Have you ever been startled awake by a leaky tap in the middle of the night? Or did you discover your sink dripping with water when you got home? If so, you are aware of how annoying a leaky tap can be. In addition to being irritating, it can waste a lot of water. You might grab your mobile and think,  “Who is the best blocked drain plumber near me? Or who can fix my leaky tap with the most expertise? I should call them.”  

The good news is that stopping your tap from leaking is just a few simple measures away. Here are some quick tips to help you get going.

Check The Washer

Small rubber or metal discs called washers offer an airtight barrier that stops leaks. However, washers can crack and become brittle with time, which allows water to leak through. You may lessen the likelihood of leaks by routinely checking the washers and changing them as necessary. Additionally, it’s critical to confirm that the washer matches the tap’s style and dimensions. A poor seal will result from a washer that is either too small or too large, and leaks are likely to occur.

Tighten The Tap’s Screws

The screws holding the tap together may loosen with time, allowing water to spill. One of the first things you should do if you see that your tap is beginning to drip is to check the screws to make sure they are snug. The leak can frequently be stopped by tightening the screws. You could need new screws if the old ones are stripped.

Make sure the water pressure isn’t excessively high or low.

Insufficient pressure can lead to corroded pipes that finally stop working. On the other side, excessive pressure can overstress fittings and joints, resulting in loosening and leakage. The best approach to guarantee that your water pressure is perfect is to have a pressure-regulating valve installed by a skilled plumber. You can get this done by Locality Plumbing, your go-to Commercial Plumber in Melbourne. And no matter what changes occur in your water supply line, this straightforward device fitted by us will automatically maintain the pressure within a safe range.

Ensure That The Tap Is Correctly Aligned

The components of the tap may fall slightly out of alignment with regular use, resulting in a steady trickle. The good news is that this issue can be solved quickly. Just unscrew the tap cap, then carefully move the neoprene washer until it is properly positioned against the seat. Put the cap back on after completing this, and turn on the water to check for leaks.

Check the tap for cracks.

When taps are used frequently, wear and tear can result in minor cracks that may eventually get larger and lead to more serious leaks. Regularly checking the tap will allow you to spot any cracks early on and have them fixed before they cause more significant damage.

Debris Blocking The Tap Should Be Removed

Debris can accumulate in taps very rapidly, especially if the water in your location is hard. This could be anything from mineral deposits to dirt and sludge. The seals and joints may eventually become overworked and leak if these things obstruct the water flow. Regular cleaning is necessary, and any buildup should be gently removed with a gentle brush. You might need to apply a moderate cleaning solution if the buildup is extremely difficult to remove. To protect the finish of your tap, make sure to properly rinse off the cleaning agent afterward.

Check If The Shutoff Valve Is Operational

The shutoff valve, which controls the flow of water to the tap, is situated beneath the sink. The valve may rust or suffer damage over time, which might result in leaks. Leaks can be avoided by routinely inspecting the shutdown valve and replacing it if necessary. Additionally, it’s a good idea to be aware of the location of your main water shutoff valve in case of an emergency.

Fix The Packing Nut On The Tap Stem Tightly

Under the tap’s handle is a packing nut that is used to tighten or loosen the stem. Water will leak around the stem if the packing nut is too loose. In a similar vein, a packing nut that is overly tight might harm the stem and eventually produce a leak. Therefore, when tightening the packing nut, it’s crucial to strike the appropriate balance.

Replace The Gasket On The Tap If Outdated Or Worn Out

Between the handle and the tap’s base is a little rubber ring called the gasket. The gasket may no longer produce a snug fit if it becomes hard and brittle over time. As a result, the tap may drip if water seeps past the gasket and into the handle. Fixing a leaky tap by replacing the gasket is a fairly easy and affordable technique. Simply take off the handle, remove the previous gasket, and replace it with the new one.

Examine The Pipes Leading To The Tap For Leaks

The seals around the pipe joints can degrade, causing water to seep out. This can be avoided by routinely monitoring for leaks. There are several methods for searching for leaks. If your tap is outdoors, start by scanning the area for any damp patches on the ground. If you notice any, your pipe probably has a leak. You may also hear if your tap is making any dripping noises. If you hear any, there is perhaps a leak as well.

Make Sure That The Water Is Not Freezing

When pipes’ water freezes, it expands and puts pressure on them, which can lead to a leak or a pipe breaking. Older homes with copper or galvanized steel pipes are more susceptible to this. To prevent the water from freezing, keep the thermostat set to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit and insulate any exposed pipes in unheated locations. In order to keep the water flowing and assist in preventing freezing, if you know there will be a cold snap, you should leave a trickle of water running from each tap overnight. By taking these steps, you can save money on future repairs.

Make Sure The Tap Is Not Corroded

Small gaps or cracks may occur on the tap as a consequence of corrosion, which allows water to seep through and produce a leak. Corrosion can also lead to the sealant around the tap deteriorating, opening up yet another potential route for leaks. Use a mild cleaner and a soft cloth to remove corrosion. You might need to use a specialized product made for eliminating corrosion from metal if the corrosion is severe.

Service Your Tap Right Now!

We, Locality Plumbing, are the tap specialists you need in Melbourne! For further peace of mind and to ensure that you receive the most value for your money, we also provide a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you have blocked drains in Melbourne, you know we are among one of the best plumbing service providers. Please make sure to call us to service your tap.