How to disassemble and repair a single lever mixer. Repairing kitchen faucets with your own hands How to repair a rotary faucet

In the kitchen, the faucet is used much more actively than in the bathroom, so it breaks down much more often. In rare cases, the only solution to the problem that has arisen is to buy a new device and invite a plumber; in other cases, you can handle it yourself. By deciding to repair a kitchen faucet yourself, you will save on the services of a specialist and gain important experience. You just need to arm yourself with theory and tools.

Kitchen faucet repair - when and why it is necessary

Your kitchen faucet needs repair if you experience the following “symptoms”:

• Leakage from under the nut at the water outlet, from under the handle (lever) or mixer valves in working condition.
• The correct movement of the lever or valves is disrupted (they stick, turn, do not lock in the desired position, etc.).
• At normal water pressure in the system, the jet is not powerful enough.
• Water drips from a closed tap.

Please note: the detected problem must be resolved as quickly as possible! This will extend the service life of the mixer and protect yourself and your neighbors from flooding, saving money, time and nerves.

The problem that raises the most questions is a leaking faucet. And here you need to know the “enemy” not only by sight, but also from the inside. We are talking about the design of mixers.

Design features of the main types of kitchen faucets

Such delights as thermostatic and touchless faucets are good for bathrooms. In the kitchen, more practical models - traditional two-valve and single-lever - are fighting for a place in the sun. The common elements for them are: body, spout (spout), aerator, sealing gaskets. Otherwise they differ significantly.

Installation of two-valve taps

Faucets with two valves that are familiar to the eye are designed quite simply. Under the flywheel, which you turn when operating the structure, there is a crane-axlebox - its locking element. Below is the design of such a kitchen faucet in pictures.

Axleboxes in a two-valve mixer (sectional view)

In products where several revolutions of the flywheel are required to supply or shut off water, worm axle boxes are installed. Their work is based on rotational-translational movements. The more you unscrew the valve, the further the axle box gasket will move away from the so-called “saddle”. The consequence of this is the flow of water into the internal cavity of the mixer, and then into its spout (spout).

Worm worm valve axle box for mixer

In models where it is enough to make only half a revolution to supply water, axle boxes with ceramic plates are installed. When you open the tap, the holes in them coincide and water flows into the spout.

Crane axle boxes with ceramic plates

The cost of faucet axle boxes is low, they are always available in plumbing stores, and their replacement is extremely simple.

Design and types of single-lever mixers

More modern and practical are models of faucets with one handle (lever) that regulates pressure and temperature. Mixing water in them is carried out in a hollow ball with three holes or in a special cartridge.

The mixing element in ball models has three openings, two of which are inlets - designed to supply hot and cold water to this miniature container, and one outlet - for supplying water at a given temperature to the sink.

Ball mixer device

The ball itself is located on two rubber “saddles”. Its displacement relative to them, carried out when the lever moves, allows you to regulate the pressure and temperature of the water being poured out. The ball is secured at the top with a sealing collar and a lock nut.

Schematic structure of a ball model of a kitchen faucet

The operating principle of a mixer with a cartridge that replaces a ball is similar. At the same time, their internal structure is fundamentally different. There are still the same three functional holes, but inside the cartridge there is not a cavity, but special metal-ceramic disks. Due to their displacement relative to each other and the degree of overlap of the supply holes, when turning the lever, the water supply is adjusted.

Replaceable ceramic cartridges

The kitchen faucet is leaking - how to fix it yourself

To repair a kitchen faucet you will need:

• knife with a sharp end;
• hex and adjustable wrench;
• screwdrivers;
• a new cartridge, valve axle, rubber gasket, etc. - depends on which part you will change;
• WD40 is a technical aerosol that is useful if parts are “stuck” to each other. However, you can get by with the traditional tapping of a hammer on a screwdriver, but there is a high risk of damaging the mixer.

Regardless of which faucet you have installed, before starting repairs, you must turn off the water supply to the system and drain its remaining water into a sink or a separate container. To do this, just open the tap. Then you can begin to repair it, taking into account the design features.

To repair a single-lever faucet, you will need a hex wrench.

Single lever kitchen faucet repair

The main principles of repair are sequence of actions and accuracy.

1. Using a thin screwdriver or knife, pry and remove the decorative plug on the faucet body.
2. In the resulting hole you will see a screw connecting the lever and the adjusting rod. Unscrew it using a hex wrench.
3. Remove the lever from the body and unscrew the decorative casing. This can even be done by hand if the parts are not stuck to each other.

Removing the decorative casing

1. There will be a locking (clamping) nut underneath it. Gently unscrew it with an adjustable wrench or by tapping it with a hammer on a screwdriver.
2. If you disassemble the ball mixer, you will see a sealing collar under the nut. Inspect it for dirt, deformation and tears. Pull out the ball. Inspect its surface - it should be smooth and clean. It is necessary to remove the seals and support springs - their poor condition can cause the tap to leak.
3. If you are disassembling a faucet with a cartridge, remove it and thoroughly inspect it.
4. Replace the failed part.
5. Reassemble the faucet in reverse order.

It is important! Do not tighten the nuts too tightly, as this may lead to deformation of the rubber seals and disruption of the normal operation of the mixer.

Installing a new cartridge

To extend the service life of the product and ensure smooth running of its rubbing parts, you can use a special silicone lubricant.

Removing the mixer handwheel

Repair of a two-valve mixer

What to do if your two-valve faucet is dripping in your kitchen? Almost everything is the same.

• On the valve flywheel, pry up and remove the decorative plug.
• Using a screwdriver, unscrew the screw that secures the flywheel.
• Remove the flywheel. There will be a crane box in front of you.
• Unscrew it counterclockwise and inspect it.

• If it is a worm-type axlebox and its gasket is damaged, replace it separately - buy it in a store (costs pennies) or cut it yourself from rubber of a suitable thickness. The axle box with ceramic discs is replaced entirely.
• Reassemble the faucet in reverse order.

General scheme of mixer repair work

Everything is as simple as possible and slightly reminiscent of a construction set. But a leaking faucet is not the only problem you may encounter while using it in the kitchen.

Other faucet breakdowns and fault prevention

The quality of water in many cities leaves much to be desired, so over time the aerator in the tap can become dirty. On the inside, hard deposits “grow” on it. When there are too many of them, the pressure and quality of the water deteriorate significantly. The solution to the problem is to replace the aerator. Ideally, it can be easily unscrewed with an adjustable wrench, but for stuck parts you will need WD40 or tapping with a hammer.

It is important! Carry out all work carefully, otherwise the mixer will have to be replaced completely.

The faucet is leaking, and during the inspection you found a crack in it? Then it's time to go for a new product. For a short time, silicone sealant can be an assistant.

You can extend the life of the faucet if you install a water filter and use the device carefully, without tightening the valves too tightly or moving the lever suddenly and all the way.

Now you know what to do if your kitchen faucet is dripping. In most cases, the repair schemes discussed are also suitable for eliminating breakdowns of faucets in bathrooms. This is a good saving for the family budget. But if you are not confident in your abilities or you simply don’t have time, a competent plumber will complete all the work in a matter of minutes.

Any faucet installed in the kitchen has certain requirements - soft water pressure, simple temperature control and, most importantly,...

How to change a kitchen faucet + some tips for faucet repair

The sound of dripping water in the kitchen is undoubtedly annoying. In some cases, it can even cause insomnia. This sound is caused by a faulty mixer. .

How to repair a kitchen faucet yourself

Obtaining high-quality drinking water in a private house or apartment has ceased to be a problem with the advent of various filters and even entire systems.

Kitchen faucet for water filter: operating principle and do-it-yourself installation features

please help me, my situation is much more complicated than the one you described. The faucet in the kitchen (two taps, and a third pipe coming out from below to the shower, ending with a brush for washing vegetables and going out into a separate hole in the sink, sold together with a kitchen set, produced in Voronezh approximately 1979-82 ) in operation for only 5 years before that it was just lying there, it was a pity to throw it away. It’s a very convenient thing, it has a single-circuit water heater. The essence of the problem: when you open the tap, the water flows with good pressure for 1-2 seconds and then disappears altogether; if you open the tap slowly, the pressure remains. If you cross a certain pressure limit, it turns off spontaneously, given the presence of the column, it was scalded several times during that day, or you open the tap and the water doesn’t come out at all. (Yesterday after dinner I couldn’t wash the dishes) there was no water coming out at all. If you open the faucet in the bathroom, the water in the kitchen faucet will not disappear, but the pressure will be correspondingly small (if you have a cold water meter, this is not a good idea). It’s useless to call a Zhekovsky plumber (this summer the cartridge in my bathroom on the joystick faucet broke, so he couldn’t remove it for me, he said buy an old-style faucet with a coiled faucet. I’ll supply it for you). My husband went and bought new cranes and moved the bays, but the problem did not go away. If you can give me some constructive idea, please tell me. Thanks in advance, Elochka.

A faucet with a high twist in the kitchen is leaking at the turning point. How to remove the spout and change the rings. if there is no union nut. The spout is simply inserted into the mixer body. I couldn't find the answer anywhere.

Do-it-yourself kitchen faucet repair: step-by-step instructions and detailed video

When a crane needs repairs. Design of various types of mixers. The faucet is leaking in the kitchen - how to fix it, taking into account its design. Other problems with the mixer

DIY kitchen faucet repair

The kitchen tap provides us with water dozens of times a day. It is not surprising that it fails more often than in the bathroom. Before calling a plumber or buying a new faucet, you should try to repair it yourself.

If you are reading this article, then one of these breakdowns has occurred with your faucet:

• The faucet is leaking, water is dripping from under the handle;
• Water drips from the spout even when the valves are closed;
• When opening the mixer, a humming sound appears in the pipes;
• The water jet is too thin;
• The single-lever mixer operates in jerks;
• Water flows out from under the union nut on the spout;
• The tap lever does not lock in the desired position;
• Leak in the flywheel area (valve structures).

What is needed for repair

Before you start repairing a kitchen faucet with your own hands, you need to prepare all the tools and necessary faucet components.

• Hex wrench;
• Adjustment key;
• Cutter knife;
• Screwdriver and hammer.

Repairs also require additional materials - dry rags, lubricant. And if the faucet leaks, you will have to buy additional spare parts: a new cartridge or its parts (for a single-lever mixer), sealing rings, a faucet axle (for a two-valve design).

Repairing a single-lever ball-type mixer

There are four reasons why a faucet needs to be repaired:

• Cracks, chips caused by mechanical damage to the body;
• Blockage in the cartridge between the seats and the ball;
• Gasket wear;
• The aerator is clogged or rusty.

What to do if a defect appears on the case? You can try to repair it by cold welding - sealant (putty). But this is still a temporary measure, and soon you will still have to change the mixer.

If the problem is low water pressure, then most likely the cause is a clogged aerator. Then you need to take it out, clean the mesh, for example, with a toothbrush, and then install it back.

Let's look at the problems more seriously.

When the faucet leaks without visible damage, the problem is most likely a violation of the integrity of the gasket or a broken cartridge. In this case, complete disassembly of the kitchen single-lever mixer is required.

How to disassemble the tap? First, turn off the water and let the remaining water flow out of the tap. Then study the structure of the single-lever kitchen faucet in the photo.

Now let's start the repair step by step:

1. The screw on the main body is unscrewed. It is usually hidden behind a decorative plug that needs to be removed with a screwdriver, as shown in the photo.

Advice! You can disassemble and repair the device even if you don’t have a hex wrench at hand. To do this, carefully tap the fastening nut with a hammer on a screwdriver.

1. The lever and cap are removed, and now we need to remove the cartridge and inspect the entire device for defects. To do this, unscrew the cam washer using an adjustable wrench.

1. The disassembled faucet is inspected for defects: the gasket, the surface of the ball and the springs supporting the rubber seals in the holes are inspected. Loose springs and worn taps are replaced if necessary. At this stage, you need to clean all parts from accumulated water deposits.
2. Most often, a leak from a faucet occurs due to a blockage formed between the ball and the valve seats in the cartridge. In this case, you just need to change it. The whole difficulty of this task lies in the correct choice of cartridge, and repairing the faucet with your own hands is not at all difficult.

Advice! When going to a plumbing store to buy a new cartridge, take the old one with you so as not to make a mistake with the size, because the cartridges are not standardized - they are produced in a variety of diameters and materials.

We install the new cartridge so that its holes align with the holes inside the mixer body. Then screw the washer back on (first with your hands, then tightly, but not too tightly, with a wrench).

1. We check the quality of our work by running water. If it does not leak, then we proceed to install the cap, and then the lever - we tighten the screw in it and fasten the plug.

How to change the gasket in the mixer? This is also quite easy. You need to remove the old O-rings and replace them with new ones, to which we first apply a little plumbing grease.

Advice! For all rubbing parts of the product, non-toxic silicone-based lubricant should be used. This will double the service life of structural elements.

How to fix this type of faucet? It is necessary to disassemble and replace worn elements - the valve axle and/or gasket.

The sequence of work in this case will be as follows:

1. The water is completely shut off, after which the valve flywheel is moved to the operating position so that excess pressure does not act on the parts.
2. Next, you need to disassemble the structure - to do this, remove the decorative caps and remove the screw that secures the flywheel. To do this you will need a screwdriver. Next, the old crane axle box is replaced with a new one of a suitable size, and the structure is put back together.

1. If the gasket is worn out, it is simply removed and a new one, lubricated with plumbing grease, is installed in its place.

Often valve mixers need to be repaired because the seal has leaked. Then it needs to be disassembled using the same algorithm and the worn packing replaced.

Advice! Replacement of the packing is only necessary when the bushing is tightly tightened and there is still a leak. The following are used as packing (for old faucets):

• Rubber tube of appropriate dimensions;
• Burlap threads;
• Twine impregnated with drying oil.

If you see that the threads on the parts have worn out, then this indicates that it is time to update the plumbing.

Being able to repair your kitchen faucet yourself is a great way to save money. However, repairs cannot always completely restore the efficiency of the faucet, and it is often easier to simply replace the faucet in the kitchen.

Keep in mind that:

• The most durable structures are considered to be those made of heavy metals (brass);
• The lowest quality are Chinese or Turkish silumin products;
• The convenience of the single-lever device is obvious - it can be opened with one free hand. It is also easier to repair, since the design contains fewer spare parts.
• Faucet repairs can be prevented. Most often, the main cause of malfunctions is contaminants coming from the water main. Therefore, installing special coarse water filters will help you keep your faucet intact longer.

Repairing a kitchen faucet correctly - step-by-step instructions (photos, videos)

Simple and clear information about repairing faucets in the kitchen: what to do if the faucet is leaking, the pressure has become weak or the thread has worn out? How to properly disassemble and reassemble the mixer?

We repair a single-lever mixer ourselves

Single-lever faucets attract with their laconic design and ease of control of water flow. Turning on the water, changing its temperature and pressure - all this with one turn of the handle. These devices are reliable and have a long service life—some branded ones come with a 5-year warranty. However, repair of a single-lever faucet is periodically necessary.

Types of single-lever mixers and their design

Despite the external similarity, there are two types of rotary or single-lever faucets - with a cartridge (cartridge) and ball - with a ball inside. You can repair any of them, but to do this you must first disassemble them. And so that you can not only disassemble, but also assemble, it is advisable to become familiar with the internal structure of each.

The design may be different, the structure remains the same

Cartridge mixer: structure

Cartridge mixers are so named because their shut-off and control mechanism is hidden in a special cartridge flask. In more expensive faucet models, the cartridge body is made of ceramic, in cheaper ones - from plastic. The good thing about these models is that they are easy to repair, but it is not always easy to achieve the required pressure with them - you need tighter control of the handle. But changing the water temperature is very easy - with a slight movement of the hand.

The structure of a single-lever faucet with a cartridge is simple. If you go from top to bottom:

• Switch with fixing screw.
• Locking (clamping) nut.
• Cartridge. The water flows are mixed in it, and the same device shuts off the water.
• The mixer body, which has a “seat” for the cartridge.
• Fasteners, studs and gaskets to ensure tightness.
• Spout (gander). It can be a separate part - in rotary models for the kitchen or part of the body - for sinks in the bathroom.
• If the spout is separate, gaskets are also installed below and there is also part of the body.

What does a single lever mixer with cartridge consist of?

The cartridge itself contains several (usually 4) ceramic or metal disks of a special shape. A rod is welded to the upper disk. By changing the position of the rod, we change the position of the plates relative to each other, changing the amount of water passing through the holes in the plates.

In order for the faucet/mixer to work normally, the plates are ground very tightly. For this reason, cartridge single-lever faucets are very demanding on water quality. Foreign fragments getting between the plates causes the faucet to leak or stop working altogether. To avoid this, some manufacturers install filters on the incoming pipes. But, it is better to install filters on the water supply and get clean water that can be safely supplied to household appliances.

Single lever ball mixer

It got its name from the element in which the water is mixed - a ball with cavities. The ball is usually metal, hollow inside. Its outer part is polished to a shine. The ball has three holes - two for the entry of cold and hot water, one for the exit of already mixed water. A rod is attached to the ball, which fits into a cavity in the handle. This rod with a rigidly attached ball changes the temperature of the water and its pressure.

The structure of a single-lever mixer with a ball water mixing mechanism

It is easier to adjust the parameters with such a device - the parts are well lapped, the handle moves easily. Mixers with a ball mechanism are less critical to the presence of mechanical impurities, but do not respond very well to the presence of hardness salts and excess iron. So for normal operation, pre-filtration is required here too.

How to disassemble and repair a faucet with a cartridge

Repairing a single-lever cartridge faucet often involves reassembling and cleaning the O-rings. Salts are deposited on them, debris and dirt accumulate, which is why the faucet begins to leak. To eliminate this nuisance, the mixer is disassembled, all parts are wiped of dirt (with soapy warm water), rinsed, dried, and put back in place.

Sequence of installation of parts in a cartridge single-lever mixer

Let's figure out how to disassemble a faucet with a cartridge. First, turn off the water, and then the procedure is as follows:

• Remove the decorative plug located on the handle. Just pry it out with a screwdriver.
• The mounting screw is hidden behind it. We unscrew it with a hex key and take it out.

First, unscrew the fixing screw

That's all. The single lever mixer with cartridge was disassembled. As you can see, there are not many details. The main working part is the cartridge. It is in it, inside, that mixing occurs.

Replacing the cartridge

The cartridge itself has a sealing gasket - a rubber seat at the bottom, which ensures a tight fit to the body. Over time, the rubber loses its elasticity and water begins to leak out. If this is the problem, you can first try to clean this ring from the salts and deposits that have formed on it. Place the cleaned part in place and check the work. If the leak does not stop, you will have to replace the cartridge.

Cartridges for “one-arm” faucets

Cartridges for mixers have different diameters, and the inlets and outlets in the lower part are located differently. Therefore, if you need to replace it, first you disassemble the mixer, get the treasured part and go to the store or market with it. You must choose exactly the same model without any deviations. At home, install the cartridge into the housing, turn it slightly until you feel that it “sits” in place. Next is assembly, it goes in reverse order.

First install the clamp nut. Actually, at this stage you can check how the new cartridge works. Turn on the water, adjust the temperature and pressure with the stem. To make it more convenient, you can put a handle on the rod. If everything is fine, continue assembly.

We disassemble and repair a single-lever ball mixer

The single-lever ball mixer was invented a little over 40 years ago. Its design is simple and reliable - there is nothing to break. If problems arise, it is only due to poor quality water - dirt particles settle on the rubber saddles on which the ball rests. The contact deteriorates, water leaks out and the faucet begins to leak.

How to disassemble a single lever ball mixer

Some ball valves are also available with a cartridge. Only inside the cartridge there are not plates, but a ball. Disassembly of this type is no different from that described above. All the difference is hidden inside the flask. There are also other types of taps. In them, the locking ball is installed directly into the rubber seat. There are some minor differences here.

The faucet lever is removed in the same way - first remove the plug, then unscrew the screw with a hexagon. Pull the lever up and remove it. Afterwards the steps are very simple and

Repair of single lever mixer for bathroom, kitchen

Self-repair of a single-lever faucet in a bathroom or kitchen is possible. You just need to know how to take them apart. Description with photos and videos in the article.

Do-it-yourself single-lever kitchen faucet repair

Single-lever faucets have literally flooded the household plumbing market in recent years. And this is not strange, since these devices, despite their simple internal structure, have a high level of reliability, and their repair costs a penny. Why are lever mixers so common and how can you repair such a device yourself?

The best option for the kitchen and bathroom is an articulated faucet

There are quite a lot of different faucets on the modern plumbing market, which differ in both external and internal components. Some of them have built-in temperature sensors and electrical circuits, thanks to which you can set the water temperature as accurately as possible, others are extremely simple. The latter can easily include articulated cranes, which are extremely easy to install and maintain.

GROHE professional kitchen faucet

The main advantage of single-lever faucets is the absence of any metal elements inside the main device (cartridge). Instead, spare parts made of ceramics are installed. They do not corrode and are not afraid of direct exposure to water. The only thing that can lead to their premature destruction is low-quality and unfiltered water. Despite the fact that primitive filters are already installed in the cartridges located inside the mixer, in some regions of our country they are simply useless. Therefore, it is advisable to take care in advance of installing at least a local system of additional water filtration.

Another advantage of single lever faucets is their modern and minimalist design. Only the basic elements fall into a person’s field of vision, and the water supply and the main mechanisms are carefully hidden from outside views.

People choose these mixers not only because of their simplicity of design or external characteristics, but also because of their simple operation and cost-effectiveness. There is no need to adjust the optimal temperature every time; just move the lever to the desired position once.

Kitchen faucets BLANCO STEELART

Before moving on to the main causes of failure, you need to consider what a standard representative of single-lever mixers consists of:

• a lever designed to regulate and supply water;
• an adjusting rod on which the lever is attached directly;
• a housing, inside of which there is either a hinged valve or a plastic cartridge with ceramic filling;
• adjustment ring, steam and adjusting cuffs.

Main causes of failure

Since there are currently several types of single-lever faucets on the plumbing fixtures market, we will look at the most common types of breakdowns, as well as the reasons for their occurrence.

Main causes of failure:

1. The main water distributor in articulated mixers is a steel ball. Unfortunately, it can corrode over time. Various gaskets and seals also wear out, allowing water to pass through. To return the faucet to normal operating condition, it is necessary to replace worn parts.
2. If a ceramic cartridge is installed inside the faucet, the cause of the breakdown may be some small debris that got either through the plumbing system or during installation of the product. Despite this, products with a ceramic cartridge inside are considered the most reliable and, if installed correctly, can last a very long time.

Mixer repair: operating procedure

Before you begin repairing the faucet, you must turn off the water supply. After the water is turned off, open the tap and wait for the remainder to drain. Since all work will be carried out in close proximity to the surface of the sink, it is advisable to cover it with a cloth. It is enough to put an unnecessary rag in the place where the mixer is located.

The following procedure may vary slightly depending on the model and type of faucet used, but the general repair picture looks something like this:

1. First, we need to get rid of the special decorative plug that is located on the front of the mixer. It is an indicator of cold and hot water. Under the plug there is a fixing screw that needs to be unscrewed.
2. Removes the lever itself. There is no need to put in unnecessary effort, since faucets are most often made of cheap metal alloys and the structure can be easily damaged. If the lever does not budge, then you can pour hot water on it for a few minutes.
3. Under the lever there is a decorative dome, which also needs to be carefully removed.
4. Next, we must remove the clamping nut, which is responsible for ensuring that the structure is in place.
5. Depending on the type of mixer, there may be either a distribution ball and other elements of a hinged mixer inside, or a plastic cartridge with ceramic discs inside. In the first case, you need to make sure that the ball itself is intact, check the condition of the gaskets, seals and the spring that holds the valve in place. If necessary, we replace elements. If you have a cartridge installed, then carefully remove it and head to the nearest store, where we look for a replacement.
6. Leaks can also occur directly under the spout. In this case, it is necessary to replace the old seals.
7. Under the cartridge, as a rule, there are rubber seats, which become unusable over time. We wash away any remaining dirt and other debris that has entered during use.
8. If you replace a cartridge, before installing a new one, you must thoroughly clean the seat itself from corrosion and rust. During installation, make sure that the clamps fit exactly into the grooves, otherwise the mixer will not work properly.

If the repairs made did not bring a visible effect or only partially corrected the problem, then you need to find other possible causes of the problem. Let's look at other possible problems:

1. A clogged aerator causes the water pressure to be very different from that in the bathroom. To fix the problem, you need to remove this element and clean it thoroughly. If the cause of its malfunction is rust, then this element will have to be completely replaced.
2. A loud noise from the faucet when water is supplied may indicate that the gaskets are not the right size. This is especially true in cases where you cut them out yourself. In this case, we disassemble the mixer and cut off the gaskets.
3. The water pressure in the tap can also be significantly reduced due to blockages in the connecting flexible hoses or water pipes. After cleaning the mixer, replace the hoses with new ones, as deposits may form on the old ones, which will lead to repeated failure of the cartridge or hinge.
4. If the mixer is located in the bathroom and during the bathing process the water direction switching lever lowers on its own, then it is necessary to replace the gasket, which is hidden under the spool. There is no need to dismantle the mixer for this, just unscrew the nut and remove the hose itself, after which we change the gasket and return everything to its place.
5. It is much more difficult to replace the bottom gasket, since you not only need to disconnect the hose, but also remove the adapter along with the spout. Next, we completely remove the switch, eccentric and spool, after which we change the gasket and reassemble everything in the reverse order.

Repairing a single-lever faucet at home is inherently quite simple and does not require any special plumbing skills. The only thing you need to constantly remember is that such devices do not like abuse.

If you think about the ease of repair, then you need to think in advance what type of mixer you will install. This can be a product either on a hinged base or on cartridges. The former are less picky about water quality, while the latter can be repaired in a matter of minutes, since most faults directly affect the cartridge itself. The average cost of such a cartridge is 100–150 rubles, which is good news, although to choose the right model, you will have to take an old spare part with you. This is due to the fact that each manufacturer is trying in every possible way to improve their products and at the moment you can find dozens, or even hundreds of different models. Products from the Chinese manufacturer are especially distinguished by this craving for something new.

Do-it-yourself repair of a single-lever kitchen faucet

The main types and causes of breakdowns of single-lever mixers. Step-by-step text and video repair instructions

Nowadays it is difficult to imagine a kitchen sink without a convenient, modern faucet. This device allows you to adjust the temperature of the water in the tap to the desired value.
Although lever-type faucets are becoming popular, many people use wing-type faucets or handwheels, which have threaded faucet axle boxes and rubber round gaskets.

Such mixers are simpler in design than the first ones, which makes their repair and maintenance possible for an untrained person.
It is this kind of mixer that will be discussed in this article, namely, how to repair it.
There is probably no person who is not irritated by the constant dripping of water from the tap, and no matter how much he turns the valve, nothing changes.

In this state of affairs, replacing the crane axle box or rubber gasket cannot be avoided. And it’s absolutely possible to do it yourself, although you might think that you can’t do it without a specialist.

DIY kitchen faucet repair

So, you should start by removing the decorative plug. A small straight-tip screwdriver will help with this.
We insert the tip of the screwdriver between the flywheel housing and the plug.
We pry it up and remove it.

Under the decorative trim there is a screw for fastening the “wing” to the rotating rod of the crane axle box.
We unscrew this screw, first with a screwdriver, and when it loosens, you can use your hand.

Next, remove the plastic part of the flywheel housing and set it aside.

In addition to the screw, the flywheel is held in place by longitudinal slots or splines on it and on the head of the faucet box, mounted on top of each other. This prevents the flywheel from slipping or turning during rotation.

Over time, this connection can oxidize, and the two parts seem to “stick” to each other. Therefore, it is not always possible to separate them by hand.
In such cases, one or two screwdrivers will help, which can be used as a puller.

To do this, insert a screwdriver between the flywheel and the mixer body.

Next, we are slowly trying to separate them. If we see that one screwdriver does not give the desired result and the edges of the flywheel begin to break, we use two screwdrivers at the same time, only from different sides.
This will prevent the flywheel from skewing to one side, which will be more effective when removing old connections.
In our case, we got by with one screwdriver. The flywheel has “broken off” and further dismantling can be done with one hand.

Now, the handle has been safely removed, now all that remains is to unscrew the valve axle.

The 17 key will help with this.

It is possible that the size of the key may differ depending on the design of the mixer, but this is the key that is usually used.
We place the key on the body of the valve axle box and slowly unscrew it counterclockwise.

Usually, there should be no problems with removing this part.
Here is the photo of the removed part.

It can be seen that it has a slightly rusty coating. But it’s not scary, the part itself is made of brass, so you can simply wipe off the rust with a dry cloth.
In the next photo, the seat of the crane axle box. The plane in depth should be as flat as possible. The tightness of the gasket and, as a result, water constipation depends on this.

After removing the faucet box, it is advisable to clean this surface with at least your little finger, because pieces of the old gasket or flakes of rust may remain on it.
After cleaning, you need to turn on the water for a second so that its pressure washes this dirt out.
Now let's return to the crane box. If it is really bad, you can buy a new one, already with a gasket. But it will be cheaper to replace only the gasket.
Moreover, crane axle boxes made in the USSR may not be found. They are distinguished from more modern ones by different splines for the flywheel.

You will have to buy a set, a flywheel along with a crane axle box, but this will be a little more expensive and both valves will have to be replaced.
Therefore, replacing the gasket will be easier and cheaper.
To remove the gasket, you need to unscrew the screw that secures it. Regular pliers will help with this.

Separately, finding the gasket turned out to be problematic. In return, the sellers offered a set for different occasions. This set included five spacers in the correct size.

Moreover, the price of the entire set was less than 0.5 US dollars.
The remaining gaskets may also come in handy over time.
So, we remove one of the gaskets and try to insert it into the seat of the faucet axle box. This may seem tricky since the gasket initially looks larger than this area. But as soon as she comes in, everything will be as it should.

It is also very important to clean the screw hole in it. The fact is that this hole in the gasket is not quite ready. That is, there is a hole, but it is not through. It is slightly filled with rubber, which will not allow the fastening nut to be threaded through it.
Therefore, before installing the gasket, its internal hole must be milled using small scissors, for example.
Take one of their cutting parts and insert it into the gasket hole. Next, remove excess rubber using circular movements. But you have to be very careful not to make a cut inside the hole. This will destroy the gasket when it is clamped with the screw.
So, the hole is prepared, the gasket is inserted, now you can tighten it with a screw. This also needs to be done with feeling.

We tighten the valve axle box, first by hand, and then press it with a key, clockwise.

Single-lever faucets attract with their laconic design and ease of control of water flow. Turning on the water, changing its temperature and pressure - all this with one turn of the handle. These devices are reliable and have a long service life—some branded ones come with a 5-year warranty. However, repair of a single-lever faucet is periodically necessary.

Types of single-lever mixers and their design

Despite the external similarity, there are two types of rotary or single-lever faucets - with a cartridge (cartridge) and ball - with a ball inside. You can repair any of them, but to do this you must first disassemble them. And so that you can not only disassemble, but also assemble, it is advisable to become familiar with the internal structure of each.

The design may be different, the structure remains the same

Cartridge mixer: structure

Cartridge mixers are so named because their shut-off and control mechanism is hidden in a special cartridge flask. In more expensive faucet models, the cartridge body is made of ceramic, in cheaper ones - from plastic. The good thing about these models is that they are easy to repair, but it is not always easy to achieve the required pressure with them - you need tighter control of the handle. But changing the water temperature is very easy - with a slight movement of the hand.

The structure of a single-lever faucet with a cartridge is simple. If you go from top to bottom:

• Switch with fixing screw.
• Locking (clamping) nut.
• Cartridge. The water flows are mixed in it, and the same device shuts off the water.
• The mixer body, which has a “seat” for the cartridge.
• Fasteners, studs and gaskets to ensure tightness.
• Spout (gander). It can be a separate part - in rotary models for the kitchen or part of the body - for sinks in the bathroom.
• If the spout is separate, gaskets are also installed below and there is also part of the body.

The cartridge itself contains several (usually 4) ceramic or metal disks of a special shape. A rod is welded to the upper disk. By changing the position of the rod, we change the position of the plates relative to each other, changing the amount of water passing through the holes in the plates.

In order for the faucet/mixer to work normally, the plates are ground very tightly. For this reason, cartridge single-lever faucets are very demanding on water quality. Foreign fragments getting between the plates causes the faucet to leak or stop working altogether. To avoid this, some manufacturers install filters on the incoming pipes. But, it’s better to supply and get clean water, which can be safely supplied to household appliances.

Single lever ball mixer

It got its name from the element in which the water is mixed - a ball with cavities. The ball is usually metal, hollow inside. Its outer part is polished to a shine. The ball has three holes - two for the entry of cold and hot water, one for the exit of already mixed water. A rod is attached to the ball, which fits into a cavity in the handle. This rod with a rigidly attached ball changes the temperature of the water and its pressure.

It is easier to adjust the parameters with such a device - the parts are well lapped, the handle moves easily. Mixers with a ball mechanism are less critical to the presence of mechanical impurities, but do not respond very well to the presence of hardness salts and excess iron. So for normal operation, pre-filtration is required here too.

How to disassemble and repair a faucet with a cartridge

Repairing a single-lever cartridge faucet often involves reassembling and cleaning the O-rings. Salts are deposited on them, debris and dirt accumulate, which is why the faucet begins to leak. To eliminate this nuisance, the mixer is disassembled, all parts are wiped of dirt (with soapy warm water), rinsed, dried, and put back in place.

Let's figure out how to disassemble a faucet with a cartridge. First, turn off the water, and then the procedure is as follows:

That's all. The single lever mixer with cartridge was disassembled. As you can see, there are not many details. The main working part is the cartridge. It is in it, inside, that mixing occurs.

Replacing the cartridge

The cartridge itself has a sealing gasket - a rubber seat at the bottom, which ensures a tight fit to the body. Over time, the rubber loses its elasticity and water begins to leak out. If this is the problem, you can first try to clean this ring from the salts and deposits that have formed on it. Place the cleaned part in place and check the work. If the leak does not stop, you will have to replace the cartridge.

Cartridges for “one-arm” faucets

Cartridges for mixers have different diameters, and the inlets and outlets in the lower part are located differently. Therefore, if you need to replace it, first you disassemble the mixer, get the treasured part and go to the store or market with it. You must choose exactly the same model without any deviations. At home, install the cartridge into the housing, turn it slightly until you feel that it “sits” in place. Next is assembly, it goes in reverse order.

First install the clamp nut. Actually, at this stage you can check how the new cartridge works. Turn on the water, adjust the temperature and pressure with the stem. To make it more convenient, you can put a handle on the rod. If everything is fine, continue assembly.

We disassemble and repair a single-lever ball mixer

The single-lever ball mixer was invented a little over 40 years ago. Its design is simple and reliable - there is nothing to break. If problems arise, it is only due to poor quality water - dirt particles settle on the rubber saddles on which the ball rests. The contact deteriorates, water leaks out and the faucet begins to leak.

Some ball valves are also available with a cartridge. Only inside the cartridge there are not plates, but a ball. Disassembly of this type is no different from that described above. All the difference is hidden inside the flask. There are also other types of taps. In them, the locking ball is installed directly into the rubber seat. There are some minor differences here.

The faucet lever is removed in the same way - first remove the plug, then unscrew the screw with a hexagon. Pull the lever up and remove it. Afterwards the steps are very simple and similar to those described above:

• We unscrew the cap, preferably by hand, since it is usually made of thin metal and is easy to bend.
• We unscrew the clamping nut, there is a washer under it, remove it too.
• Access to the ball has opened. Pull the rod and take out the ball.
• Under the ball there are two saddles, with springs so that the elastic bands are pressed more tightly to the ball.

That's it, sorted it out. Next comes the repair of the single-lever mixer. In theory, the problem is that deposits have accumulated at the contact point between the ball and the seat. They need to be removed - carefully clean and wipe. There may be problems with the springs. Dirt sometimes accumulates on them too, but more often they simply lose their elasticity.

The third source of problems is the ball itself. In general, it should be made of stainless steel; accordingly, it only needs to be cleaned of deposits. In reality, this is not always the case - cheap faucets have appeared even with plastic balls or made of cheap metal. In this case, peeling of the surface or other similar troubles may occur. Such a locking element will no longer work normally. It needs to be replaced. You also go to the store with the ball and select a replacement of the appropriate size. Assembling the mixer in the reverse order: springs from the seat, the seat is out of place, there is a ball on it, etc. When assembling the entire structure, carefully center everything - misalignment will lead to rapid wear and the tap will leak again.

Repair of a single lever faucet with swivel spout

Faucets with a swivel spout are installed on sinks in the kitchen or bathroom. Periodically it starts leaking from under it. In this case, the locking mechanism is not to blame; it’s just that the gaskets have lost their elasticity or the lubricant has dried out.

In this case, disassemble the mixer as described above, then remove it by pulling the spout up. Remove all old gaskets. If they are stuck, you can use a flathead screwdriver or even a knife blade. You have to remove them, but they are still replaceable. Use the removed gaskets to select new ones. It is advisable that they be made of silicone, not rubber. Silicone is more elastic, retains its properties longer, and tolerates contact with water better.

Lubricate the new gaskets with plumbing silicone grease and install them in place. Reinstall the spout. It must be pressed down well so that it rests against the union nut on the mixer body. Next is the assembly of the rest of the mechanism.

Monotonously and inevitably, with the precision of a metronome, the slapping sounds are repeated, carrying brains and money straight down the drain. The reason is simple and banal - the faucet is dripping in the kitchen or bathroom.

The situation is simple and familiar to everyone; such breakdowns are far from uncommon and this situation is fraught with many troubles. Starting from the risk of flooding your neighbors from below to rising water bills.

Such phenomena can be avoided by constant monitoring of the operation and condition of plumbing equipment, as well as careful adherence to operating rules.

A kitchen faucet is not a very complex technical product, but it still functions under pressure. Despite the apparent simplicity of this mechanism, it needs increased attention.

Let's look at the reasons why it may drip from a kitchen faucet.

There can be several reasons for the formation of leaks:

• Incorrect use. Any equipment has certain operational characteristics. When providing a guarantee for their products, each manufacturer stipulates a number of restrictions, the violation of which leads to accelerated wear and tear. And often it is almost impossible to carry them out or control these parameters.
• Poor workmanship or poor quality materials. Often, when making a certain purchase, a person tries to choose an inexpensive product, trying to use financial resources economically. But often this turns into not just inconvenience, but a direct loss of money when forced to replace a defective product. Particularly unpleasant are cases when a breakdown occurs in the absence of people. When purchasing a faucet for your apartment, it is better to pay for the brand, because this concept also includes such an indicator as product quality. However, the low cost of a popular brand should alert you - most likely, this is a low-quality fake.
• Natural wear and tear associated with long-term use. The taps open and close many times during the day; its locking parts (gaskets, axle boxes, cartridges) work intensively and wear out quickly. Therefore, the best way to avoid leaks is timely forced replacement of quickly wearing components.
• One of the reasons for the breakdown may be poor build quality. The most common errors are misalignment of parts, destruction of seals due to too much tightening. Manufacturing defects cannot be ruled out, so a thorough inspection upon purchase is required.

What to do when the kitchen faucet is dripping?

First of all, you need to establish the reason why the faucet in the kitchen is dripping and decide on the possibility of eliminating it yourself. If the breakdown can be repaired yourself, then in this case you need to go to a plumbing store to purchase the necessary parts and start fixing the defect yourself.

Watch the video - the faucet is dripping in the kitchen, how to fix it yourself

Knowing how to repair a dripping faucet in the kitchen will allow you to have everything you need in stock and not have to race for little things.

How to fix a single lever kitchen faucet

Mechanisms of this type are most popular among consumers because they are quite reliable and simple in design. The regulating element is a non-separable cartridge.

The need for repairs occurs after the pressure of water flowing from the spout has decreased or a leak is observed when it is turned off. Why does the faucet drip when the water is turned off? This clearly indicates that the locking elements are worn out.

The diagram presented here can only be considered as a typical one; units of different brands may have quite significant differences. But what is common to all is the cartridge fixing nut, which is held in place by a functional lever.

The fastening is hidden by a decorative overlay on the body. You need to pry it off with a screwdriver and remove it, after which you can remove the cartridge and replace it with a new one.

If there is a leak between the faucet body and the sink, this indicates a defect in the sealing ring between them. Unscrew the housing, remove the ring and replace it with a new one.

Basically, that's all you need to know about how to fix a dripping single-lever faucet. But, given the differences in the designs of the models, you must first study the instructions attached to the specific product.

How to fix a ball mixer

Ball valve locking devices are the second most common after single-lever locking devices.

Considering the high wear resistance of ceramics, this design solution turned out to be very successful and is being successfully used. Well, if a ceramic faucet drips, then to repair it you need to change the inserts and shock absorber.

Watch the video - faucet repair or why it drips (flows) in the kitchen

Before you repair a two-valve dripping faucet, you need to turn off the water on the riser or on the corresponding branches of the cold and hot water collector. Further:

• It is necessary to remove the decorative trim on the handwheel by carefully prying it off with a narrow screwdriver.
• Unscrew the screw and remove the handwheel.
• Carefully loosen and remove the oil seal nut.
• Unscrew the rod with the rubber gasket.
• Clean the valve seat from dirt.
• Change the rubber gasket.
• Reassemble in reverse order, after which you can open the water.

Elimination of leaks that arose for other reasons

The main thing to do if your kitchen faucet is dripping is to correctly determine the cause of the leak. Knowing where the leak is coming from will greatly facilitate the repair work and, most likely, reduce the cost of it, since unreasonable disassembly of a plumbing fixture most often leads to damage to the seals.

Watch the video - how to fix a dripping faucet in the kitchen

Most often, the reason why the faucet tap drips is the following circumstances:

• leakage at the drainage point;
• unsatisfactory condition of the sealing gasket between the spout and the tap;
• violation of the tightness between the sink and the faucet;
• drips directly from the tap itself.

Water leaking from the valve usually indicates increased wear of the gaskets, which need to be replaced.

A leak can form at the point where the faucet fitting contour comes into contact with the plane of the sink. This can happen due to a careless sharp blow to the mixer body, which results in a crack in the gasket, especially if it is old.

If it drips at the spout, you need to pay attention to the condition of the taps and replace all seals. As a result of wear and aging of materials, sealing occurs.

Watch the video - how to fix the axle box on a mixer yourself

When a faucet leaks in the kitchen or bathroom, before fixing. Exceeding the pressure value above 4.5 atmospheres often causes leaks in taps.

Any repair must begin by turning off the water supply at the riser.

Selection and operation of a kitchen faucet

Breakdowns in the plumbing system occur with enviable regularity, and the reason for this may be the lack of proper regular maintenance. And above all, monitoring the operation of the water supply system is important.

The system operates stably only at stable pressure; sudden changes destroy it, and the sealing gaskets and threaded connections of locking devices are the first to suffer.

Watch the video - which faucet to choose for the kitchen

The initial quality of the tap is of great importance. First of all - the material of manufacture. A good faucet or mixer is made of heavy alloys - brass or bronze, they are easy and simple to fix. Materials such as silumin are absolutely unsuitable for plumbing, although they are often used by unscrupulous manufacturers.

Single-lever devices are convenient to use and can be operated with one hand. You should avoid purchasing products from manufacturers in China and Turkey - they traditionally do not differ in quality and durability and begin to leak immediately after installation.

The water supply system in an apartment or private house is a source of increased danger. Therefore, when operating it, it is necessary to adhere to certain rules to avoid problems. Let's list them:

1. Have the ability to quickly turn off water from the riser.
2. A set of tools for performing repair work should always be at hand.
3. It is necessary to keep in the house a set of replaceable components for faucets and mixers that are in use.
4. Be prepared to urgently call emergency water services in the event of a serious accident.
5. And, of course, you need to know the rules and procedures for independently eliminating an emergency situation.

In the kitchen, the faucet is used much more actively than in the bathroom, so it breaks down much more often. In rare cases, the only solution to the problem that has arisen is to buy a new device and invite a plumber; in other cases, you can handle it yourself. By deciding to repair a kitchen faucet yourself, you will save on the services of a specialist and gain important experience. You just need to arm yourself with theory and tools.

• Leakage from under the nut at the water outlet, from under the handle (lever) or mixer valves in working condition.
• The correct movement of the lever or valves is disrupted (they stick, turn, do not lock in the desired position, etc.).
• At normal water pressure in the system, the jet is not powerful enough.
• Water drips from a closed tap.

Please note: the detected problem must be resolved as quickly as possible! This will extend the service life of the mixer and protect yourself and your neighbors from flooding, saving money, time and nerves.

The problem that raises the most questions is a leaking faucet. And here you need to know the “enemy” not only by sight, but also from the inside. We are talking about the design of mixers.

Design features of the main types of kitchen faucets

Such delights as thermostatic and touchless faucets are good for bathrooms. In the kitchen, more practical models - traditional two-valve and single-lever - are fighting for a place in the sun. The common elements for them are: body, spout (spout), aerator, sealing gaskets. Otherwise they differ significantly.

Installation of two-valve taps

Faucets with two valves that are familiar to the eye are designed quite simply. Under the flywheel, which you turn when operating the structure, there is a crane-axlebox - its locking element. Below is the design of such a kitchen faucet in pictures.

Axleboxes in a two-valve mixer (sectional view)

In products where several revolutions of the flywheel are required to supply or shut off water, worm axle boxes are installed. Their work is based on rotational-translational movements. The more you unscrew the valve, the further the axle box gasket will move away from the so-called “saddle”. The consequence of this is the flow of water into the internal cavity of the mixer, and then into its spout (spout).

Worm worm valve axle box for mixer

In models where it is enough to make only half a revolution to supply water, axle boxes with ceramic plates are installed. When you open the tap, the holes in them coincide and water flows into the spout.

Crane axle boxes with ceramic plates

The cost of faucet axle boxes is low, they are always available in plumbing stores, and their replacement is extremely simple.

Design and types of single-lever mixers

More modern and practical are models of faucets with one handle (lever) that regulates pressure and temperature. Mixing water in them is carried out in a hollow ball with three holes or in a special cartridge.

The mixing element in ball models has three openings, two of which are inlets - designed to supply hot and cold water to this miniature container, and one outlet - for supplying water at a given temperature to the sink.

Ball mixer device

The ball itself is located on two rubber “saddles”. Its displacement relative to them, carried out when the lever moves, allows you to regulate the pressure and temperature of the water being poured out. The ball is secured at the top with a sealing collar and a lock nut.

Schematic structure of a ball model of a kitchen faucet

The operating principle of a mixer with a cartridge that replaces a ball is similar. At the same time, their internal structure is fundamentally different. There are still the same three functional holes, but inside the cartridge there is not a cavity, but special metal-ceramic disks. Due to their displacement relative to each other and the degree of overlap of the supply holes, when turning the lever, the water supply is adjusted.

Replaceable ceramic cartridges

The kitchen faucet is leaking - how to fix it yourself

To repair a kitchen faucet you will need:

• knife with a sharp end;
• hex and adjustable wrench;
• screwdrivers;
• a new cartridge, valve axle, rubber gasket, etc. - depends on which part you will change;
• WD40 is a technical aerosol that is useful if parts are “stuck” to each other. However, you can get by with the traditional tapping of a hammer on a screwdriver, but there is a high risk of damaging the mixer.

Regardless of which faucet you have installed, before starting repairs, you must turn off the water supply to the system and drain its remaining water into a sink or a separate container. To do this, just open the tap. Then you can begin to repair it, taking into account the design features.

To repair a single-lever faucet, you will need a hex wrench.

Single lever kitchen faucet repair

The main principles of repair are sequence of actions and accuracy.

1. Using a thin screwdriver or knife, pry and remove the decorative plug on the faucet body.
2. In the resulting hole you will see a screw connecting the lever and the adjusting rod. Unscrew it using a hex wrench.
3. Remove the lever from the body and unscrew the decorative casing. This can even be done by hand if the parts are not stuck to each other.

Removing the decorative casing

1. There will be a locking (clamping) nut underneath it. Gently unscrew it with an adjustable wrench or by tapping it with a hammer on a screwdriver.
2. If you disassemble the ball mixer, you will see a sealing collar under the nut. Inspect it for dirt, deformation and tears. Pull out the ball. Inspect its surface - it should be smooth and clean. It is necessary to remove the seals and support springs - their poor condition can cause the tap to leak.
3. If you are disassembling a faucet with a cartridge, remove it and thoroughly inspect it.
4. Replace the failed part.
5. Reassemble the faucet in reverse order.

It is important! Do not tighten the nuts too tightly, as this may lead to deformation of the rubber seals and disruption of the normal operation of the mixer.

Installing a new cartridge

To extend the service life of the product and ensure smooth running of its rubbing parts, you can use a special silicone lubricant.

Removing the mixer handwheel

Repair of a two-valve mixer

What to do if your two-valve faucet is dripping in your kitchen? Almost everything is the same.

• On the valve flywheel, pry up and remove the decorative plug.
• Using a screwdriver, unscrew the screw that secures the flywheel.
• Remove the flywheel. There will be a crane box in front of you.
• Unscrew it counterclockwise and inspect it.

Removing the crane axle box

• If it is a worm-type axlebox and its gasket is damaged, replace it separately - buy it in a store (costs pennies) or cut it yourself from rubber of a suitable thickness. The axle box with ceramic discs is replaced entirely.
• Reassemble the faucet in reverse order.

General scheme of mixer repair work

Everything is as simple as possible and slightly reminiscent of a construction set. But a leaking faucet is not the only problem you may encounter while using it in the kitchen.

Other faucet breakdowns and fault prevention

The quality of water in many cities leaves much to be desired, so over time the aerator in the tap can become dirty. On the inside, hard deposits “grow” on it. When there are too many of them, the pressure and quality of the water deteriorate significantly. The solution to the problem is to replace the aerator. Ideally, it can be easily unscrewed with an adjustable wrench, but for stuck parts you will need WD40 or tapping with a hammer.

It is important! Carry out all work carefully, otherwise the mixer will have to be replaced completely.

The faucet is leaking, and during the inspection you found a crack in it? Then it's time to go for a new product. For a short time, silicone sealant can be an assistant.

You can extend the life of the faucet if you install a water filter and use the device carefully, without tightening the valves too tightly or moving the lever suddenly and all the way.

Video: repair of a single-lever faucet with a ceramic cartridge

Now you know what to do if your kitchen faucet is dripping. In most cases, the repair schemes discussed are also suitable for eliminating breakdowns of faucets in bathrooms. This is a good saving for the family budget. But if you are not confident in your abilities or you simply don’t have time, a competent plumber will complete all the work in a matter of minutes.