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How Long Do Ceramic Disc Cartridges Last? A lifetime. But it depends on the hardness of your water (contact your water provider), and the quality of the tap itself. A cheap tap, even with ceramic discs, is going to wear down over time.
Do ceramic taps wear out?
Occasionally, they do wear out, causing dripping and leaking. The reason for this is hard water which is full of minerals, harmful for all household appliances that use it. When the ceramics wear out, the whole cartridge has to be replaced, not only the discs.
How long do ceramic tap washers last?
Ceramic tap washers can last years, but other types can last for as little as twelve months depending on how frequently they’re used.
Why do ceramic disc taps leak?
Ceramic disc taps feature a cartridge within the tap that contain a pair of ceramic discs. If you do experience dripping this is usually caused by a scratched ceramic disc. In order to rectify the leak you must replace the entire cartridge as follows.
How long should a tap last?
Modern taps and faucets tend to be quite well made and can usually last around 10 years. When the finish starts wearing away and the handles become discoloured or cracked, it’s generally a warning sign that your taps washers, O-rings, screws, clips, and valve assembly might need replacing.
Are ceramic taps better?
Plumbing connections for ceramic disc are no different to other taps, and with that comes all the ease of a quarter-turn technology, and a more durable, longer lasting tap without those annoying leaks. From a long-term maintenance point of view, ceramic disc taps are much better than normal taps.
Can ceramic tap washers be replaced?
Remove the retaining washer and tap it on the kitchen or bathroom surface. With any luck, the ceramic disc cartridge will fall out of the valve body. You can replace the actual discs themselves though this is a far more precise, specialist task.
What is the best type of tap washer?
Nylon tap washers are a popular option for sealing tap valves closed. Due to their properties, nylon spacer washers provide a reliable seal on most types of tap. Typically, nylon sealing washers are chosen for offering: High strength.
Why is my tap leaking at the base?
When it becomes worn or cracked, water can seep down along the faucet body and out the bottom when the valve is turned on. Less commonly, leaks in this area can be caused by an inner cartridge that has become worn. If fixing the O-ring doesn’t help, you may need to replace the valve cartridge, as well.
Do ceramic taps have washers?
Nowadays, the vast majority of modern bathroom taps use ceramic disc cartridges instead of rubber washers. In simple terms, this means no (or at least far fewer) leaks, and only a 90-degree rotation to turn the tap on or off. Back in days of old, taps and shower fittings always used rubber washers to prevent dripping.
How often do taps need replacing?
Contemporary taps tend to last up to 10 years, however, if your tapware is past its expiration date, they’re at risk of causing damage to your home, your family and increasing your water bill due to leaks.
When should you change taps?
‘ Tap washers can last a long time, but sometimes they can only last 12 months or less. You know your tap washers need replacing when the taps are turned off and the faucet still drips. Or if the water won’t turn off – which is a sign that the tap washer has been completely stripped and no longer seals on the tap seat.
How long should a kitchen mixer tap last?
Mixer taps generally last for 5-10 years and they only have a 1 year warranty. So if the tap is over 1 year old, expect to replace it for a new one.
How do ceramic tap cartridges work?
Ceramic disc cartridges are simply two ceramic discs with holes through them. One disc is fixed in place whilst the other moves with the tap handle. When both discs are in alignment, the water is allowed to flow through the tap. When they are no longer aligned, the water stops.
Are some tap washers better?
They are more durable and longer wearing, saving the inconvenience and expense at having to replace washers. Less wear and tear on the tap as there is no constant turning to get a good flow of water.
How many types of tap washers are there?
To break it down, there are four basic tap type configurations: compression tap washer, ball, disk and cartridge.
What is the standard tap washer size?
The majority of inside taps take 12mm (1/2″) washers, while outside taps (garden taps) take 3/4″ (18mm).
How do you fix a tap that keeps turning?
Turn the valve stem over and unscrew the washer on the end with a Phillips screwdriver. Replace it with a new one and tighten the screw to hold it, instructs This Old House. Drop the valve back into the faucet, screw on the retaining nut and tighten it with pliers. Replace the handle and turn on the water.
Do some taps not have washers?
Washers for most taps above come in standard sizes. However, some modern taps do without washers altogether or may have different seals. See below for more on washerless taps. You may find an isolation valve on the pipe below the tap you need to work on.
Can you still get taps with washers?
Taps with the traditional rubber washer are still available. However, trying to identify them in Tool station for example, or any other catalogue is extremely difficult.
Do modern mixer taps have washers?
Some modern mixer taps (including monobloc taps) operate with ceramic discs instead of rubber washers, which are hidden inside cartridges within the tap. There is one cartridge for hot water and another for cold water.
