How to Loosen a Stiff Bathroom Tap
There's nothing more frustrating than a stiff bathroom tap that won't budge. Whether it's the hot or cold tap, a stubborn tap can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks like washing your hands or brushing your teeth. But don't worry, loosening a stiff bathroom tap is usually a quick and easy fix that you can do yourself.
Causes of a Stiff Bathroom Tap
Before you start trying to loosen a stiff tap, it's helpful to understand what might be causing the problem. Some common causes include:
- Mineral buildup: Over time, minerals from the water can build up on the inside of the tap, causing it to become stiff.
- Corrosion: Corrosion can also cause the tap to become stiff, especially if it's made of metal.
- Worn washers: The washers inside the tap can wear out over time, causing the tap to leak and become stiff.
- Loose screws: Sometimes, the screws that hold the tap in place can become loose, causing the tap to wobble and become stiff.
Tools You'll Need
Before you start, gather the following tools:
- Wrench or pliers
- Screwdriver
- WD-40 or other penetrating oil
- Rag or cloth
Step-by-Step Instructions
Once you have your tools, follow these step-by-step instructions to loosen a stiff bathroom tap:
- Turn off the water supply. This is usually done by turning the valve under the sink.
- Open the tap to release any remaining water.
- Use a wrench or pliers to loosen the packing nut. This is the nut that is located just below the handle of the tap.
- Pull the handle off the tap. Be careful not to damage the handle or the tap.
- Inspect the washer. If the washer is worn or damaged, replace it with a new one.
- Apply a small amount of WD-40 or other penetrating oil to the threads of the packing nut.
- Reassemble the tap by screwing the packing nut back on and tightening it with the wrench or pliers.
- Turn the water supply back on and check for leaks.
Tips
- If the tap is still stiff after following the above steps, you may need to call a plumber.
- To prevent future stiff taps, it's a good idea to regularly clean and lubricate the taps.
- If you have hard water, it's especially important to clean and lubricate your taps regularly to prevent mineral buildup.
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