Beyond Bending Tell You How
There’s nothing more frustrating than a dripping tap in your kitchen. Not only is it annoying, but it can also lead to a lot of wasted water and a higher water bill. Luckily, fixing a dripping tap is a relatively simple task that you can do yourself with just a few basic tools. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to fix a dripping tap in your kitchen.
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
Before you start fixing your dripping tap, you need to turn off the water supply to your kitchen sink. Look for the shut-off valve under your sink and turn it clockwise until it’s fully closed. This will prevent any water from flowing while you work on the tap.
Step 2: Remove the Tap Handle
The next step is to remove the tap handle. You can do this by searching for a screw on the handle or under a cap on top of the handle. Unscrew it and gently pull the handle off. If the handle is stuck, you can use a flathead screwdriver to pry it off.
Step 3: Remove the Tap Cartridge
Once you’ve removed the handle, you’ll see the tap cartridge. This is the part that controls the flow of water. Use a wrench to loosen the nut that’s holding the cartridge in place. Once the nut is loose, you can remove the cartridge by pulling it out.
Step 4: Inspect the Cartridge
Inspect the cartridge for any damage or wear and tear. If you notice any cracks or breaks, you’ll need to replace the cartridge. If the cartridge looks okay, you can try cleaning it to see if that fixes the problem. Use a rag or a toothbrush to clean any debris or mineral buildup that may be causing the drip.
Step 5: Replace the Cartridge
If you’ve determined that the cartridge needs to be replaced, you’ll need to find a replacement that matches your current cartridge. Take the old cartridge with you to the hardware store to ensure you get the right size and type. Once you have your replacement cartridge, insert it into the tap and tighten the nut to hold it in place.
Step 6: Reassemble the Tap
Now that you’ve replaced or cleaned the cartridge, it’s time to reassemble the tap. Slide the tap handle back onto the cartridge and tighten the screw or replace the cap. Turn the water supply back on and turn the tap on to test if the dripping has stopped.
Step 7: Check for Leaks
If the dripping has stopped, congratulations! You’ve successfully fixed your dripping tap. However, it’s important to check for any leaks before you call it a day. Turn the tap on and off a few times and check for any leaks around the handle or the base of the tap. If you notice any leaks, tighten the nuts or joints until the leaks stop.
Step 8: Prevent Future Dripping
Preventing future dripping is important to save water and money. Here are a few tips to keep your kitchen tap from dripping:
- Don’t overtighten the tap handle when turning it off, as this can cause damage to the cartridge.
- Regularly clean your tap cartridge to prevent mineral buildup.
- Replace your tap cartridge every few years to prevent wear and tear.
- If you notice any leaks, fix them right away to prevent further damage to your tap.
Conclusion
Fixing a dripping tap in your kitchen is a simple task that you can do yourself with just a few basic tools. By following these steps, you can save water, money, and the frustration of a constantly dripping tap. Remember to turn off the water supply, remove the tap handle and cartridge, inspect and clean or replace the cartridge, reassemble the tap, check for leaks, and prevent future dripping. With these tips, you’ll have a perfectly functioning kitchen tap in no time!
