Guest Blogger: DIY – 7 Steps to Stop that Irritating Plumbing Drip

 Guest Blogger #530, Entry #1202, May 21, 2012

Are you tired of hearing that stubborn drip noise in your bathroom? My guest blogger gives tips to help you fix it without having to call a plumber.

A continually dripping tap generally indicates that the tap’s washer needs replacement although a damaged valve seating can also be the culprit. If you have a dripping mixer tap, you should change both washers.

Tips for fixing that irritating drip!

Image via: Furniture Fashion

Step 1.

In order to access the washer you will need to remove the tap headgear. First of all turn off the water supply either at the mains or underneath the taps at the service valve.

Step 2.

Ensure that the tap is turned on fully. A good tip at this point is to put the plug into the plughole. This will prevent any small components from the tap being lost down the waste pipe whilst you are making repairs.

Step 3.

If the tap is a non-rising spindle type tap, use a flat head screwdriver to unscrew the cover or prise it off. The retaining screw will now exposed. Remove it and put it safely aside then remove the tap head.

With a rising spindle tap remove the index disc at the centre of the tap handle then remove the retaining screw to release the handle. Remove the metal shroud from the headgear nut using an adjustable spanner.

Step 4.

Unfasten the larger headgear nut with a spanner. This may be tricky if the nut is stiff but force must not be used. The application of some penetrating oil around the joint may help. Several applications may be required and you must be sure to allow at least 10 minutes for the oil to soak in completely before trying again.

Step 5.

Inspect the valve seat inside the tap. If this is in poor condition, the seal between the washer and valve seat will still be leaky even with a replacement washer. You can solve this by using a combined washer and seating set – these available at all good hardware and DIY shops.

7 steps to help you fix your leaky tap

Image via: Bhg

Step 6.

Now you are ready to replace the washer. Use a screwdriver to prise off the damaged washer. There may be a small nut securing it in place and you will need to unscrew it using a spanner. As before, use penetrating oil if the nut is stiff then remove the washer.

Step 7.

Finally fit the new washer. You can use either silicone gel or Vaseline grease for the threads on the base of the tap to reassemble the unit.

James Christie writes for Business Directory Thomson Local. Use Thomson to find plumbers throughout the UK.

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