Have you recently upgraded your kitchen or bathroom taps, only to find an annoying drip that won’t go away? It's a common issue many face after a new tap installation, and while minor, it can be a significant annoyance, not to mention the wasted water and increased utility bills. Let’s dive into why this might be happening and what you can do to solve the problem.
Understanding Why Taps Drip After Installation
Dripping taps are one of the more frequent challenges homeowners encounter following installation. Several factors can contribute to this irritating issue, from improper fitting to defective parts. Understanding the root cause is the first step to solving the problem.
Was the Tap Installed Correctly?
One common reason for a dripping tap is incorrect installation. This might mean that the connections are not tight enough, or the washers inside the tap have been incorrectly fitted or are the wrong size. If you installed the tap yourself, revisiting your installation steps might help identify any mistakes. However, if the installation was done by a professional, it might be worth reaching out to them to rectify the issue.
Check the Washer and O-Ring
At the heart of most taps are the washers and O-rings – small but critical components that ensure a water-tight seal. Over-tightening or using an incorrect washer size can lead to drips. To check this, you’ll need to turn off the water supply, dismantle the tap, and inspect these parts. Look for any signs of damage, incorrect sizing, or general wear.
Could It Be High Water Pressure?
Sometimes, the problem isn't with the tap but rather with the water supply itself. High water pressure can force water through even the smallest unsealed spaces. If you notice the dripping is more severe at certain times of the day, such as during low usage times at night, high water pressure could be the culprit. This might require adjusting the pressure in your water system or installing a pressure reducer.
Is There a Faulty Cartridge?
For mixer taps, issues might arise from a faulty cartridge. These are a bit more complex than just a washer but are equally critical. Cartridges regulate the mix and flow of hot and cold water. Signs of a faulty cartridge include uneven water flow, leaking from the tap’s handle, or dripping. Replacing the cartridge is straightforward but requires specific tools and a bit of know-how.
Handling Mineral Build-up
In areas with hard water, mineral build-up can affect the functioning of your taps. If minerals accumulate within the tap, they can prevent proper sealing and lead to dripping. Regular cleaning and occasionally descaling the tap can prevent this issue.
When to Call a Professional
While many of the fixes mentioned can be handled as a DIY project, there are times when calling in a professional plumber is advisable. If you’ve checked off all possible DIY fixes without success, or if the installation of a new part like a cartridge seems daunting, professional help can save you time and further complications.
Long-term Prevention Tips
Maintaining your taps isn’t just about fixing problems as they arise but preventing them where possible:
1. Regularly clean and descale your taps, especially if you live in a hard water area.
2. When installing a new tap, ensure all fittings and connections are secure but not overtightened.
3. Periodically check the condition of internal components like washers and O-rings, replacing them before they fail.
4. Consider installing a water softener in your home to combat the effects of hard water on your plumbing fixtures.
Conclusion
A dripping tap is not just a nuisance; it represents wasted resources and potential long-term damage to your plumbing system. By understanding the common causes and exploring both DIY fixes and knowing when to call in the professionals, you can ensure your taps function efficiently and last longer. Next time you face a tap-related issue, revisit these tips and take action early to mitigate the problem.
