subject: How to Repair a Leaky Tap [print this page] How to Repair a Leaky Tap How to Repair a Leaky Tap
How to Repair a Leaky Tap
Tools Required
Flat Headed Screwdriver
Philips Screwdriver
Adjustable Spanner
Leaking taps are a nuisance for any home owner and in hard water areas they can also lead to stained basins and baths. A leaky tap is caused by the failure of the washer to form a water tight seal with the tap valve.
Most leaks can be repaired by replacing the washer. Which any competent DIY can tackle. In some cases the tap might need to be re-cut which any plumber can do.
First off you need to know which type of tap you are working on. In this tutorial were are working on standard taps. These are non-mixing taps. Monoblock or mixer taps have a cartridge type valve, which has to be replaced. These can be bought from the tap manufacturer.
You need to turn off the water supply to the tap you are working on. There should be an isolation valve for the tap normally under the unit. In some cases there may be no means of isolating the appliance. In these instances you need to turn the water off at the mains stop cock which is normally located under the kitchen sink.
Once the water is turned off open the tap to drain the water. Once the water has drained. Put the plug in, to prevent loss of parts. You need to get the cover off to get to the valve of the tap. Remove the plastic cover using a screwdriver.
Using a Spanner grab the body of the valve, hold the tap with your other hand to stop it moving. Push the Spanner anti-clockwise to undo valve, and remove. Remove the faulty washer a replace with a new washer, these can be bought from Plumbers Merchants. Re-assemble valve.
Leave the plastic cover off till you have charged the system with water and tested.
Well done you have now changed a tap washer.
If the tap is still dripping contact a plumber who will have to re-cut the tap, you can sometimes get a leak on the body of the valve. You can apply PTFE tape to this and re-assemble.
