QA

Question: How To Repair A Ceramic Disc Dripping Tap

Can ceramic disc taps be repaired?

Ceramic tap cartridge repair or replacement. Before conducting this process, please check with your local plumber (or get in touch with our expert team here) that you have acquired the correct replacement ceramic disc catridge. To repair or replace a ceramic disc cartridge you will need: New ceramic tap cartridge.

How do I fix a dripping ceramic faucet?

How to Fix a Leaky Faucet: Ceramic Disk Type 2Loosen the setscrew with the hex wrench, and remove the handle. 3Lift off the decorative cap. 4Loosen the cartridge. 5Lift off the cartridge. 6Remove the seals on the bottom of the cartridge. 8Remove the O-ring from the faucet. 9Coat the O-ring with silicone grease.

What causes a ceramic disk type faucet to leak?

If this type of faucet leaks, the culprits are usually the inlet and outlet seals or sediment buildup in the inlets. The handle should be in the “on” position when repairing a disc faucet to prevent cracking the replacement seals.

Are ceramic disc taps any good?

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.

Why does my tap drip after I turn it off?

The faucet valve (working parts) is housed in the handle and controls the on/off, volume, and temperature control. Over time, a faucet valve can lose its ability to make a water-tight seal, so water will drip out even in the off position.

Can tap cartridges be repaired?

How to repair a ceramic tap, with advice on tap valve fitting, ceramic tap washer repair and ceramic tap cartridge replacement. It is very rare for the ceramic discs to wear out and the need to replace them is even rarer. It is, most often, just a case of dismantling the moving parts and servicing them.

How long do ceramic tap valves last?

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.

How does a ceramic faucet cartridge work?

A ceramic cartridge has three main parts: the ceramic discs, a stem, and a housing or case. The stem is attached to the faucet handle on one end, and to one of the ceramic discs on the other. Moving the handle to operate the faucet moves the stem which operates the “movable” disc.

How do I know what cartridge my faucet is?

Use a caliper or ruler and measure the cartridge. Do this by measuring from the base to the tip (from seat to splines). Pay attention to the length tier of your cartridge (Lengths range from 1–12). Next, identify the broach pattern with the broach chart (see page B-5).

Why do faucet cartridges fail?

Usually, cartridge faucet woes mean that the rubber O rings inside the faucet have worn out, or that passages within the cartridge have become clogged. To do this, find the two shutoff valves beneath the sink that control the plumbing leading to the faucet. Turn the valves clockwise to close them.

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.

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.

Do all taps have ceramic discs?

All modern taps, and some traditional taps will have ceramic disc cartridges.

What causes a tap to drip?

Traditional taps drip because an internal rubber seal, or washer, has perished and needs replacing. It is generally hiding under the decorative cap on top of the tap handle. Sometimes you can unscrew the cap by hand, or you may need the help of a slot-headed screwdriver or adjustable spanner.

How do you descale a tap cartridge?

Soak the cartridge in the water and vinegar mix for around 10 minutes. If when you take it out, the cartridge still has limescale on it, it simply needs to be soaked for longer. Add a little more vinegar to the mixture, soak a cloth in it and wrap it tightly around the cartridge.

How much does it cost to fix a dripping tap UK?

Cost of fitting and fixing taps Job Details Price Fix leaky kitchen tap Fix a standard mixer tap (spindle tap with washers*) that is dripping constantly. Assumes isolation valves are present. £60 Install outside tap Exterior wall behind kitchen sink – if isolation is possible. £95 – £130.

How long should a tap valve last?

Given the ever-improving quality of taps, modern tap designs can be expected to last between 15 and 20 years typically.

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 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.