FIXING A LEAKING TAP
Fixing a leaking tap may seem a simple job, but you can run into trouble if you don’t know what you’re doing. Check out our blog BEFORE YOU TRY TO FIX A LEAKING TAP to make sure you can determine the cause of the leak in your tap and ensure you’ve got all the tools and supplies you need. The last thing you want to do is make a simple problem into a much bigger one!
For best results, spend a little extra when purchasing a new jumper valve washer. It’s also a good idea to replace both the hot and the cold tap washers at the same time, seeing you already have the water turned off.
Once you’re prepared, follow these steps:
Disassemble the Tap
First remove the button at the top of the tap spindle, or the locking nut under the tap handle, depending on the style of the tap. Loosen and remove the handle, then remove the tap shroud by unscrewing anti-clockwise. This will expose the tap spindle. If the shroud is on tight or stuck due to a build-up of soap scum, place a rag around it and use a footprint wrench to get it loose. It’s important that you don’t damage or scratch the shroud, so do this carefully.
Remove the Tap Spindle Body
Place an adjustable shifting spanner on the nut of the spindle and turn it anti-clockwise. You need to completely remove the spindle to expose the jumper valve. The stem of the jumper valve may either be stuck in the spindle body or sitting on the tap seat in the housing. Jumper valve bodies are made of either plastic or brass, so if it is sitting in the tap body, use a pair of long nose pliers to remove the jumper valve. You will then be able to see if the washer is split or the rubber has worn down or perished.
Replace the Jumper Valve Washer
Make sure there is no dirt or debris sitting on the valve seat, then place your new Jumper Valve Washer inside the tap spindle. Place the spindle body back over the housing and screw it down in a clockwise direction until it is hand tight. Now gently tighten with a shifting spanner making sure not to overtighten.
Place Handle Back on and Turn Water on at the Water Meter
Turn the tap off before replacing the tap shroud by placing the handle back on the spindle and winding it down in a clockwise direction. Turn off any other sets of taps in the house before turning the water supply back on at the water meter. Now turn on the tap you’ve repaired, opening it up so that any debris is flushed out of the pipes before turning the tap off again.
Test for Leaks and Replace the Shroud
Open and close the tap several times to check if any drips or leaks remain. Opening and closing the tap should be easy and should not require much pressure to turn off. Once you’re sure that you’ve repaired the leak, remove the handle again, install the shroud, then replace the tap handle and locking bolt or screw.
That’s all there is to it, job done! If you’d rather leave this kind of job to a professional, Fast Plumber is your local plumber who’s ready to help. We arrive punctually, fix the problem quickly, and clean up before leaving! Contact us today with any questions or plumbing problems on 1800 00 FAST or mobile 0437 288 80. You can also send us an email to info@thefastplumber.com.au