22 Feb 2024
Leaking taps are a common occurrence that you may come across in your home from time to time. Due to regular usage, taps can develop leaks, making it essential to address the issue promptly. Failing to do so can lead to increased water bills and repair costs for homeowners.
Contrary to popular belief, water tap leaking is not a complex task to fix. With the right methods or information, you can easily resolve a water tap leakage. This blog outlines the correct procedures for fixing a water tap leakage!
What Causes a Water Tap Leakage?
Below, we are mentioning the main reasons for water tap leakage:
- The tap washer is damaged or worn out.
- There is damage or corrosion on the valve seating.
- There is wear on the jumper valve.
- The O-ring is worn out or has fallen free.
- The tap’s washer is the incorrect size.
- Previously, the washer was put improperly.
How Can You Fix a Water Tap Leakage?
Prior to repairing your tap, you’ll need some essential tools and supplies. Here, we outline the crucial supplies and tools necessary for fixing a water tap leakage.
These supplies can help you fix a water tap leakage:
- Correct sized washers
- Jumper valves
- O-ring
- A shifting wrench (a shifter) or a set of spanners
- Some pliers
- A screwdriver
- Gaffer tape
- Tweezers
- Resealing kit or silicone (if necessary)
- A cloth
Water Tap Leakage Repair Steps
Step 1: Plug the Washbasin
Insert a plug into the basin or washbasin to ensure that no components are lost down the drain during the repair.
Step 2: Take the Tap Button Off
Take off the tap button, usually labelled “hot” or “cold,” from the top of the tap. A screwdriver may be required to complete this step.
Step 3: Remove the Handle
Depending on your tap model, you might need to detach the handle to gain visibility inside. Typically, this involves unscrewing the handle using a spanner or an adjustable wrench.
Step 4: Take Off the Tap Skirt
If your tap has a skirt or shroud, often made of metal, unscrew it using a wrench or a pair of pliers. This step may be challenging due to sealants.
Step 5: Remove the Tap Bonnet
To reach the washer and jumper valve, remove the tap’s body by unscrewing it with a spanner. Ensure not to misplace it, as you’ll need it for reassembly.
Step 6: Remove the Jumper Valve and Washer
After removing the bonnet, locate the washer and jumper valve. Sometimes, the jumper valve may come off with the tap body, but this is not an issue if you know its location. If necessary, use tweezers or needle-nose pliers to extract the washer and jumper valve.
Step 7: Locate the Right Replacement Washer
Take the washer and jumper valves to your local hardware store to purchase replacement parts. Typically, tap washers in residential homes are 12 mm, but in some cases, they may be 15 mm or larger. Consider getting silicone for skirt sealing to prevent future mould growth.
Step 8: Change the Washer
Reinstall the jumper valve and washer within the tap.
Step 10: Assemble Your Tap
Reinstall the tap bonnet and tighten it with a spanner or tool after the washer and jumper valve is in place. However, until you are certain that the tap is fixed, avoid applying silicone to the skirt’s bottom.
Step 11: Activate the Main Switch
It’s time to fully shut off the water supply and reactivate the main water supply but be careful not to shut it off too firmly.
Conclusion
These steps provide a proper guide for fixing water tap leakage. Acquiring the skills to repair a leaking tap is a valuable ability that can lead to both cost and water savings. With the right tools and a systematic approach, this common plumbing issue is manageable for everyone. Homeowners can effectively address leaking taps and mitigate water waste by familiarizing themselves with the disassembly and repair procedures.
If you are still unable to fix the water tap leakage, you should engage with professionals. K. Heng Plumbing is the leading plumbing company that offers you the best help. We are equipped with advanced tools and solutions that fix the water tap leakage quickly. Connect with our K. Heng Plumbing to learn more about the service!