Let us help you with your leaking tap issue. Find out what are the most common leaking tap causes and how to fix them. Follow our easy and straightforward step-wise guide to fix a leaking tap.
A leaking tap is a common household issue that can cause a lot of inconvenience and wasted water. The most common cause of a leaking tap is a worn-out washer or O-ring. Over time, these small components can become damaged and lose their ability to create a watertight seal. Another possible cause of a leaking tap is a loose or damaged valve seat. If the valve seat becomes worn or damaged, it can allow water to leak out around the base of the tap. In some cases, a leaking tap may also be caused by a broken or damaged pipe, which can cause water to leak out from behind the tap.
Fixing a leaking tap is a straightforward process that can be done by anyone with a few basic tools and some DIY knowledge. The first step in fixing a leaking tap is to turn off the water supply to the tap. This can usually be done by turning off the isolation valve located under the sink or basin. Once the water supply is turned off, the next step is to remove the tap handle and the cover plate to access the tap mechanism. Using a spanner or pliers, the tap mechanism can then be disassembled to reveal the cause of the leak.
If the cause of the leak is a worn-out washer or O-ring, these components can be easily replaced with new ones. Washers and O-rings are widely available at hardware stores and can be purchased for a very low cost. Simply remove the old washer or O-ring and replace it with the new one, being careful to ensure that it is seated correctly in the tap mechanism. If the cause of the leak is a loose or damaged valve seat, this can be repaired by using a valve seat grinder or by replacing the entire valve assembly.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Remember in cases of emergency – Contact Hydro Plumbing Services or call 1300 493 082.
How to fix a leaking tap
Step 1: Get replacement parts such as new washers in the standard size. If you have a modern tap, that will not require a washer but a replaced/new seal.
Step 2: Once you have got your replacement parts ready, turn off the water supply of the tap. You can do this by finding an isolated valve on the pipe which is below the tap that you are working on. Turn this with a screwdriver. If you do not find one, find a stopcock and turn off the water supply from there instead. Before moving ahead, turn on the tap once to make sure that there is no water coming out anymore.
Step 3: This is where you start dismantling the tap. Remove the handle and tap cover, and unscrew its headgear nut. This way, you remove the body of the tap. Cover the nut with a cloth to protect it from any damage during the fixing process. Also, secure the spout to prevent the whole tap from turning around. Do this with someone’s help who can hold the spout firmly. Use oil to loosen the nut if needed.
Step 4: Once you remove the tap’s body, remove the old washer. You have to remove the washer from the pin, which is at the bottom. Pull it off with pliers or if you see any nuts or screws attached, remove them accordingly. After doing this, you will be able to see the problem with the washer. If the washer seems okay, you might have to dig deeper to look at the valve seat which is inside the fitting. However, for this, it is best to call a plumber.
Step 5: If the problem was with the washer, remove the old one and fit the new one. Apply some oil or petroleum jelly if you find it tough to fit it over the pin. Push it down with the help of some pliers.
Step 6: Finally, the last step is to replace the tap’s headgear. This will hold the tap tightly and securely while you tighten the nut. Once this is done, check everything to be securely fixed. Then, move ahead with turning the water supply back on and check if the tap’s running well again. If not, call a plumber nearby. If you happen to contact us, you can rest assured that we will send over highly skilled and professional people to handle your problem and solve it in the least possible time.
Whether it’s an Emergency Plumbing Fix or a simple repair, we are able to provide low price repairs and complete the job quickly saving you time and money. Contact Hydro Plumbing Services or call 1300 493 082.
As published on Google Reviews
” Charlie was a perfect plumber. He “came to my rescue” in the early hours of the morning to fix the toilet and at the same time check everything else out just in case. He wasnt rude and was a good worker. I recommend him 100%%%. Super happy…. cause i can finally use the toilet ahaha‘
