Fixing taps

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Fixing Taps
Wilco Plumbing Services
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Reseating a Tap
Once you have fixed a leaking tap by replacing
the tap washers and it does not stop leaking, the
tap may need to be re-seated. Again, a licensed
plumber can re-seat your trap if your state laws
do not allow it. Make sure you check before
performing this DIY. Reseating helps remove the
corrosion build up and calcium allowing the
washer to have a tighter seal. The tools used for
this process include a tap re-seating tool apart
from those used to fix the leaking tap.

• Screw the tap reseating tool in the tap body.
  Ensure that you havent screwed it in on too
  tight as it can damage the seat. Rotate the tool
  in a clockwise direction applying firm downward
  pressure. Rotate until centre has no restriction.
  
• Unscrew the tool to check if the seat is shiny.
  If its still dull, repeat the process again. A
  badly damaged seat will take time and several
  attempts to be cleaned so be patient. In case of
  doubt, consult a licensed plumber.
• When you are sure it is shiny, reassemble the tap
  after flushing the metal filings out of the tap
  body.

Next, you have to unscrew the tap bonnet with the
use of a spanner or wrench. You should be able to
see the o-ring, large body washer and tap valve,
which should all fall out. If it doesnt, use
pliers to take it out and its best to replace all
three to prevent water from dripping. Lubricate
the spindle and threaded areas when you
reassemble the tap, turn it ¾ off and turn on the
main water supply. With gentle finger pressure,
turn the tap off slowly. Do not over tighten
because it can damage the tap washer and seat. If
youve fitted the components correctly, you will
find no more leaks in your tap and it will turn
on and off easily.
Fixing a Tap Leak
Leaking taps are not only annoying, they create
unnecessary noise in an otherwise silent home and
the unused and wasted water tipping drop by water
raises your water bill unnecessarily. In some
parts of Australia, you cannot replace inside
pipes or taps by law, so make sure you check the
rules with the local water authority before
performing this DIY repair. The tools that you
will need to repair a leaking tap include a
wrench, pliers, screwdriver, new washers (o-ring,
body washer or tap valve), and Vaseline. Turn off
the main water supply and clear any remaining
water in the pipe by turning on the tap. Cover
the basin with a plug-in to save any tap parts
from going missing in the drain. Find the screw,
which is usually under the tap cover or on the
side and undo it to remove the handle.
Fixing Taps
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Contact Us
Parramatta Address
02 9186 3782
15/103 George Street Parramatta, NSW 2150
Leichhardt Address
02 8880 6409
Shop 1, 452 Parramatta Road Leichhardt, NSW 2040
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reserved, Wilco Electrical Services ABN
88603984836 Licence 22959C