Beyond Bending Tell You How
Leaking sink mixer taps can be a frustrating and costly problem if left unattended. Not only do they waste water, but they can also damage your sink and surrounding areas. Fortunately, fixing a leaking sink mixer tap is not as difficult as it may seem. With the right tools and some basic knowledge, you can fix the problem yourself without having to call a plumber.
Gather Your Tools and Supplies
Before you start fixing your leaking sink mixer tap, you will need to gather the necessary tools and supplies. These include:
- Adjustable wrench or spanner
- Flathead screwdriver
- Replacement O-rings or washers
- Plumber’s tape
- Cloth or towel
Turn Off the Water Supply
The first step in fixing a leaking sink mixer tap is to turn off the water supply. This can be done by locating the shut-off valves under the sink and turning them clockwise until they are fully closed. If you cannot find the shut-off valves, you may need to turn off the main water supply to your home.
Remove the Tap Handle
Once the water supply is turned off, you can begin to remove the tap handle. This is usually done by loosening the screw that holds the handle in place with a flathead screwdriver. Once the screw is loose, you can gently pull the handle off the tap.
Remove the Cartridge or Valve
With the handle removed, you should be able to see the cartridge or valve that controls the flow of water. This can be removed by using an adjustable wrench or spanner to unscrew it from the tap body. Some taps may have a retaining clip that needs to be removed before the cartridge or valve can be taken out.
Inspect the O-Rings or Washers
Once the cartridge or valve is removed, you should inspect the O-rings or washers that are located on the cartridge or valve and inside the tap body. These are often the cause of a leaking sink mixer tap and may need to be replaced.
Replace the O-Rings or Washers
If the O-rings or washers are damaged or worn, you will need to replace them. This can be done by simply removing the old ones and replacing them with new ones. Make sure to use the correct size and type of O-rings or washers for your tap.
Reassemble the Tap
Once the O-rings or washers have been replaced, you can reassemble the tap. This involves placing the cartridge or valve back into the tap body and tightening it with an adjustable wrench or spanner. You can then replace the tap handle and tighten the screw that holds it in place.
Turn On the Water Supply
With the tap reassembled, you can turn on the water supply and check for any leaks. If you notice any leaks, you may need to tighten the cartridge or valve further or replace any damaged parts.
Use Plumber’s Tape
If your tap continues to leak after replacing the O-rings or washers, you may need to use plumber’s tape. This is a thin, white tape that can be wrapped around the threads of the cartridge or valve before it is screwed back into the tap body. This can help create a tight seal and prevent leaks.
Call a Professional
If you are unable to fix your leaking sink mixer tap or if you are not comfortable working with plumbing, it is best to call a professional plumber. They will have the necessary tools and expertise to fix the problem quickly and efficiently.
Conclusion
Fixing a leaking sink mixer tap is not as difficult as it may seem. With the right tools and some basic knowledge, you can fix the problem yourself and save money on plumbing costs. Remember to turn off the water supply, remove the tap handle, inspect the O-rings or washers, replace any damaged parts, and reassemble the tap. If you are unsure or uncomfortable with the process, it is best to call a professional plumber.
