turn off the main water supply to your house. Open the tap to drain any remaining water and plug the sink to avoid losing small parts down the drain.
Dismantle the Tap
For Compression Taps: Use a screwdriver to remove the tap handle, exposing the valve. Then, use a wrench to unscrew the valve.
For Ceramic Disc Taps: Pry off the handle cap, remove the screw with an Allen key, and pull out the valve.
For Ball or Cartridge Taps: Unscrew the retaining nut or collar and carefully pull out the cartridge or ball mechanism.
Inspect the Components
Examine the washers, O-rings, or cartridges. Common signs of wear include cracks, flattening, or mineral build-up. In ceramic taps, inspect the discs for cracks or scratches.
Replace the Damaged Part
Compression Taps: Remove the old washer with pliers and install a new one.
Ceramic Disc Taps: Clean or replace the ceramic disc if it’s damaged.
Cartridge Taps: Take the old cartridge to a hardware store to find an exact replacement.
Ball Taps: Use a ball replacement kit to renew all seals and springs as required.
Apply Plumber’s Grease
Lubricate the moving parts with the plumber’s grease before reassembling the tap to ensure smooth operation and prevent future leaks.
Reassemble and Test the Tap
Reverse the dismantling process to put the tap back together. Slowly turn the water back on and check for leaks. If the tap continues to drip, ensure all components are correctly aligned and tightened.
Troubleshooting Tips
Tighten Loose Nuts: If the tap still leaks, it might be due to a loose nut beneath the handle. Tighten it carefully using a wrench.
Use Plumber’s Putty: For older taps without washers, applying the plumber’s putty around the stem assembly can help seal minor leaks.
Mineral Build-Up: For stubborn leaks, soak parts in vinegar to dissolve mineral deposits that could interfere with seals.
Fixing a Leaky Tap Base
A leaky tap base is often caused by a loose fitting or a worn-out washer. Here’s how to fix it:
Turn Off the Water Supply: Turn off the water supply under the sink.
Tighten the Fittings: Use an adjustable wrench to tighten the fittings around the tap base.
Replace the Washer: If tightening the fittings doesn’t fix the leak, you may need to replace the washer. This involves disassembling the tap base and replacing the worn-out washer with a new one.
Reassemble the Tap Base: Reassemble the tap base and tighten the fittings.
Turn on the Water Supply: Slowly turn on the water supply and check for leaks.
FAQs
What are the different types of leaking taps?
There are four main types of leaking taps:
Dripping tap: This is the most common type of leak. The water drips from the faucet spout, even when the tap is turned off.
Running tap: This type of leak is more serious than a dripping tap. The water runs continuously, even when the tap is turned off.
Leaking tap stem: This type of leak occurs when the washer or seal around the tap stem is worn out or damaged.
Leaking tap cartridge: This type of leak occurs when the cartridge, which is the internal mechanism that controls the flow of water, is worn out or damaged.
How to fix a dripping tap
If your tap is dripping, you can usually fix it yourself. Here are the steps:
Turn off the water supply to the tap.
Remove the faucet handle.
Remove the old washer.
Install a new washer.
Reassemble the tap.
Turn on the water supply and check for leaks.
If the leak is still present, you may need to replace the tap stem or cartridge.
How to fix a running tap
If your tap is running, you will need to call a plumber to fix it. Running taps are usually caused by more serious problems, such as a broken pipe or a faulty valve.
How to fix a leaking tap stem
To fix a leaking tap stem, you will need to remove the tap stem and replace the washer or seal. This is a more difficult job than fixing a dripping tap, so it is best to hire a plumber to do it for you.
How to fix a leaking tap cartridge
To fix a leaking tap cartridge, you will need to remove the tap cartridge and replace it with a new one. This is a more difficult job than fixing a dripping tap or a leaking tap stem, so it is best to hire a plumber to do it for you.
In Summary
Fixing a leaking tap is a straightforward process if you have the right tools and know what to look for. By identifying the type of tap and replacing worn parts such as washers, cartridges, or O-rings, you can resolve most leaks without calling a plumber. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs also help you save water and avoid more costly issues down the road. If you encounter difficulties or if the tap continues to leak despite your best efforts, don’t hesitate to consult a professional plumber.
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