Beyond Bending Tell You How
Many of us have experienced the annoying sound of a kitchen tap dripping, which not only disturbs our peace but also wastes water and increases our water bill. In this article, we will explore the causes of kitchen tap dripping, the solutions to fix it, and some prevention tips that can help you avoid this problem in the future.
Causes of Kitchen Tap Dripping
There are several reasons why your kitchen tap might be dripping. Some of the most common causes include:
Worn Out Washers
The washers inside the tap handle can wear out over time, causing dripping. If the washer is the cause of the problem, you will need to replace it with a new one.
Loose or Worn Out O-Rings
The O-rings are small rubber rings that are located around the spout and the tap handle. If these rings become loose or worn out, they can cause dripping. To fix this problem, you will need to replace the O-rings.
Corroded Valve Seat
The valve seat is the part of the tap that connects the spout to the base. If the valve seat becomes corroded, it can cause dripping. To fix this problem, you will need to replace the valve seat.
Solutions to Fix Kitchen Tap Dripping
Once you have identified the cause of the dripping, you can take the following steps to fix it:
Replace the Washers
If the washers are the cause of the dripping, you can replace them with a new one. First, turn off the water supply to the tap. Then, remove the tap handle and unscrew the valve stem. Remove the old washer and replace it with a new one. Reassemble the tap and turn on the water supply to check if the dripping has stopped.
Replace the O-Rings
If the O-rings are the cause of the dripping, you can replace them with a new one. First, turn off the water supply to the tap. Then, remove the tap handle and the spout. Replace the old O-rings with new ones and reassemble the tap. Turn on the water supply to check if the dripping has stopped.
Replace the Valve Seat
If the valve seat is corroded, you can replace it with a new one. First, turn off the water supply to the tap. Then, remove the tap handle and the spout. Use a valve seat wrench to remove the old valve seat and replace it with a new one. Reassemble the tap and turn on the water supply to check if the dripping has stopped.
Prevention Tips
Here are some prevention tips that can help you avoid kitchen tap dripping:
Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance can help prevent kitchen tap dripping. Inspect your taps regularly for any signs of wear and tear, and replace any worn out parts immediately.
Don’t Over-tighten the Tap Handle
Over-tightening the tap handle can cause the washers and O-rings to wear out quickly. Use only the necessary force to tighten the tap handle.
Use a Water Softener
Hard water can cause mineral buildup inside the tap, which can lead to dripping. Install a water softener to prevent mineral buildup.
Call a Professional
If you are not comfortable fixing the dripping tap yourself, call a professional plumber. They have the expertise and tools to fix the problem quickly and efficiently.
