Stop the Drip

Plumbing maintenance has to be carried out from time to time especially on systems that consist moving parts such as taps and the mechanism of cisterns. It is important to inspect these moving parts periodically to ensure that they are operating smoothly. Taps and Stopcocks Plumbing equipment in the home is rarely noticed or appreciated until some thing goes wrong. Regular routine maintenance is required where there are moving parts such as taps, stopcocks, flushing/flouting and cut-off valves. The dripping tap and the faulty overflow are two common problems always experienced in the homes; repair is normally straight forward without major domestic disruption. The most common and irritating fault is that of the dripping tap. Because of the constant use of tap, one must choose highly efficient tap because of its frequent use. There are two type of tap- the bib tap which has horizontal water in-let and the pillar tap with a vertical inlet. Both work on the sane principle, a resilient washer is press down over the valve seat when the tap is tuned down, preventing water flow from inlet to outlet This washer seat loosely at the base of the spindle, the handle attaches to the spindle, when the handle is turned the spindle rises allowing the water pressure to lift the jumper and water to flow. There is another type of jumper that does jump, this is attach to a spindle by a press fit, this is used in situations where water is at low- pressure, and would not raise conventional jumper. This washer is the weak part of the system. It may become worn or the valve seat becomes partially obstructed as a result of foreign particles preventing the washer from correctly seating, leading to the familiar dripping. Before you dismantle dripping tap, first turn on fully, as a sudden force of water may dislodge an obstruction. If t fails you have to turn off the water mains and dismantle the tap for repairs. Before starting, assemble all the tools and materials you may require so as to minimize domestic dislocation. If kitchen tap is involved or concerned you should turn off the main stopcock. This stop cock should be inspected occasionally. Never leave it fully open or it may jam. Grease the stem periodically to ensure that it can operate quickly and smoothly in the case of emergency.