Mixer Tap Dripping: Causes, Prevention, and Repair

Have you ever been annoyed by the constant dripping sound of your mixer tap? Not only is it an inconvenience, but it can also lead to water wastage and increased bills. In this article, we will explore the causes of mixer tap dripping, prevention measures, and easy repair solutions.

What causes mixer tap dripping?

The most common cause of mixer tap dripping is a worn-out washer. A washer is a small rubber disc that sits inside the tap and helps to prevent water from leaking. Overtime, constant usage can cause the washer to wear out, resulting in a leaky tap.

Another cause of mixer tap dripping is a damaged O-ring. O-rings are rubber rings that are situated around the tap’s spindle. They help to create a watertight seal when the tap is turned on or off. If the O-ring is damaged or worn out, it can cause water to leak around the tap’s base.

Lastly, a faulty valve seat can also cause mixer tap dripping. The valve seat is a small metal part that connects the tap’s spout to the base. If the valve seat is worn out or damaged, it can cause water to leak around the tap’s base.

Prevention measures

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are a few measures you can take to prevent mixer tap dripping:

• Don’t overtighten the tap when turning it off. This can cause damage to the washer or O-ring.
• Regularly clean your tap to remove any mineral buildup that can cause damage to the washer or O-ring.
• Get a professional plumber to install your tap to ensure it is done correctly and prevent any damage to the valve seat.

Easy repair solutions

If you notice that your mixer tap is dripping, it’s best to take care of it as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Here are some easy repair solutions:

• Replace the washer: Turn off the water supply to the tap and remove the tap head. Remove the worn-out washer and replace it with a new one. Reassemble the tap and turn the water supply back on.
• Replace the O-ring: Turn off the water supply and remove the tap head. Carefully remove the damaged O-ring and replace it with a new one. Reassemble the tap and turn the water supply back on.
• Replace the valve seat: This is a more advanced repair job and may require the services of a professional plumber. The plumber will remove the tap and replace the worn-out valve seat.

Conclusion

Mixer tap dripping can be an annoying problem, but with the right knowledge, prevention measures, and easy repair solutions, it can be easily taken care of. Remember to always take care of your taps to prevent any unwanted problems in the future.