When a tap starts dripping, you need to fix the dripping tap without wasting any time. Because if the dripping continues for a long time, it will cause real inconvenience for the homeowners. In addition to the inconvenience, dripping taps also cause a waste of money and water. So what should one do to avoid this unwanted situation?
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First, locate the exact leaking point and start the fixing procedure. Luckily, it is easy to identify the dripping point. The identification of the dripping point helps determine the fixing methodology. The repair or fixing work is also not complex. Read the article till the end to amplify your knowledge about the common plumbing issue discussed above.
Common Points to Ponder About the Dripping Taps
A dripping tap is not only a financial burden but is also a cause of mental stress. A few of the common queries of people to fix dripping taps are discussed in this section.
Can I fix the dripping tap myself?
As we discussed earlier, the dripping taps are inconvenient and annoying. Therefore, most homeowners immediately call a plumber upon identifying any such faucet. Calling a plumber is the best option technically, but not financially. Furthermore, fixing a dripping tap is one thing you can improve to reduce the financial burden.
In addition, it is not very difficult, but you only need to have some basic plumbing tools and self-confidence. Conclusively, you can fix your dripping tap yourself without much headache.
Is a Dripping Tap Dangerous?
Yes, a dripping tap is dangerous because of multiple reasons. The first reason is that it is a continuous source of water waste and wasting the retarding natural resources is no less than a crime. Secondly, you have to fix the issue at some stage, and if you keep ignoring the problem, you will need to shower more money to resolve the issue.
Lastly, water starts to pool around the tap, a terrible scene for a homeowner. Considering all these issues, you will need to capture and clear the problem without wasting time.
What Causes Tap to Drip?
Several causes of the dripping tap are possible, and the few most common reasons are listed below:
- Damaged cartridge
- Damaged washers
- Extensive water pressure
- Malfunctioning of O-rings
- Deteriorated valve seat
How to Stop a Dripping Tap Without a Washer?
There are a few temporary solutions that you can use instead of the washers to fix the leaking tap. But these methods are not sustainable, and you will eventually need to replace the washer.
A common alternative to the washer is to drill a hole in the middle of a coin and use it. But this solution is also more expensive than using a washer. The comprehensive fixing method of a dripping tap is discussed in the next section.
Methodological Steps to Fix Dripping Tap
This section will explain the steps to fix the leaking issue of a tap.
1. Cut off the Water Supply
The first step to start any plumbing work is to cut off the water supply to that area. If you do not have a dedicated valve for the part of the house, you will need to cut off the whole house’s water supply. Cutting off the water supply will help you complete the plumbing work without any disturbances.
2. Loosen the Screw
If your tap has a handle cap, remove it. Afterward, you will find a screw inside the cold and hot water tap assembly. You need to loosen this screw. A slot-headed screwdriver can help you ease the screw.
3. Disassemble the Parts of the Tap
You need to disassemble the tap parts and place them safely. It is important to note that you must remember the disassembling sequence because reinstallation of these parts is the reverse of the disassembling method.
The valve will now become visible. Rotate and grip the valve until it seems loose enough to remove. An adjustable spanner will do the process efficiently. Now you should insert your new tap cartridge and tighten it. Now reassemble the tap in the correct order.
4. Place the New Rubber Washers
When you loosen the screw inside, you should replace the washers with rubber washers. These rubber washers are not prone to being rusty.
5. O-Ring Issue
Once you know there is no other issue with the washer and assembly; you need to replace the O-rings. The O-ring is a bigger version of the washers at the bottom of your tap spout. The replacement method of o-rings is simple, and you can do it yourself.
Conclusion
Every homeowner wants to fix dripping tap in the event of a leakage. There are some questions that you might be looking for an answer to. Moreover, it would help if you focused on the methodological steps of rectification. In most cases, replacing an O-ring or washer is enough to stop the leakage.