A dripping tap is not just an annoyance; it can also lead to significant water waste and higher utility bills. Fortunately, fixing a dripping tap is often straightforward and doesnโt require professional help. With a few tools and basic plumbing knowledge, you can tackle this common household issue in no time. Hereโs a step-by-step guide to help you fix a dripping tap and save water.
Understanding the Problem: Why Do Taps Drip?
Before diving into the fix, itโs important to understand why taps drip. The most common causes include:
- Worn Washer: In traditional taps, the washer presses against the valve seat to stop water flow. Over time, this washer can wear out or get damaged.
- Damaged Valve Seat: Corrosion or wear on the valve seat can lead to leaks.
- Loose O-Ring: The O-ring, a small rubber ring at the base of the tapโs stem, can become loose or worn, causing drips.
- Faulty Cartridge: Mixer taps often use cartridges to control water flow. A damaged or worn cartridge can result in leaks.
Knowing the type of tap youโre dealing withโtraditional compression, mixer, or ball valveโwill help you identify the right fix.
Tools Youโll Need
To fix a dripping tap, youโll need the following tools:
- Adjustable wrench or spanner
- Screwdriver (flathead and Phillips)
- Replacement parts (washer, O-ring, or cartridge)
- Plumberโs tape (optional)
- Cleaning cloth
- Bucket or bowl
Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing a Dripping Tap
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
Before starting any repair, turn off the water supply to avoid further leakage. Locate the isolation valve under the sink and turn it clockwise to stop the flow. Open the tap fully to drain any remaining water.
Step 2: Plug the Sink
Small parts like screws and washers can easily fall into the drain. To prevent this, plug the sink with a stopper or a cloth.
Step 3: Dismantle the Tap
The process of dismantling depends on the type of tap. Hereโs how to disassemble a traditional compression tap:
- Remove the decorative cap on the tap handle to expose the screw beneath.
- Use a screwdriver to unscrew the handle.
- Gently pull off the handle to reveal the valve stem.
- Use an adjustable wrench to unscrew the valve stem from the tap body.
For mixer taps, youโll typically need to remove the spout and cartridge. Consult the tapโs manual if youโre unsure.
Step 4: Inspect and Replace Worn Parts
Examine the internal components for signs of wear or damage:
- Washer: Check the rubber washer at the bottom of the valve stem. If itโs cracked or worn, replace it with a new one of the same size.
- O-Ring: Inspect the O-ring around the valve stem. If itโs damaged, replace it.
- Valve Seat: Look for corrosion or grooves on the valve seat. If itโs damaged, you may need to regrind it using a valve seat grinder or install a replacement.
- Cartridge: For mixer taps, inspect the cartridge. If itโs faulty, replace it with a compatible model.
Step 5: Reassemble the Tap
After replacing the worn components, reassemble the tap in the reverse order:
- Screw the valve stem back into the tap body.
- Replace the handle and secure it with the screw.
- Reattach the decorative cap.
For mixer taps, insert the new cartridge, reassemble the spout, and secure it in place.
Step 6: Turn the Water Supply Back On
Once the tap is reassembled, slowly turn the water supply back on. Open the tap to check for any leaks. If the tap no longer drips, your repair is successful!
Tips for a Smooth Repair
- Use Plumberโs Tape: Wrap plumberโs tape around the valve threads to ensure a watertight seal.
- Match Replacement Parts: Bring the old washer, O-ring, or cartridge to the hardware store to ensure you buy the correct size and type.
- Be Gentle: Avoid using excessive force when dismantling or reassembling the tap to prevent further damage.
When to Call a Professional
While most dripping taps can be fixed with basic tools, some issues may require professional help. Consider calling a plumber if:
- The tap continues to drip after replacing the components.
- The valve seat is severely corroded.
- The repair involves complex mixer or ball valve taps that youโre uncomfortable handling.
Preventing Future Drips
Prevention is better than repair. Follow these tips to extend the life of your taps:
- Turn Off Taps Gently: Avoid over-tightening taps, as this can wear out the washer.
- Regular Maintenance: Periodically check taps for leaks or signs of wear.
- Use Quality Components: Invest in high-quality washers, O-rings, and cartridges for durability.
Benefits of Fixing a Dripping Tap
Fixing a dripping tap not only saves water but also offers several advantages:
- Cost Savings: A single dripping tap can waste up to 15 liters of water a day, leading to higher bills.
- Environmental Impact: Conserving water helps reduce the strain on natural resources.
- Improved Functionality: A well-maintained tap is easier to use and lasts longer.
Final Thoughts
A dripping tap is a common household issue thatโs easy to fix with the right tools and approach. By following this guide, you can save money, conserve water, and restore your tapโs functionality. Whether itโs a worn washer, a faulty O-ring, or a damaged cartridge, addressing the problem early can prevent bigger plumbing issues down the line.
So, grab your tools and get to workโyour tap (and wallet) will thank you!
