Tap Cartridges

Tap cartridges are items that we rarely think about and yet they can cause a large amount of trouble if they wear out and fail to work properly. Leaking faucets are one of the most common indicators that there is a problem with these items in your home but the good news is that they are easy to replace. The entire replacement process will only take about 15 minutes if you know what you are doing.

How to Spot Faulty Tap Cartridges

If you have a tap leaking in your home then you will need to check the cartridge to see whether it is the cartridge that is causing the problem or another component of the system. Leaky faucets could be due to faulty rubber seals or pipes but you can spot the problem by taking the system apart and inspecting every piece for a fault.

Removing the Leaky Faucet

In order to access the inner components of the faucet, you will need to remove it. You will need to switch off the water at the main water supply and ensure that you stop up the plug (in case you drop a screw down the drain). Once the water has been turned off you can then remove the faucet and begin inspecting the inner components.

Inspecting the Rubber Seal

Rubber seals are usually placed around tap cartridges, at the base of the pipe and you will need to inspect these to ensure that they are still in working condition. If there is a tear, you might simply need to replace this item in order to stop the leak. If the seal is in working condition then you can move on to the other components of the system.

Cleaning out the System

A dirty system will not work well and this is why you need to ensure that you clean every part of the faucet, the seals and the cartridges. You can clean the pipes out with a toothbrush and wipe down the cartridge with a damp cloth. If the faucet is still leaking once you have taken these steps then you will most probably need to replace it.

Purchasing Tap Cartridges

When purchasing tap cartridges, you will need to ensure that you buy the right one or it will not fit into your system. You can ensure that you have the right one by bringing the old one along with you to the hardware store. The staff will usually be able to show you where you can find the same cartridge.

When replacing an old cartridge with a new one, you might want to consider high quality items, even though they are more expensive. If you are constantly replacing these items due to leaky faucets then you might be able to replace them with high quality items that will last for many years to come. Speak to a professional and ask for advice on the best items to purchase and where you will be able to find them at greatly reduced costs.