A persistent drip from your tap not only racks up on your water bill over time but can also become a persistent source of annoyance. This quiet disruption in the tranquillity of your home is a common issue many face, but before you ignore it or get used to the sound of water hitting the sink, let’s dive into what really causes your tap to drip, how you can fix it, and what measures can prevent it from recurring.
Underlying Causes of a Dripping Tap
Dripping taps can stem from a few common issues in the tap’s mechanism:
- Worn Out Washer: The washer against the valve seat can become worn out over time due to the frequent friction caused by turning the tap on and off. This is the most common cause in traditional taps.
- Damaged Cartridge: Mixer taps operate with a cartridge that controls water flow and temperature. If it's damaged or old, it might not properly seal the water flow.
- Faulty Valve Seat: A corroded valve seat, the connection point between the tap and spout, can also lead to leakage.
- Improper Installation: Sometimes dripping is caused simply by parts not being fitted together tightly during installation.
Identifying the Problem
To effectively stop your tap from dripping, you first need to figure out what type of tap you have – is it a traditional washer, a mixer with cartridges, or perhaps a ceramic-disc tap? Once identified, this will dictate your approach to fixing the issue.
Step-by-Step Repair Guidance
Regardless of your mechanical expertise, here are a few remedial steps that can be taken for each type of tap:
1. Turn Off the Water Supply: Before you begin any repair, make sure the water supply is turned off to avoid a miniature indoor flood.
2. Disassemble the Tap: This usually involves removing the tap handle, which is often secured by a small screw, hidden under a decorative cap.
3. Inspect the Inside: Once the handle is off, look inside. For worn-out washers or damaged cartridges, removing and replacing these parts can resolve the drip.
4. Reassemble and Test: After the new part is installed, reassemble the tap and turn the water back on to test if the dripping has stopped.
Cartridge Taps Specifics: For mixer taps, replacing a cartridge might require noting the manufacturer and cartridge size. Make sure to get an exact replacement.
When to Call a Professional
While many tap issues can be remedied with a DIY approach, certain conditions call for professional help:
- When you can’t identify the type of tap or the cause of the drip.
- If the tap continues to leak after you’ve replaced the washer or the cartridge.
- In cases of severe corrosion or when the tap is damaged beyond a simple part replacement.
Preventing Future Drips
Regular maintenance can keep tap issues at bay. Here are a few tips:
- Regularly clean your taps to prevent a build-up of limescale and debris.
- Tighten fittings annually to combat wear and tear.
- Replace parts like washers and cartridges before they wear out completely, as part of routine maintenance.
Conclusion
There’s a certain satisfaction in fixing home issues by yourself, and a dripping tap often proves to be a manageable challenge. Our guide outlines the typical problems and solutions to help you resolve this dripping issue. However, if the problem persists or your taps are old and worn, it might be time to ask for professional help. Consider this an investment not only in peace and quiet but in the long-term preservation of your home's plumbing integrity. Remember, keeping on top of smaller problems like a dripping tap can prevent bigger, more expensive issues down the line.
