Tap Leak

There are many taps designs around. A common type is the type below with a spindle operated action. This type of tap has a rubber ‘O’ ring instead of the gland packing.Note: If you remove the tap operating head you will be able to see that the water is escaping past the spindle if the tap is turned on. Acton Plumbers fit washers on taps.To Fix a Leaky Tap:1). Firstly isolate the water supply for the tap with the leak. Then, undo and take off the shrouded cover and remove the headgear from the tap’s body. Next, un-house the circlip that fits at the top of the valve. This can be done with a screwdriver, however you should really use a pair of circlip pliers. You may have to borrow a set from a kind neighbour. They are available at all good tool retailers. Either the screwdriver or pliers need to be placed between the open edges and twisted very gently, this will force the circlip apart, once done you can slip it from the spindle.Note: Beware, circlips are very brittle and will sometimes snap. If this happens don’t worry, you can get them from merchants. So just fit a new one.2). You should now have the tap’s headgear safely in your hands. Now, push on the top of the spindle, unscrew and remove it from its brass housing. You should now see an ‘O’ ring. This old ‘O’ ring can now be flipped off, which again can be achieved by using the small screwdriver. An Acton Plumber can refit ‘O’ rings. Replace this old ‘O’ ring with a new one. You can use silicon grease to provide a lubricant and ensure a good seal. Finally re-build the tap.4). Once the tap is completed you will need to test it and confirm you have done it correctly. If the repair does not resolve the leak it could be because of excessive spindle wear. If so, then replace with a new tap.