Learn How To Fix Taps



Posted: Sunday, May 31, 2009

by Scott Rodgers
http://www.elocalplumbers.com

Of all the common plumbing problems, the issues of blockages and leaking taps are the two that probably spring most quickly to mind. The good news is that both are relatively easy to fix once you have mastered a few basic plumbing techniques. The old-fashioned looking taps with the tops that turn on and off are called compression taps. They are different from many of the more modern designs because the turning of the tap forces pressure against a washer which seals the tap shut. You will need some simple tools and parts to fix these and stop wasting precious gallons of water.

The important thing when fixing taps for the first time is to set aside time when you won't get interrupted and so you can concentrate on the job at hand. Maybe do the work when the kids are not in the house or when the babysitter is there. Also, put the plug into the sink so you don't lose any small parts down the drain. Also, have a container so you can put all the parts in the same place as you take the tap apart so you aren't trying to find them at the end of the task. And when you are starting to repair the tap, just take a moment to make sure you wouldn't rather replace the taps themselves. It could be that you have the budget to replace them, so it would be a waste of your time to repair them if you are going to replace them anyway. Plastic is cheaper but has a shorter life span more expensive materials because it can not handle wear and tear easily.

The first thing to do if repairing the tap is to turn off the water supply to the fixture. Remember to be eager about repairing the faucet because when the pressure is relieved water will shoot out and probably drench you and your entire water closet. If you can not discover the stopper for the taps you must stop water flow the entire home, which is usually next to the water meter.

The next step is to remove the tap cap. It might unscrew or possibly require levering off with a flat screwdriver. Take out the screw that keeps the lever on the valve pipe and remove the lever, and remove the outside layer of the the valve pipe if it exists. Now you'll be able to see a hex shape nut that can unscrew the valve stem assembly from the housing using an adjustable wrench. And then, now that the valve stem assembly is removed, you'll find the old washer on the end sitting in a valve seat.

Remove the brass screw and take out the old washer by using your tools. Clean the end of the washer holder and put in the new washer. If you don't know what size to replace it with, then take the old washer to the plumbing store and they will give you the right washer so that you can return and put the tap back together again. Buy a few spares so that you don't have to go back to the store each time you need a new washer. Put the tap back on gently after and maintain a steady stream for a couple of minutes to be certain there is no dripping.

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Scott Rodgers is a plumber who has recently begun writing articles for both a plumbing and non-plumbing audience. To view more of plumbing articles, visit http://eLocalPlumbers.com
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