The frequent “plop” sound from the leaking tap in your bathroom or kitchen can be irritating, especially if you’re trying to concentrate on your work. For light sleepers, this sound is enough to spoil a few of their nights until the emergency plumbers service in Geelong arrive for repairs.
But how good would it be if you knew how to repair the leaky pipes? We aren’t speaking of the significant damages but the tiny leaks. If you wish to do so, you must first understand the type of taps and the specific technique for repairing them. In this blog, we bring both of these to your service. So, let’s start-
Understanding Tap Types
To kick things off, you must familiarise yourself with the anatomy of your tap. There are essentially two types: the traditional washer tap and the more modern ceramic tap. Both can be fixed effortlessly by following a few simple steps.
Washer Taps: Tools of the Trade
Traditional taps, adorned with a disc-shaped washer, demand periodic attention. These washers are composed of materials like nylon, rubber, or fibre and are prone to wear and tear. Thankfully, you need not summon the finest plumber for pipe relining in Geelong to fix it because fixing it is a breeze.
Tools You Will Need to Change the Leaking Washer Tap
- Adjustable spanner
- C wrench
- Cross-headed Screwdriver
- Replacement Washer
- O Ring
- Lubricant (WD-40 or a similar one)
- Rags to clean the mess
Washer Taps: Step-by-Step Resolution
Halt the Water Supply
Before you delve into the intricate workings of your tap, it’s imperative to put a temporary pause on the water supply. A flooded scenario is easily averted by either closing the isolation valve or turning off the mains. If the whereabouts of these valves elude you, a quick call to a local plumber can offer expert guidance, ensuring a seamless beginning to your DIY endeavour.
Unscrew the Tap
The initial move involves delicately prying off the decorative cover that conceals the inner workings of your tap. A trusty screwdriver is your companion in this task. With the cover removed, proceed to detach the faucet handle, revealing the inner mechanisms. Utilising a spanner, carefully loosen the packing nut to liberate the stem from its housing.
Remove the Washer
As you venture further, the core culprit, the washer, comes into focus. Situated right beneath the valve, alongside the O ring, this is where the leakage typically originates. Employ your screwdriver and spanner combo to delicately unscrew and remove the washer. Should this prove a tad tricky, a touch of lubricant, such as WD-40, can be applied, allowing it to soak for a brief period. This often eases the removal process, ensuring a smoother experience.
Replace the Washer
Once the worn-out or compromised washer is in your hands, it’s time for a seamless substitution. If the washer displays signs of wear and tear or appears loose, opting for a replacement is the key. Additionally, don’t overlook the O ring; it’s prudent to replace both components simultaneously to safeguard against future leaks. Ensure that the new washer and O ring are a perfect match in size, ensuring a snug fit for optimal functionality.
Assemble the Tap
With the defective components replaced, it’s time to piece everything back together. Reattach the stem into its housing, secure the packing nut with the spanner, and reinstate the faucet handle. As the final touch, don’t forget to return the decorative cover to its rightful place. Now, with bated breath, turn on the water supply and observe with satisfaction as your tap resumes its duty without the irritating accompaniment of persistent drips.
Ceramic Taps
Modern taps, featuring a durable ceramic cartridge, offer prolonged efficiency. Recognisable by their 90° motion, these taps require minimal maintenance.
Tools Required to Repair a Leaking Ceramic Tap
- Allen Wrench
- Screwdriver
- Groove joint pliers
- Old Toothbrush
- Replacement Ceramic Cartridge
- O Rings
- Silicon Grease
Ceramic Taps: Step-by-Step Resolution
Halt the Water Supply: Precision in Precaution
Begin by shutting off the water supply, a step akin to its washer counterpart. This meticulous action ensures a controlled environment, preventing potential flooding during the repair process. Allow any remaining water in the pipes to flow out by turning on the tap.
Remove the Decorative Knob: Unveiling Elegance
With a sense of finesse, elevate the decorative cap, revealing the set screw beneath. An Allen wrench becomes your tool of choice to delicately disengage the decorative knob. This step unveils the inner workings of the ceramic tap, setting the stage for the upcoming interventions.
Pull out the Cartridge: The Core of Precision
The ceramic cartridge, a central component in modern taps, is gently loosened using groove joint pliers. The upward extraction of the cartridge exposes the seal at its base, a critical area prone to sediment buildup. This meticulous inspection sets the tone for determining whether a replacement is necessary.
Replace the O Ring: A Seal of Assurance
Beneath the ceramic cartridge lies the O ring, a small yet vital component that contributes to the watertight integrity of the tap. Carefully removing and replacing the O ring is executed with precision, accompanied by the application of silicon grease. This not only ensures a snug fit but also guards against future leaks.
Insert the Cartridge: Assembling the Symphony
With the replaced or cleansed components in hand, reinsert the ceramic cartridge into its designated space. Tighten it securely with the groove joint pliers, creating a seamless connection. The decorative knob, akin to the final note in a symphony, is then fitted back into place, completing the assembly.
Turn on the Water Mains: Testing the Waters
Before declaring victory, the final step involves restoring the water supply. Turning on the water mains allows you to observe the fruits of your labour. A keen eye is essential at this stage, as any persisting drips indicate a need for professional assistance.
In Conclusion
Mastering the art of fixing a dripping tap can be a game-changer. While these tips offer practical solutions, if the issue persists or hints at a more significant problem, don’t hesitate to connect with the seasoned plumbers at Your Local Plumbing & Drainage. With years of plumbing expertise, they stand as reliable emergency plumbers in Geelong and surrounding areas, ensuring your plumbing woes meet a swift resolution.
Also Read: Plumber Belmont: Common Plumbing Problems and Effective Solutions
