It's late evening, and the house is quiet, but there's a sound that breaks the silence – the persistent dripping of a tap. Not only is it slightly annoying, but it also prompts a niggling worry about the potential waste and the unknown repercussions it might have on your water bill and home. So, what causes a tap to continue dripping even after you've firmly turned it off, and more importantly, what can you do to fix this common household irritation?
When faced with a dripping tap, it's crucial to understand the mechanisms involved, identify the issue, and know how to approach a repair. Sometimes, fixing a dripping tap is a straightforward DIY task, while other times, it might be a sign of a more complicated plumbing issue that requires professional attention.
Understanding Why Taps Drip
Taps mainly drip because of wear and tear on the washer or the valve seat, or sometimes due to improper installation. Each time you turn a tap on, pressure is applied to the washer, which seals against the valve seat. Over time, this constant pressure can cause the washer to deteriorate, or for debris to damage the valve seat, leading to water leakage.
1. Worn-Out Washer:
The washer is the most common culprit behind a dripping tap. It's a small, rubber (or sometimes silicone) disc that sits inside the tap mechanism, providing a water-tight seal. As it ages or degrades, it allows small amounts of water to seep through, manifesting as a drip.
2. Damaged Valve Seat:
The valve seat is where the tap washer seals against when the tap is closed. Water minerals can accumulate here, causing corrosion or grooving, and if the valve seat is damaged, a perfect seal is no longer possible, leading to a drip.
3. Improper Washer Installation:
If a washer is not the correct size or not installed properly, it won't seal correctly. Even a new washer can lead to dripping if it isn't a perfect fit.
4. High Water Pressure:
In some cases, dripping taps can be caused by excessively high water pressure pushing water through even when the tap is off. This usually presents as more of a continuous stream than a simple drip.
DIY Fixes for a Dripping Tap
Dealing with a dripping tap primarily involves accessing the internal mechanisms, which for someone with basic DIY skills, isn't overly daunting. Here's how to tackle this issue:
- Turn off the Water Supply:
Before starting any work on your plumbing, ensure you turn off the water supply to the tap to prevent a minor repair turning into a flood.
- Dismantle the Tap:
Most taps have a cover on the handle that can be gently prised open to reveal a screw. Undo this screw and remove the handle to access the headgear beneath, which houses the washer.
- Inspect and Replace the Washer:
Once you’ve exposed the washer, inspect it for wear and replace it if necessary. Ensure you choose the right size and thickness for your tap's model.
- Check the Valve Seat:
Look inside the tap where the washer sits against the valve seat. If you see any damage or corrosion, you may need a specific tool called a valve seat reseamer to smooth it out or potentially replace it.
- Reassemble the Tap:
Once the washer (and potentially the valve seat) is dealt with, reassemble the tap. Make sure everything is tightened securely but don’t over-tighten as this can damage new parts.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
While many tap issues can be resolved with a simple washer replacement, some problems might need a more experienced hand, especially if:
- The entire tap unit is severely damaged or aged.
- There is continuous high water pressure causing the dripping.
- You’re unable or unsure about how to replace damaged valve seats.
- You've replaced the washer, and the tap still drips, indicating possibly a more serious issue.
Long-term Prevention
To avoid frequent tap repairs:
- Regularly clean taps to prevent mineral build-up.
- Consider installing a water softener if you live in a hard water area to reduce mineral accumulation.
- Regularly check and maintain all household taps to catch issues before they escalate.
Conclusion
A dripping tap is more than just an annoyance; it can be symptomatic of worn-out parts or installation issues. For those with budding DIY skills, replacing a washer or cleaning a valve seat can be satisfying and effective. However, if the problem persists or you're unsure, it’s advisable to consult a professional. Regular maintenance remains your best defence against plumbing problems, ensuring the longevity and efficiency of your home's plumbing system. Consider this approach not just as fixing a problem, but as preserving your home.
