If you have a dripping kitchen tap, it is annoying and can also waste a lot of water and increase your water bill. Fortunately, fixing a dripping kitchen tap is a relatively easy task you can do yourself with a few basic tools. In the following article, we will present you with a detailed guide on how to fix a dripping kitchen tap.
Tools You Will Need
Before you start fixing your dripping kitchen tap, make sure you have the following tools:
- Adjustable wrench
- Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips)
- Replacement washers and O-rings (if necessary)
- Pliers
Step 1: Turn off the Water Supply
Before working on your kitchen tap, turn off the water supply by shutting off the isolation valve under the sink. If you can’t find the isolation valve, shut off the primary water supply to your residence.
Step 2: Remove the Tap Handle
To fix a dripping kitchen tap, you must first remove the tap handle. The tap handle is usually held in place with screws, which can be located on the top or underside of the handle.
To remove the handle, you will need a screwdriver that fits the screws. If a cap covers the screws, you must first remove the cap with a flathead screwdriver.
Once you can access the screws, unscrew them and gently lift them off the handle. Be careful not to damage any parts underneath the handle as you remove it.
If you encounter resistance while removing the tap handle, use an adjustable wrench to loosen it. Remember not to overtighten or damage any of the parts while doing this.
Removing the tap handle will give you access to the cartridge, the next component you must inspect and replace.
Step 3: Remove the Cartridge
The cartridge is part of the tap that controls the flow of water. To remove the cartridge, you must use pliers to remove the retaining clip that holds it in place. Once the clip is removed, gently pull the cartridge out of the tap body. It’s important to be careful when removing the cartridge, as it can be easily damaged if mishandled. Once the cartridge is removed, you can inspect it for damage or wear. If the cartridge is in good condition, you can proceed to Step 4. If it is damaged or worn, you must replace it with a new one.
Step 4: Replace the Washer or O-ring
Replacing the washer or O-ring involves removing the old washer or O-ring from the tap and replacing it with a new one. The washer or O-ring is usually located at the base of the tap, under the cartridge. The washer or O-ring may become worn or damaged over time, causing the tap to leak. To replace the washer or O-ring, you will need to remove the cartridge, remove the old washer or O-ring, and replace it with a new one. Use the correct size and type of washer or O-ring for your tap. Once you have replaced the washer or O-ring, reassemble the tap and check for leaks. If the tap is still dripping, you may need to replace the entire cartridge.
Step 5: Reassemble the Tap
Reassembling the tap refers to putting all the tap parts back together after you have fixed or replaced any necessary parts. This involves reversing the steps you took to disassemble the tap in the first place. You must place the cartridge back into the tap body, secure it with the retaining clip, and then attach the tap handle and screws back onto the top or underside of the handle. It’s important to tighten all screws and connections securely but not to overtighten, which can damage the tap or cause leaks. After reassembling the tap, turning on the water supply back and checking for leaks is advisable.
Step 6: Turn on the Water Supply
Turning on the water supply means restoring the water flow to your kitchen tap after completing the repair work. This involves turning the isolation valve or main water supply valve back on to allow water to flow through the pipes and out of the tap. Turning on the water supply slowly is important to prevent any sudden pressure changes that could damage the tap or cause leaks. Once the water flows, check the tap for any leaks or drips and ensure all connections are tightened securely. If the tap is still dripping, you may need to repeat the repair process or consult a professional plumber.
Tips and Precautions
Tips and precautions are important when you do the task how to fix a dripping kitchen tap, to ensure the process is safe, efficient, and successful. Below are some important tips and precautions to remember:
- Before starting any plumbing work, ensure you have the right tools and skills. This will help you avoid unnecessary damage to your tap or plumbing system.
- Consult a professional plumber if you need clarification on any part of the process. They can provide guidance and ensure that the job is done correctly.
- It’s crucial to shut off the water supply to prevent potential water leaks or damage to your home before working on the tap. This will prevent water from leaking and potentially causing damage to your home.
- Keep all screws, washers, and other parts organized and in a safe place. This will help you avoid losing or misplacing parts during the repair process.
- Don’t overtighten any connections, which can damage the tap or cause leaks. Instead, securely tighten all screws and connections but avoid using too much force.
By following these tips and precautions, you can ensure that your repair job is done safely and effectively, helping you save money and avoid any potential plumbing problems.