If you've ever been kept awake at night by the constant drip-drip from your bathroom or kitchen tap, you'll understand how frustrating this common plumbing issue can be. Not only is a dripping tap annoying, but it can also be wasteful, contributing to higher water bills and unnecessary water wastage. In this detailed exploration, we'll delve into what causes your taps to drip, how to diagnose and fix the issue yourself, and when it might be time to call in a professional.
What Causes Taps to Drip?
The incessant dripping of a tap usually stems from wear and tear of its internal mechanisms. Here are some typical causes:
- Worn-out Washer: This is the most common culprit. A washer presses against a valve seat, and over time, it can become worn or stiff, which means it no longer seals properly.
- Damaged Valve Seat: The seat can also wear out or accumulate mineral deposits, causing the washer not to fit snugly.
- O Ring Issues: The O ring, another critical component, can become loose or wear out over time, leading to a leak near the handle.
- Corroded Valve Parts: Parts of the valve exposed to water can corrode, causing leaks.
- High Water Pressure: Occasionally, high water pressure might cause a tap to leak or drip intermittently.
Identifying the Source of the Drip
To fix a dripping tap, first identify which part of the tap is faulty. Here’s how you can track down the problem:
- Check the Handle: If the leak is coming from around the handle when the tap is turned on, it might be an O ring issue.
- Listen and Look: When the tap drips, where is the water coming from? The spout or the handle? This can help you identify if it's a washer or O-ring issue.
DIY Fixes You Can Try
Here are some steps to handle a dripping tap on your own:
1. Turn Off the Water Supply: Always start by turning off the water supply to the tap.
2. Plug the Sink: Plug the drain to avoid losing any small parts.
3. Dismantle the Tap: Use an appropriate screwdriver or an Allen key to remove the tap’s handle. Take off the cover to reveal the valve.
4. Inspect the Washer and O Ring: Remove and inspect the washer and the O ring. If they are worn out or damaged, replace them.
5. Check the Valve Seat: Look at the valve seat. Clean any mineral deposits with a cloth or a mild abrasive. If it's damaged significantly, a seat grinder can be used to smooth it out.
When to Call a Professional
While many minor issues with dripping taps can be handled at home, there are situations where a professional should be called:
- Complex Tap Designs: Modern taps can be complex and without proper diagrams or tools, they can be challenging to repair without causing further damage.
- Persistent Problems: If you’ve tried to fix the tap and it still drips, there may be a deeper issue.
- High Water Pressure: If you suspect that high water pressure is the cause, a plumber can measure and, if necessary, adjust your home's water pressure.
Long-Term Prevention
Preventing future issues can save you time and reduce your water bills. Here are some preventative measures:
- Regular Maintenance: Regularly check and replace worn-out parts like washers and O rings before they start leaking.
- Water Softener: If you live in a hard water area, consider installing a water softener to protect your plumbing from limescale build-up.
- Proper Usage: Avoid overtightening taps as this can accelerate wear on the washer and the valve seat.
Conclusion
Though a dripping tap might seem like a minor issue, it could escalate into a more significant problem if not addressed promptly. By understanding the mechanics behind why taps drip, you can either fix the issue yourself or know when to call in a professional. Remember, regular maintenance is key to preventing future problems and ensuring the longevity of your plumbing fixtures. As a practical action, you might want to schedule a ‘plumbing health check’ every year to catch these issues before they become bothersome headaches.
