How to fix a dripping lever tap
There’s no need to ignore a pesky dripping lever tap any longer. Not only does a leaky tap waste water and money, it can also be a constant annoyance. Fixing a dripping lever tap may seem like a daunting task, but with a bit of knowledge and the right tools, you can tackle the problem yourself.
First, it’s important to understand what causes a lever tap to drip. The most common culprit is a worn-out washer. Over time, the constant turning of the tap handle can cause the washer to become damaged or hardened. This prevents a proper seal from forming and leads to a dripping tap. Luckily, replacing the washer is a relatively simple fix.
To fix a dripping lever tap, you’ll need a few basic tools: an adjustable spanner, a set of screwdrivers, a cloth, and a new washer. Start by turning off the water supply to the tap. This is usually done by turning off the main water valve for the house, or by shutting off the specific valve underneath the sink. Once the water is off, use the adjustable spanner to unscrew the tap handle and remove it. If necessary, use the screwdrivers to remove any decorative caps or screws that may be covering the handle.
Once you’ve removed the tap handle, you’ll see a metal stem underneath. Carefully unscrew the stem and remove it from the tap body. Take note of how the components are arranged so that you can easily put them back together. Using a cloth, clean the stem and the inside of the tap body to remove any dirt or debris. Then, remove the old washer from the bottom of the stem and replace it with a new one.
Reassemble the tap by following the reverse steps of disassembly. Make sure to screw the stem back into the tap body securely but not too tight. Tighten the tap handle and turn the water supply back on. Turn the tap on and off a few times to check for any leaks. If you notice any drips, double-check that the stem is tightened properly and that the tap handle is secure. With a little patience and some basic tools, you’ll have your dripping lever tap fixed in no time!
Remember, if at any point you feel unsure or uncomfortable completing this repair yourself, it’s always best to consult a professional plumber. They have the experience and expertise to handle any tricky plumbing situation and ensure the job is done correctly.
Simple guide to fix a dripping lever tap
If you have a dripping lever tap in your home, don’t worry. Fixing it is a simple task that you can do yourself with just a few tools. Follow this step-by-step guide to resolve the issue and save yourself from wasting water and money on high water bills.
What you’ll need:
- Adjustable wrench – to disconnect the tap
- Screwdriver – to remove the tap handles
- Gasket or O-ring – to replace the worn out seal
- Lubricant – to ensure smooth turning of the tap
Step 1: Turn off the water supply
Before you begin, make sure the water supply to the tap is turned off. You can usually find the shutoff valve beneath the sink or next to the tap itself.
Step 2: Disconnect the tap
Using an adjustable wrench, gently loosen and disconnect the tap from the water supply lines. Be careful not to damage any pipes in the process.
Step 3: Remove the tap handles
Using a screwdriver, carefully unscrew and remove the handles of the tap. Keep the screws and handles somewhere safe so that you don’t lose them.
Step 4: Replace the gasket or O-ring
Inspect the gasket or O-ring inside the tap. If it is worn out or damaged, replace it with a new one. Install the new gasket or O-ring in the correct position.
Step 5: Lubricate the tap
Apply a small amount of lubricant to ensure smooth movement of the tap. This will help prevent future wear and tear.
Step 6: Reassemble the tap
Reattach the tap handles, making sure they are securely fastened. Then, reconnect the tap to the water supply lines using an adjustable wrench.
Step 7: Turn on the water supply
Finally, turn on the water supply and check if the dripping has stopped. If the problem persists, you may need to seek professional help.
By following these simple steps, you can fix a dripping lever tap in no time. Remember to turn off the water supply before starting the process, and if you’re not confident in your DIY skills, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber for assistance.
Identify the problem
When faced with a dripping lever tap, it’s important to identify the root cause of the problem. A dripping tap is not only irritating but can also waste a significant amount of water over time. Here are some common issues that may be causing the drip:
- Worn out washer: The washer is a rubber seal that helps to create a watertight seal when you turn off the tap. Over time, the washer can become worn or damaged, resulting in a small leak.
- Loose valve: Under the lever handle, there is a valve that controls the flow of water. If the valve becomes loose or worn, it can cause the tap to drip.
- Corroded or damaged parts: The tap may have corroded or damaged components that are preventing it from closing fully. This can result in water slowly trickling out.
- High water pressure: Excessively high water pressure can cause the tap to drip, as the water may be pushing past the seals and valves.
- Improper installation: If the tap was not installed properly, it may not be able to form a tight seal, leading to a dripping tap.
By understanding the potential causes, you can take appropriate action to fix the dripping lever tap and prevent any further water waste. It’s always a good idea to seek professional help if you’re unsure about how to proceed.
Gather necessary tools
To fix a dripping lever tap, you will need a few essential tools. Make sure to gather the following items before starting the repair process:
1. Adjustable wrench:
An adjustable wrench will come in handy for loosening or tightening the fittings of the tap. It allows you to easily adjust the jaws to fit different sizes of nuts and bolts.
2. Screwdriver:
A screwdriver is essential for removing the handle or any other parts that are held in place by screws. Make sure to use the appropriate type and size of screwdriver based on the type and size of screws used in your tap.
These two tools are generally the most common and essential ones needed for fixing a dripping lever tap. However, depending on the specific design and brand of your tap, you may also need additional tools such as a hex key, pliers, or a spanner. It’s always a good idea to consult the manufacturer’s instructions or seek professional advice if you are unsure.
Shut off water supply
Before beginning any repair on a dripping lever tap, it is important to shut off the water supply to avoid any potential flooding or water damage. Follow these steps to shut off the water supply:
- Locate the shut-off valve underneath the sink, usually found on the wall or on the incoming water pipe.
- Turn the valve clockwise to shut off the water flow.
- Once the valve is fully closed, turn on the lever tap to release any remaining water pressure.
- Make sure the water flow has completely stopped before proceeding with the repair.
Shutting off the water supply is an important step to ensure a safe and effective repair on a dripping lever tap. Taking the time to properly shut off the water will prevent any unnecessary mess or complications during the repair process.
Disassemble the tap
To fix a dripping lever tap, you will need to disassemble the tap. Start by turning off the water supply to the tap. Look for a shut-off valve beneath the sink or near the main water supply valve. Turn it clockwise to shut off the water.
Next, cover the sink with a towel or cloth to prevent any small parts from falling down the drain. This will also protect the surface of the sink from any scratches or damage.
Take a screwdriver and locate the screw or screws on the lever handle. Depending on your tap, the screws may be at the top or bottom of the handle. Unscrew the screws counterclockwise using a screwdriver, taking care not to strip the screw heads.
Once the screws are removed, gently pry off the lever handle. If it doesn’t come off easily, wiggle it back and forth while pulling to loosen it. Set the lever handle aside.
Underneath the lever handle, you will find the cartridge. This is the part responsible for controlling the flow of water. Grab the cartridge with pliers or use an adjustable wrench and twist counterclockwise to remove it. Take note of how the cartridge is positioned before removing it.
Inspect the cartridge for any signs of damage or wear. Check the rubber gaskets and O-rings for cracks or tears. If any parts look worn out or damaged, it may be necessary to replace them. Take the old cartridge to a hardware store to help you find an exact match.
Clean the inside of the tap body and remove any debris or mineral buildup using a toothbrush or a small brush. This will ensure that the new cartridge fits properly and there is no interference with the water flow.
With the old cartridge removed and the tap body cleaned, you can now install the new cartridge. Insert the new cartridge into the tap body and twist it clockwise to secure it. Make sure it fits snugly without any wobbling.
Reassemble the tap by putting the lever handle back in place and fastening the screws. Tighten the screws clockwise, but be careful not to overtighten as this can cause damage.
Finally, turn the water supply back on and test the tap to see if it still drips. If the drip persists, it may be a sign of a larger issue, and you may want to consider contacting a professional plumber.
Replace worn-out components
If your lever tap is dripping, it may be due to worn-out components. Over time, the internal parts of the tap can become corroded or damaged, causing water to leak out. Here are the steps to replace these worn-out components:
1. Turn off the water supply
Before starting any repairs, it is crucial to turn off the water supply to the tap. This can usually be achieved by closing the isolation valves located beneath the sink or by shutting off the main water valve for the entire house.
2. Disassemble the tap
Next, you will need to disassemble the lever tap. Depending on the model, this may involve removing the handle, the lever, the spout, or other parts. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions or consult a plumbing professional for guidance specific to your tap.
3. Inspect and replace worn components
Once you have disassembled the tap, carefully inspect each component for signs of wear or damage. Common components that may need to be replaced include the valve washer, O-rings, seals, or the cartridge. These can usually be purchased at hardware stores or plumbing supply centers.
| Component | Replacement Procedure |
|---|---|
| Valve Washer | Use pliers to remove the old washer and replace it with a new one of the same size. |
| O-rings/Seals | Gently pry off the old O-ring or seal and replace it with a new one. Apply some lubricating grease to ensure a watertight seal. |
| Cartridge | Depending on the tap model, the cartridge may need to be replaced entirely. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for this procedure or seek professional help. |
4. Reassemble the tap
After replacing the worn components, carefully reassemble the tap in the reverse order that you disassembled it. Make sure all connections are secure and tightened.
Once the tap is reassembled, turn on the water supply and test for any leaks. If everything is in order, your dripping lever tap should now be fixed and no longer wasting water.
Reassemble and test
After you have repaired or replaced the necessary components, it is time to reassemble the lever tap and test it for functionality. Follow these steps:
1. Reassemble
Refer to the notes you made during disassembly and carefully reassemble the lever tap. Make sure all the parts are aligned correctly and tightened securely. Use any necessary tools, such as a wrench or screwdriver, to ensure the tap is properly assembled.
2. Test for leaks
Before turning on the water supply, ensure that all the connections are tight and secure. Slowly turn on the water supply and check for any leaks. Pay attention to the base of the tap, handles, and any connection points.
If you notice any leaks, tighten the relevant parts further or replace any worn-out washers or O-rings. Continue testing until you are confident that the tap is leak-free.
3. Test functionality
Once you are satisfied that the tap is not leaking, test its functionality. Turn on both the hot and cold water supplies and check that the lever can be smoothly and easily moved to control the water flow. The tap should turn on and off without any sticking or stiff movements.
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Tap is still leaking | Make sure all connections are tight or replace any faulty parts |
| Lever is stiff or difficult to move | Check for any obstructions or misalignment during reassembly |
| Water flow is weak | Inspect and clean the aerator or check for any blockages in the water pipe |
| No water flow at all | Check the water supply and ensure all connections are open |
If you encounter any further issues or if the dripping persists, it may be necessary to seek professional assistance or consider replacing the entire lever tap.
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