Common causes of leaking kitchen taps
- Faulty cartridge (for single-lever taps): Single-lever taps operate differently from the conventional taps that are fitted with separate knobs for the hot and cold water supply by using a cartridge in responding to the water flow and temperature. One issue that can emerge is leakage which is from the base part of the handle of the cartridge.
- Worn-out washers: These are the biggest causes of leakage problems in taps. Nylon Washers are rubber rings that are used to block the passage of water through the valve system. They can get damaged or develop cracks over time and this can lead to penetration of water through the appliance.
- Damaged O-rings or seals: These are rubber gaskets that seal tap joints to prevent water leakage or seepage inside the tap. Like with any of the other components such as the washers, O-rings and seals may wear out with time and thus develop a leakage problem.
- Loose tap handle or body: This is exemplified by a loose handle or body that may point at a worn-out nut or fitting from where water leaks at the base of the tap.
- Corroded or broken tap parts: Mineral deposits and the use of abrasive materials to clean cause corrosion and damage to the tap parts with a possible effect of rip-off of the whole unit hardware.
If you suspect your kitchen tap might be leaking, here are some tell-tale signs to watch out for:
- Dripping or running water from the spout: This is a result of water seeping through the walls and accumulating at certain areas or points usually visible from the outside. Although it seems to be a small volume of water dripping, it is disturbing how much water will be wasted within a given time frame.
- Puddles around the base of the tap: This is signified by a steady accumulation of water around the base of the tap that does not flow even when the tap is turned on. If this moisture is left to stay for quite some time, it will result in the formation of mould and damage to your cabinets.
- Noisy tap operation (squeaking, hissing): Most people do not pay attention to the sound produced by their tap, but any strange noise that this fixture makes is likely to be a sign that its interior has worn out, and may soon be causing a leakage.
- Difficulty turning the tap handle: If the tap handle is stiff or sloppy then it is likely that the washer, cartridge, or fitting at the end is cracked or the tap fitting is loose all of which may result in leaks.
- Reduced water pressure: A substantial pressure loss whether you are in the kitchen running water through the tap could mean a blockage in the tap unit and might lead to leaking.
While some folks might be tempted to tackle a leaky kitchen tap repair themselves, there are several advantages to calling in a professional plumber:
- Experienced and licenced plumbers: It is also important to point out the fact that the employed plumbers know when and how they need to repair the leakage and the knowledge and experience they gain help them more when identifying the cause of the leakage. They are also bonded and insured and that is a sign that when hire them they will work well and will not harm you.
- Expertise in repairing all types of kitchen taps: Whether it is a two-handled tap that comes as a standard kitchen fit and is now aged and faulty, or a fashionable single-lever mixer that regulates hot and cold water, professional plumbers possess the expertise and equipment to conduct these types of tap repairs.
- Fast and reliable service: Many plumbing companies work on an emergency basis; thus, they can meet one’s demands within the same day or the following day. It means at First Class Plumbing, you are not stuck with a leaking tap for a single day longer than you must.
Getting rid of a leaky kitchen tap goes beyond saving yourself the needless frustration, but conserving water while saving your cabinetry from potential water damage. Here are some simple preventative maintenance tips to keep your tap functioning smoothly for years to come:
Cleaning Routine:
- Regular wipe down: One aspect in particular that you should consider is the habit of regularly cleaning the surface of the kitchen tap. Therefore, it is recommended that you clean the tap’s surface at least once a week using a cloth moistened with water and mild soap. This helps to rid it of the grime, soap scum and minerals that we encounter in our day-to-day lives and some of the causes of wear to the surface of the bath.
- Focus on the sprayer: If the tap has this special feature of a pull-out or sprayer then this is a sign that the nozzle will be producing a build-up, it should thus be washed. This may to blockage of the pores, particularly the small pores that are used to release the spray pattern. If removable, this should be flushed out with warm water; the nozzle particularly should be immersed in vinegar solution if it is crusted. In washing rejoinment, wash in plain water, which is running water and other rejoinment to dry before use.