When a tap in your kitchen or bathroom starts dripping, it might seem like a minor annoyance. However, those drips add up, not just in water wastage but also in potential damage and increased water bills. Understanding what causes a tap to leak and how to fix it can save both water and money, and it might be simpler than you think.
What Causes Your Tap to Drip?
Several issues can cause a tap to leak, most commonly worn out washers, O-rings, or corroded valve seats. Taps endure a lot of use; turning them off and on multiple times a day can cause these components to wear out. Water quality can also affect these parts, as minerals in the water can build up and corrode metal or degrade rubber parts.
Diagnosing a Leaking Tap
Start by identifying the type of tap – is it a traditional washer tap or a ceramic disc tap? Washer taps are common and usually involve a rubber washer that can degrade over time. On the other hand, ceramic disc taps have two ceramic plates that slide over each other. These are less prone to leaking but are not immune.
Turn Off the Water Supply
Before anything else, ensure you turn off the water supply to the tap. This is usually done via the isolation valve located under the sink. Turning this will stop the flow of water, allowing you to work on the tap without turning off the main water supply to your home.
Disassemble the Tap
You'll need a few basic tools like an adjustable spanner and a screwdriver. Carefully remove the tap’s handle; this may require loosening a screw hidden under a decorative cap. With the handle off, you can access the body of the tap where the washer or ceramic discs are located.
Check the Washer or Ceramic Discs
For washer taps, remove the washer and inspect it. If it looks worn or cracked, it’s time for a replacement. Local hardware stores carry these, and they’re inexpensive. For ceramic disc taps, check the discs for any signs of damage or wear. If they are damaged, replacements might be a bit more costly but are still typically easy to find.
Replace the Damaged Part
For a washer, make sure the replacement is the correct size and simply fit it back where the old one was. For ceramic discs, align the new discs correctly and ensure they're secure.
Reassemble the Tap
Once the new part is in place, reconstruct the tap in the reverse order you disassembled it. Make sure every part is tightened correctly but avoid over-tightening, which can damage the new parts and the tap itself.
Test Your Work
Turn the water supply back on and check the tap. Open and close it a few times and watch for leaks. If it still drips, disassemble again to check everything is in place and correctly fitted.
Long-Term Maintenance
Regular maintenance is the key to preventing future leaks. Every few months, turn the taps on and off, and listen for any unusual sounds. Once a year, take the time to disassemble the taps, check for wear on washers and discs, and replace them preemptively if they show signs of wear.
When to Call a Professional
While many tap leaks are manageable with DIY methods, there are times it's best to call in a professional. If the tap continues to leak after you've replaced the washer or discs, if there is significant corrosion, or if the fix involves replacing the entire tap, these situations might require the expertise of a trained plumber.
In Conclusion
Fixing a dripping tap is a valuable skill that can not only save water but also prevent damage and spare you unnecessary expense. With the right tools and a little patience, you can manage straightforward leaks at home. Remember, regular maintenance is easier and often more cost-effective than unexpected repairs. If you run into problems, or if the job seems too big, don’t hesitate to call a professional. The peace of mind might be worth the call-out fee alone.
By keeping your home’s plumbing in good working order, you ensure it works efficiently, saving you time and expense in the long run.
