Olivia Carter
If you have a Franke kitchen mixer tap that is constantly dripping, it’s not only annoying but can also lead to water wastage and increased water bills. Thankfully, fixing a dripping Franke kitchen mixer tap doesn’t have to be a difficult task. With a few simple steps, you can have your tap back in working order in no time.
Before you begin, it’s important to gather the necessary tools and materials. You will need an adjustable spanner, a cloth or towel, a pair of pliers, and a replacement cartridge for your Franke kitchen mixer tap. The cartridge is often the cause of the dripping and will need to be replaced.
Start by turning off the water supply to the tap. This can usually be done by locating the isolation valve beneath the sink and turning it clockwise. Once the water supply is off, turn on the tap to release any remaining water in the pipes. Place a cloth or towel in the sink to protect the surface and prevent any small parts from falling down the drain.
Using the adjustable spanner, carefully unscrew the retaining nut at the base of the tap. Once the nut is removed, you should be able to lift the handle and cartridge assembly out of the tap body. Inspect the cartridge for any signs of damage or wear and replace it if necessary.
Reassemble the tap by inserting the new cartridge into the tap body and securing it with the retaining nut. Use the adjustable spanner to tighten the nut, but be careful not to overtighten as this can cause damage. Turn on the water supply and check for any leaks. If the tap is still dripping, you may need to seek professional help to further diagnose and repair the issue.
By following these simple steps, you can fix a dripping Franke kitchen mixer tap and avoid unnecessary water wastage. Remember to always turn off the water supply before attempting any repairs and to exercise caution when working with plumbing fixtures. With a little patience and the right tools, you can have your tap back to its fully functional state in no time.
Gather Tools and Materials
Before attempting to fix a dripping Franke kitchen mixer tap, you will need to gather a few tools and materials to ensure a successful repair.
- Adjustable wrench
- Flathead and Phillips head screwdrivers
- Plumber’s tape
- Replacement parts (such as O-rings)
- Bucket or towel to catch any water
Having these tools and materials ready ahead of time will make the repair process smoother and more efficient.
Turn Off Water Supply
Before you begin fixing a dripping Franke kitchen mixer tap, it is essential to turn off the water supply. This step is crucial to prevent any accidental water leakage or damage while you work on the tap.
Locate the water shut-off valve under the sink. This valve is typically located on the wall or inside a cabinet. Turn the valve clockwise to shut off the water supply.
Once the water supply is turned off, open the tap to release any remaining water pressure. This will help prevent any water from spurting out when you start disassembling the tap.
Why is turning off the water supply important?
By turning off the water supply, you ensure that no water will flow through the tap while you work on it. This prevents any potential accidents, such as water leakage or flooding, and makes the repair process much safer and more manageable.
Additionally, turning off the water supply allows you to work on the tap without any water pressure. This makes it easier to diagnose and fix the issue, as you won’t have water spraying or interfering with your repair efforts.
Remember: Always turn off the water supply before working on any plumbing fixtures to ensure your safety and prevent any further damage.
Remove Handle and Cartridge
To fix a dripping Franke kitchen mixer tap, you will need to remove the handle and cartridge. Here are the steps:
1. Turn off the water supply
Before you start any work on the tap, ensure that the water supply is turned off. This will prevent any water from flowing and causing a mess.
2. Remove the handle
Using a screwdriver or an Allen key, carefully remove the handle of the tap. Look for a small screw or hexagonal nut located on the underside of the handle. Unscrew or loosen it to detach the handle from the tap.
3. Take out the cartridge
Once the handle is removed, you will see the cartridge behind it. Use an adjustable wrench or a pair of pliers to carefully remove the cartridge. Turn it counterclockwise until it is loose enough to be pulled out.
| Tip: | Wrap a cloth or towel around the cartridge to protect it from scratches while using the wrench or pliers. |
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4. Inspect the cartridge
Take a close look at the cartridge to check for any signs of wear or damage. Look for any cracks, corrosion, or mineral buildup. If you notice any issues, it may be necessary to replace the cartridge with a new one.
By following these steps, you can successfully remove the handle and cartridge of your Franke kitchen mixer tap. This will allow you to inspect and fix any issues that may be causing the dripping problem.
Install New Cartridge and Reassemble
Once you have purchased a new cartridge for your Franke kitchen mixer tap, it’s time to install it and reassemble the tap.
Begin by removing the cap on the handle of the tap. This can usually be done by gently prying it off with a screwdriver or by using a small flat-head tool.
Next, you will need to unscrew the handle itself. Depending on the model of your Franke tap, this may be done by twisting it counterclockwise or by releasing a small screw that holds it in place.
After removing the handle, you will see the old cartridge. Use a pair of pliers or an adjustable wrench to carefully pull it out of the tap. Be sure to note the orientation of the cartridge so that you can install the new one correctly.
Take the new cartridge and insert it into the hole where the old one was located. Push it in firmly to ensure a secure fit.
Once the new cartridge is in place, reattach the handle and screw it back on. Again, make sure it is securely fastened.
Finally, replace the cap on the handle to complete the reassembly process.
Your Franke kitchen mixer tap should now be fixed and no longer dripping. Test it by turning on the water and checking for any leaks.
FAQ
Why is my Franke kitchen mixer tap dripping?
A dripping Franke kitchen mixer tap can be caused by several factors. One common reason is that the washer inside the tap has worn out or become damaged, causing water to leak. Additionally, the tap’s cartridge may need to be replaced if it is old or faulty. High water pressure can also contribute to a dripping tap.
