How To Fix A Stiff Bathroom Tap

A stiff bathroom tap can be a frustrating problem, but it's usually one that you can fix yourself with a few simple tools and a little bit of know-how. In this article, we'll walk you through the essential steps on how to fix a stiff bathroom tap, so you can get your water flowing smoothly again in no time.

Before starting, it is crucial to ensure you have the necessary tools and materials. You will need a wrench, a screwdriver, a pair of pliers, and a new washer or o-ring for the tap. Additionally, a few drops of lubricant can be helpful in loosening the tap.

Once you have gathered your tools, the first step is to turn off the water supply to the tap. You can usually do this by turning the stopcock or valve located under the sink. Once the water is turned off, you can remove the aerator from the tap. The aerator is the small, screened piece at the end of the tap that helps to mix air with the water. To remove the aerator, simply unscrew it by hand or with a wrench.

With the aerator removed, you can now access the tap cartridge. The tap cartridge is the part of the tap that controls the flow of water. To remove the tap cartridge, you will need to use a wrench to loosen the packing nut. Once the packing nut is loose, you can pull the tap cartridge out of the tap body.

Once you have removed the tap cartridge, you can inspect it for any damage. If the tap cartridge is damaged, you will need to replace it with a new one. To replace the tap cartridge, simply insert the new cartridge into the tap body and tighten the packing nut.

With the new tap cartridge installed, you can now reassemble the tap. To do this, simply screw the aerator back onto the tap and turn the water supply back on. Once the water is turned on, check for any leaks. If there are any leaks, you may need to tighten the packing nut or replace the washer or o-ring.

By following these steps, you should be able to fix a stiff bathroom tap yourself. If you are still having problems, you may need to call a plumber.