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#1
Posted to uk.d-i-y
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
My son has a standard kitchen tap with separate hot and cold valves on
either side of the tap. I took a look at it today because it has developed a steady drip. The valves are ceramic disc with a quarter turn to full off/full on. I removed each 'cartridge' and took it apart. I could not see any problem at all with the ceramic discs they did not appear to be scratched or damaged, nor was there any grit present. The various seals were in good condition. After cleaning and rinsing all components, I put them all back together, replaced them in the tap and............. drip drip drip! Anyone any suggestions? -- Kev |
#2
Posted to uk.d-i-y
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
In message , Ret.
writes My son has a standard kitchen tap with separate hot and cold valves on either side of the tap. I took a look at it today because it has developed a steady drip. The valves are ceramic disc with a quarter turn to full off/full on. I removed each 'cartridge' and took it apart. I could not see any problem at all with the ceramic discs they did not appear to be scratched or damaged, nor was there any grit present. The various seals were in good condition. After cleaning and rinsing all components, I put them all back together, replaced them in the tap and............. drip drip drip! Anyone any suggestions? Yes. I had trouble with a mixer tap, like this: http://www.google.co.uk/products/cat...ceramic&hl=en& prmd=ivns&resnum=2&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.&um=1&ie= UTF-8&tbm=shop&cid=5156 296188300295797&sa=X&ei=AhrdTZajF9Kr8AOygLEB&ved=0 CGsQ8gIwAA&biw=1280&bih =835# Do you know which insert is the culprit? Hot or cold? If you can, try and work out which it is. [Possibly turn off the incoming cold water, turn cold tap on to drain residual water in pipes, then turn cold tap off?] #1: Remove and immerse the insert(s) in Killrock K for (say) half an hour (occasionally rotating the 'works'. This will get rid of any scale which is preventing a perfect seal. #2: Buy replacement inserts (if you can find correct type!). My tap responded to treatment for a few months, but started to drip again. Fortunately, Homebase (where I had originally bought the tap) had exactly the right replacement inserts - although I did have to file about 3mm off the end of the splined spindle. -- Ian |
#3
Posted to uk.d-i-y
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
Ian Jackson has brought this to us :
In message , Ret. writes My son has a standard kitchen tap with separate hot and cold valves on either side of the tap. I took a look at it today because it has developed a steady drip. The valves are ceramic disc with a quarter turn to full off/full on. I removed each 'cartridge' and took it apart. I could not see any problem at all with the ceramic discs they did not appear to be scratched or damaged, nor was there any grit present. The various seals were in good condition. After cleaning and rinsing all components, I put them all back together, replaced them in the tap and............. drip drip drip! Anyone any suggestions? Yes. I had trouble with a mixer tap, like this: http://www.google.co.uk/products/cat...ceramic&hl=en& prmd=ivns&resnum=2&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.&um=1&ie= UTF-8&tbm=shop&cid=5156 296188300295797&sa=X&ei=AhrdTZajF9Kr8AOygLEB&ved=0 CGsQ8gIwAA&biw=1280&bih =835# Do you know which insert is the culprit? Hot or cold? If you can, try and work out which it is. [Possibly turn off the incoming cold water, turn cold tap on to drain residual water in pipes, then turn cold tap off?] #1: Remove and immerse the insert(s) in Killrock K for (say) half an hour (occasionally rotating the 'works'. This will get rid of any scale which is preventing a perfect seal. #2: Buy replacement inserts (if you can find correct type!). My tap responded to treatment for a few months, but started to drip again. Fortunately, Homebase (where I had originally bought the tap) had exactly the right replacement inserts - although I did have to file about 3mm off the end of the splined spindle. We have now reverted back to normal washers, but the above was the cause/fix for ours when it dripped. I fixed then by simply scratching the disk free of scale with a thumb nail. -- Regards, Harry (M1BYT) (L) http://www.ukradioamateur.co.uk |
#4
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
Harry Bloomfield wrote:
Ian Jackson has brought this to us : In message , Ret. writes My son has a standard kitchen tap with separate hot and cold valves on either side of the tap. I took a look at it today because it has developed a steady drip. The valves are ceramic disc with a quarter turn to full off/full on. I removed each 'cartridge' and took it apart. I could not see any problem at all with the ceramic discs they did not appear to be scratched or damaged, nor was there any grit present. The various seals were in good condition. After cleaning and rinsing all components, I put them all back together, replaced them in the tap and............. drip drip drip! Anyone any suggestions? Yes. I had trouble with a mixer tap, like this: http://www.google.co.uk/products/cat...ceramic&hl=en& prmd=ivns&resnum=2&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.&um=1&ie= UTF-8&tbm=shop&cid=5156 296188300295797&sa=X&ei=AhrdTZajF9Kr8AOygLEB&ved=0 CGsQ8gIwAA&biw=1280&bih =835# Do you know which insert is the culprit? Hot or cold? If you can, try and work out which it is. [Possibly turn off the incoming cold water, turn cold tap on to drain residual water in pipes, then turn cold tap off?] #1: Remove and immerse the insert(s) in Killrock K for (say) half an hour (occasionally rotating the 'works'. This will get rid of any scale which is preventing a perfect seal. #2: Buy replacement inserts (if you can find correct type!). My tap responded to treatment for a few months, but started to drip again. Fortunately, Homebase (where I had originally bought the tap) had exactly the right replacement inserts - although I did have to file about 3mm off the end of the splined spindle. We have now reverted back to normal washers, but the above was the cause/fix for ours when it dripped. I fixed then by simply scratching the disk free of scale with a thumb nail. So far as I can see, there is no scale present at all. We live in mid Cheshire which is a very soft water area. I'm really baffled as to why the 'drip' is occurring. -- Kev |
#5
Posted to uk.d-i-y
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
"Ret." wrote:
My son has a standard kitchen tap with separate hot and cold valves on either side of the tap. I took a look at it today because it has developed a steady drip. The valves are ceramic disc with a quarter turn to full off/full on. I removed each 'cartridge' and took it apart. I could not see any problem at all with the ceramic discs they did not appear to be scratched or damaged, nor was there any grit present. The various seals were in good condition. After cleaning and rinsing all components, I put them all back together, replaced them in the tap and............. drip drip drip! Anyone any suggestions? -- Kev It is possible that the ceramic valves have worn out. I have had the same problem, fortunately I had kept the paperwork from when I installed the tap so was able to order replacement ceramic valves from the manufacturer. If you don't know the tap model and the manufacturer then you are stuffed because there is no such thing as standard replacement ceramic valves. The only solution is to replace the tap. If your son lives in a hard water area it might be worth soaking the valves in vinegar in case lime scale is the culprit, but that is probably clutching at straws. |
#6
Posted to uk.d-i-y
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
Ian Jackson wrote:
In message , Ret. writes My son has a standard kitchen tap with separate hot and cold valves on either side of the tap. I took a look at it today because it has developed a steady drip. The valves are ceramic disc with a quarter turn to full off/full on. I removed each 'cartridge' and took it apart. I could not see any problem at all with the ceramic discs they did not appear to be scratched or damaged, nor was there any grit present. The various seals were in good condition. After cleaning and rinsing all components, I put them all back together, replaced them in the tap and............. drip drip drip! Anyone any suggestions? Yes. I had trouble with a mixer tap, like this: http://www.google.co.uk/products/cat...ceramic&hl=en& prmd=ivns&resnum=2&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.&um=1&ie= UTF-8&tbm=shop&cid=5156 296188300295797&sa=X&ei=AhrdTZajF9Kr8AOygLEB&ved=0 CGsQ8gIwAA&biw=1280&bih =835# OK - the tap in question is more like this: http://www.taps.co.uk/contemporary-c...rm-sink-mixer/ but I suspect the 'cartridges' will be similar. Do you know which insert is the culprit? Hot or cold? If you can, try and work out which it is. [Possibly turn off the incoming cold water, turn cold tap on to drain residual water in pipes, then turn cold tap off?] Bit of a problem because my son has a combi - so turning off the water turns off both hot and cold! I have no idea which cartridge is causing the drip. #1: Remove and immerse the insert(s) in Killrock K for (say) half an hour (occasionally rotating the 'works'. This will get rid of any scale which is preventing a perfect seal. I can certainly try this - although we live in a very soft water area (mid Cheshire) and, so far as I can see, there is no scale present on either of the two discs in either of the cartridges. I have completely dissassembled both cartridges and all four ceramic disks appear perfect to the eye. #2: Buy replacement inserts (if you can find correct type!). I think this is what we will have to do - although it is annoying when you cannot see what is causing the problem! My tap responded to treatment for a few months, but started to drip again. Fortunately, Homebase (where I had originally bought the tap) had exactly the right replacement inserts - although I did have to file about 3mm off the end of the splined spindle. OK. I have B&Q and Plumbworld on the doorstep, and Homebase within 20 minute drive - so this will be the next step I think. -- Kev |
#7
Posted to uk.d-i-y
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
On Wed, 25 May 2011 17:41:49 +0100, "Ret."
wrote: I have completely dissassembled both cartridges and all four ceramic disks appear perfect to the eye. #2: Buy replacement inserts (if you can find correct type!). I think this is what we will have to do - although it is annoying when you cannot see what is causing the problem! I wonder if the discs have worn dished or domed. Not that the outcome is changed much either way. If you have the disks out you could try lapping them on a flat surface (Eg. A piece of glass) with jewellers rouge or toothpaste even. OK. I have B&Q and Plumbworld on the doorstep, and Homebase within 20 minute drive - so this will be the next step I think. Derek G |
#8
Posted to uk.d-i-y
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
DIY wrote:
"Ret." wrote: My son has a standard kitchen tap with separate hot and cold valves on either side of the tap. I took a look at it today because it has developed a steady drip. The valves are ceramic disc with a quarter turn to full off/full on. I removed each 'cartridge' and took it apart. I could not see any problem at all with the ceramic discs they did not appear to be scratched or damaged, nor was there any grit present. The various seals were in good condition. After cleaning and rinsing all components, I put them all back together, replaced them in the tap and............. drip drip drip! Anyone any suggestions? -- Kev It is possible that the ceramic valves have worn out. If my memory serves me correctly, the tap is no more than 6 or 7 years old - so the discs shouldn't have worn out in that time. I have had the same problem, fortunately I had kept the paperwork from when I installed the tap so was able to order replacement ceramic valves from the manufacturer. If you don't know the tap model and the manufacturer then you are stuffed because there is no such thing as standard replacement ceramic valves. The only solution is to replace the tap. If your son lives in a hard water area it might be worth soaking the valves in vinegar in case lime scale is the culprit, but that is probably clutching at straws. No hard water. I'll try and get replacement cartridges - but a new tap may be the only effective solution. -- Kev |
#9
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
Derek G. wrote:
On Wed, 25 May 2011 17:41:49 +0100, "Ret." wrote: I have completely dissassembled both cartridges and all four ceramic disks appear perfect to the eye. #2: Buy replacement inserts (if you can find correct type!). I think this is what we will have to do - although it is annoying when you cannot see what is causing the problem! I wonder if the discs have worn dished or domed. Not that the outcome is changed much either way. If you have the disks out you could try lapping them on a flat surface (Eg. A piece of glass) with jewellers rouge or toothpaste even. Good idea. I'll give that a try first. -- Kev |
#10
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
On Wed, 25 May 2011 17:38:54 +0100, DIY wrote:
If you don't know the tap model and the manufacturer then you are stuffed because there is no such thing as standard replacement ceramic valves. Maybe I was lucky when I need to replace the ceramic insert in our 20 (at the time) year old kitchen mixer tap... The only thing to be aware of is the "hand", they are available as clockwise = on or clockwise = off. Don't think I've ever seen a ceramic insert in the likes of B&Q, Homebase etc. I got mine froma builders/plumbers merchant. They had a box of them on the counter. -- Cheers Dave. |
#11
Posted to uk.d-i-y
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
In message , Ret.
writes So far as I can see, there is no scale present at all. We live in mid Cheshire which is a very soft water area. I'm really baffled as to why the 'drip' is occurring. Noted. I certainly know that the water in the Manchester area doesn't cause any scale, so it's unlikely that that is your problem. You could try the Kilrock treatment, but it might be easier to replace the insert(s) (if you can). Don't forget that, while the H & C inserts screw in the same ('normal') way, they turn in opposing directions. [NB: I think we established that, otherwise, the construction is the same and, if you prefer the handles to open in the opposite direction, you can simply swap the inserts over.] I live in the Chiltern water area, and the difference is (almost literally) chalk and cheese. The chalky water plays havoc with plumbing - and especially taps. -- Ian |
#12
Posted to uk.d-i-y
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
In message , Ret.
writes Derek G. wrote: On Wed, 25 May 2011 17:41:49 +0100, "Ret." wrote: I have completely dissassembled both cartridges and all four ceramic disks appear perfect to the eye. #2: Buy replacement inserts (if you can find correct type!). I think this is what we will have to do - although it is annoying when you cannot see what is causing the problem! I wonder if the discs have worn dished or domed. Not that the outcome is changed much either way. If you have the disks out you could try lapping them on a flat surface (Eg. A piece of glass) with jewellers rouge or toothpaste even. Good idea. I'll give that a try first. My inserts didn't have discs. The ceramic valve part was rather similar to a revolving door, and the seals were rubber (coded red for hot, and blue for cold, to indicate the direction of opening). -- Ian |
#13
Posted to uk.d-i-y
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
Ret. :
My son has a standard kitchen tap with separate hot and cold valves on either side of the tap. I took a look at it today because it has developed a steady drip. The valves are ceramic disc with a quarter turn to full off/full on. I removed each 'cartridge' and took it apart. I could not see any problem at all with the ceramic discs they did not appear to be scratched or damaged, nor was there any grit present. The various seals were in good condition. After cleaning and rinsing all components, I put them all back together, replaced them in the tap and............. drip drip drip! Anyone any suggestions? We also live in a very soft water area, where scale simply doesn't exist, and had the same problem after 14 years. The manufacturer supplied a replacement cartridge at a reasonable price. The only problem was that the new cartridge felt a lot stiffer than the old one, which wasn't a serious problem but it was an irritation. So I'd recommend getting two new cartridges to make sure they both need the same operating force. Also if one has reached the end of its life, the other might be getting near. And it saves you having to work out which one is dripping. :-) -- Mike Barnes |
#14
Posted to uk.d-i-y
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
On 25/05/2011 17:35, Ret. wrote:
Harry Bloomfield wrote: Ian Jackson has brought this to us : In message , Ret. writes My son has a standard kitchen tap with separate hot and cold valves on either side of the tap. I took a look at it today because it has developed a steady drip. The valves are ceramic disc with a quarter turn to full off/full on. I removed each 'cartridge' and took it apart. I could not see any problem at all with the ceramic discs they did not appear to be scratched or damaged, nor was there any grit present. The various seals were in good condition. After cleaning and rinsing all components, I put them all back together, replaced them in the tap and............. drip drip drip! Anyone any suggestions? Yes. I had trouble with a mixer tap, like this: http://www.google.co.uk/products/cat...ceramic&hl=en& prmd=ivns&resnum=2&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.&um=1&ie= UTF-8&tbm=shop&cid=5156 296188300295797&sa=X&ei=AhrdTZajF9Kr8AOygLEB&ved=0 CGsQ8gIwAA&biw=1280&bih =835# Do you know which insert is the culprit? Hot or cold? If you can, try and work out which it is. [Possibly turn off the incoming cold water, turn cold tap on to drain residual water in pipes, then turn cold tap off?] #1: Remove and immerse the insert(s) in Killrock K for (say) half an hour (occasionally rotating the 'works'. This will get rid of any scale which is preventing a perfect seal. #2: Buy replacement inserts (if you can find correct type!). My tap responded to treatment for a few months, but started to drip again. Fortunately, Homebase (where I had originally bought the tap) had exactly the right replacement inserts - although I did have to file about 3mm off the end of the splined spindle. We have now reverted back to normal washers, but the above was the cause/fix for ours when it dripped. I fixed then by simply scratching the disk free of scale with a thumb nail. So far as I can see, there is no scale present at all. We live in mid Cheshire which is a very soft water area. I'm really baffled as to why the 'drip' is occurring. Can you stop the dripping by turning the tap a bit more? I ask as our kitchen tap has a similar problem, but it seems to turn off fine, but then, if you've been running hot water, things cool and contract and it starts to drip and will stop with a bit more of a turn. A design fault or a faulty insert? SteveW |
#15
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
Ian Jackson wrote:
In message , Ret. writes So far as I can see, there is no scale present at all. We live in mid Cheshire which is a very soft water area. I'm really baffled as to why the 'drip' is occurring. Noted. I certainly know that the water in the Manchester area doesn't cause any scale, so it's unlikely that that is your problem. You could try the Kilrock treatment, but it might be easier to replace the insert(s) (if you can). I'm going to try 'lapping' the discs on glass first. If that doesn't work then I'll hunt for new cartridges. Don't forget that, while the H & C inserts screw in the same ('normal') way, they turn in opposing directions. [NB: I think we established that, otherwise, the construction is the same and, if you prefer the handles to open in the opposite direction, you can simply swap the inserts over.] LOL! I discovered this after reassembling the cartridges, replacing them in the tap, turning the tap handles off, and getting my son to turn on the water. Although the cold tap was in the 'closed' position - it was actually fully open - and I got drenched with the splash back! I had to remove the cartridge again, dissassemble it again, and rotate the disc with the holes through 45 deg. to re-establish shut off when the tap handle was in the closed position! I live in the Chiltern water area, and the difference is (almost literally) chalk and cheese. The chalky water plays havoc with plumbing - and especially taps. Yes - I lived in Sussex for a few years and it was like that down there as well. Kettles required 'de-furring' quite frequently and it was hard to get a lather in the shower! -- Kev |
#16
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
Ian Jackson wrote:
In message , Ret. writes Derek G. wrote: On Wed, 25 May 2011 17:41:49 +0100, "Ret." wrote: I have completely dissassembled both cartridges and all four ceramic disks appear perfect to the eye. #2: Buy replacement inserts (if you can find correct type!). I think this is what we will have to do - although it is annoying when you cannot see what is causing the problem! I wonder if the discs have worn dished or domed. Not that the outcome is changed much either way. If you have the disks out you could try lapping them on a flat surface (Eg. A piece of glass) with jewellers rouge or toothpaste even. Good idea. I'll give that a try first. My inserts didn't have discs. The ceramic valve part was rather similar to a revolving door, and the seals were rubber (coded red for hot, and blue for cold, to indicate the direction of opening). The seals on my sons are similarly colour coded - and the discs are as you describe with 'triangular' holes cut in them that align/unalign, as the spindle is turned. They are about the size of a 5p piece. If I remove the coloured 'bungs' from the bottom of the cartridge, then the innards, including the two ceramic discs, just drop out. They don't appear to be damaged in any way. -- Kev -- Kev |
#17
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
Mike Barnes wrote:
Ret. : My son has a standard kitchen tap with separate hot and cold valves on either side of the tap. I took a look at it today because it has developed a steady drip. The valves are ceramic disc with a quarter turn to full off/full on. I removed each 'cartridge' and took it apart. I could not see any problem at all with the ceramic discs they did not appear to be scratched or damaged, nor was there any grit present. The various seals were in good condition. After cleaning and rinsing all components, I put them all back together, replaced them in the tap and............. drip drip drip! Anyone any suggestions? We also live in a very soft water area, where scale simply doesn't exist, and had the same problem after 14 years. The manufacturer supplied a replacement cartridge at a reasonable price. The only problem was that the new cartridge felt a lot stiffer than the old one, which wasn't a serious problem but it was an irritation. So I'd recommend getting two new cartridges to make sure they both need the same operating force. Also if one has reached the end of its life, the other might be getting near. And it saves you having to work out which one is dripping. :-) Good points. -- Kev |
#18
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
Dave Liquorice wrote:
On Wed, 25 May 2011 17:38:54 +0100, DIY wrote: If you don't know the tap model and the manufacturer then you are stuffed because there is no such thing as standard replacement ceramic valves. Maybe I was lucky when I need to replace the ceramic insert in our 20 (at the time) year old kitchen mixer tap... The only thing to be aware of is the "hand", they are available as clockwise = on or clockwise = off. Don't think I've ever seen a ceramic insert in the likes of B&Q, Homebase etc. I got mine froma builders/plumbers merchant. They had a box of them on the counter. Are you referring to the entire ceramic 'cartridge' - or just the ceramic discs themselves? It never really crossed my mind that I would be able to buy the latter separately. -- Kev |
#19
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
On 25/05/2011 17:41, Ret. wrote:
Ian Jackson wrote: In message , Ret. writes My son has a standard kitchen tap with separate hot and cold valves on either side of the tap. I took a look at it today because it has developed a steady drip. The valves are ceramic disc with a quarter turn to full off/full on. I removed each 'cartridge' and took it apart. I could not see any problem at all with the ceramic discs they did not appear to be scratched or damaged, nor was there any grit present. The various seals were in good condition. After cleaning and rinsing all components, I put them all back together, replaced them in the tap and............. drip drip drip! Anyone any suggestions? Yes. I had trouble with a mixer tap, like this: http://www.google.co.uk/products/cat...ceramic&hl=en& prmd=ivns&resnum=2&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.&um=1&ie= UTF-8&tbm=shop&cid=5156 296188300295797&sa=X&ei=AhrdTZajF9Kr8AOygLEB&ved=0 CGsQ8gIwAA&biw=1280&bih =835# OK - the tap in question is more like this: http://www.taps.co.uk/contemporary-c...rm-sink-mixer/ but I suspect the 'cartridges' will be similar. Do you know which insert is the culprit? Hot or cold? If you can, try and work out which it is. [Possibly turn off the incoming cold water, turn cold tap on to drain residual water in pipes, then turn cold tap off?] Bit of a problem because my son has a combi - so turning off the water turns off both hot and cold! I have no idea which cartridge is causing the drip. #1: Remove and immerse the insert(s) in Killrock K for (say) half an hour (occasionally rotating the 'works'. This will get rid of any scale which is preventing a perfect seal. I can certainly try this - although we live in a very soft water area (mid Cheshire) and, so far as I can see, there is no scale present on either of the two discs in either of the cartridges. I have completely dissassembled both cartridges and all four ceramic disks appear perfect to the eye. #2: Buy replacement inserts (if you can find correct type!). I think this is what we will have to do - although it is annoying when you cannot see what is causing the problem! My tap responded to treatment for a few months, but started to drip again. Fortunately, Homebase (where I had originally bought the tap) had exactly the right replacement inserts - although I did have to file about 3mm off the end of the splined spindle. OK. I have B&Q and Plumbworld on the doorstep, and Homebase within 20 minute drive - so this will be the next step I think. Ceramic disc taps are the spawn of Satan. They don't last anything like as long as they are supposed to. You would be better off phoning a few independent plumbing supply places to find one who carries a selection, then take the old cartridge + tap top & screw to make sure you get the right one. You are looking at around £20 a pair. -- Dave - The Medway Handyman www.medwayhandyman.co.uk |
#20
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
On 25/05/2011 17:38, DIY wrote:
"Ret." wrote: My son has a standard kitchen tap with separate hot and cold valves on either side of the tap. I took a look at it today because it has developed a steady drip. The valves are ceramic disc with a quarter turn to full off/full on. I removed each 'cartridge' and took it apart. I could not see any problem at all with the ceramic discs they did not appear to be scratched or damaged, nor was there any grit present. The various seals were in good condition. After cleaning and rinsing all components, I put them all back together, replaced them in the tap and............. drip drip drip! Anyone any suggestions? -- Kev It is possible that the ceramic valves have worn out. I have had the same problem, fortunately I had kept the paperwork from when I installed the tap so was able to order replacement ceramic valves from the manufacturer. If you don't know the tap model and the manufacturer then you are stuffed because there is no such thing as standard replacement ceramic valves. True, but some plumbers merchants carry a selection. Not common granted, there is only 1 in the Medway Towns. -- Dave - The Medway Handyman www.medwayhandyman.co.uk |
#21
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
"Ret." wrote:
If my memory serves me correctly, the tap is no more than 6 or 7 years old - so the discs shouldn't have worn out in that time. Believe me, they often wear out sooner than that. |
#22
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
On Wed, 25 May 2011 19:51:22 +0100, Ret. wrote:
Don't think I've ever seen a ceramic insert in the likes of B&Q, Homebase etc. I got mine froma builders/plumbers merchant. They had a box of them on the counter. Are you referring to the entire ceramic 'cartridge' - or just the ceramic discs themselves? Whole kit and caboodle. What pushes the discs together? There didn't seem any (simple/obvious) way of taking the one I had a part to get at the discs, otherwise I would have... May still have it my "scrap brass" box. -- Cheers Dave. |
#23
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
On Wed, 25 May 2011 19:14:41 +0100, Ian Jackson wrote:
(coded red for hot, and blue for cold, to indicate the direction of opening). Is the colour the only diference? What happens if you want the hot on opposite side of the tap but still turning the "correct" way say top away = off. Does this open "the hot is always on the left" debate? -- Cheers Dave. |
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
In message o.uk, Dave
Liquorice writes On Wed, 25 May 2011 19:14:41 +0100, Ian Jackson wrote: (coded red for hot, and blue for cold, to indicate the direction of opening). Is the colour the only diference? What happens if you want the hot on opposite side of the tap but still turning the "correct" way say top away = off. Does this open "the hot is always on the left" debate? Some time ago, 'expert opinion' in this NG decided that the colours of the inserts only served to identify hot and cold (hence which side each went, hence the direction of turn). The convention is indeed 'hot on the left', and when the taps 'on', the levers are parked folded back (ie the levers are pointing left and right in opposite directions). However, several contributors were of the opinion that they preferred 'the opposite', so that the water was 'on' with the lever pointing towards you, and 'off' when folded back. Whether which side is hot and cold depends on which pipes are connected from beneath. Swapping the inserts simply determines which way the lever turns to turn the water on and off. Of course, you will need to fit the levers on the splines so that they point in the right directions (eg towards you when 'on', and outwards when 'off'). Obviously, you fit the lever with the red top on the hot tap, and the blue on the cold - regardless of which way you have made them turn. -- Ian |
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
Ret. wrote:
My son has a standard kitchen tap with separate hot and cold valves on either side of the tap. I took a look at it today because it has developed a steady drip. The valves are ceramic disc with a quarter turn to full off/full on. I removed each 'cartridge' and took it apart. I could not see any problem at all with the ceramic discs they did not appear to be scratched or damaged, nor was there any grit present. The various seals were in good condition. After cleaning and rinsing all components, I put them all back together, replaced them in the tap and............. drip drip drip! Anyone any suggestions? Try this, press down quite hard on the top of the tap when its off Still dripping ? if not dismantle and ask yourself what keeps the two discs pressed together. - |
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
Ret. wrote:
OK. I have B&Q and Plumbworld on the doorstep, I took a ceramic cartridge to Plumbcentre (or Plumbbase or whatever) to find a matching replacement and they looked at is as if I'd presented them with a stick of roobarb in a sweater. -- Scott Where are we going and why am I in this handbasket? |
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
Ret. explained on 25/05/2011 :
Harry Bloomfield wrote: Ian Jackson has brought this to us : In message , Ret. writes My son has a standard kitchen tap with separate hot and cold valves on either side of the tap. I took a look at it today because it has developed a steady drip. The valves are ceramic disc with a quarter turn to full off/full on. I removed each 'cartridge' and took it apart. I could not see any problem at all with the ceramic discs they did not appear to be scratched or damaged, nor was there any grit present. The various seals were in good condition. After cleaning and rinsing all components, I put them all back together, replaced them in the tap and............. drip drip drip! Anyone any suggestions? Yes. I had trouble with a mixer tap, like this: http://www.google.co.uk/products/cat...ceramic&hl=en& prmd=ivns&resnum=2&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.&um=1&ie= UTF-8&tbm=shop&cid=5156 296188300295797&sa=X&ei=AhrdTZajF9Kr8AOygLEB&ved=0 CGsQ8gIwAA&biw=1280&bih =835# Do you know which insert is the culprit? Hot or cold? If you can, try and work out which it is. [Possibly turn off the incoming cold water, turn cold tap on to drain residual water in pipes, then turn cold tap off?] #1: Remove and immerse the insert(s) in Killrock K for (say) half an hour (occasionally rotating the 'works'. This will get rid of any scale which is preventing a perfect seal. #2: Buy replacement inserts (if you can find correct type!). My tap responded to treatment for a few months, but started to drip again. Fortunately, Homebase (where I had originally bought the tap) had exactly the right replacement inserts - although I did have to file about 3mm off the end of the splined spindle. We have now reverted back to normal washers, but the above was the cause/fix for ours when it dripped. I fixed then by simply scratching the disk free of scale with a thumb nail. So far as I can see, there is no scale present at all. We live in mid Cheshire which is a very soft water area. I'm really baffled as to why the 'drip' is occurring. We too live a very soft water area, but none the less they scaled up. The first time I stripped them down I didn't see it, reassembled, found they still dripped so tried again. It seems to just need a very thin film to allow the water through. -- Regards, Harry (M1BYT) (L) http://www.ukradioamateur.co.uk |
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
On Wed, 25 May 2011 19:51:41 +0100, The Medway Handyman wrote:
Ceramic disc taps are the spawn of Satan. They don't last anything like as long as they are supposed to. No Dave, they're "maintainance-free", i.e. replace entire tap when a problem occurs. I deliberately avoid the things in this plac, as the pressure's high and a quarter turn of a proper tap is adequate - half a turn is messy. -- Peter. The gods will stay away whilst religions hold sway |
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
Dave Liquorice pretended :
What pushes the discs together? There didn't seem any (simple/obvious) way of taking the one I had a part to get at the discs, otherwise I would have... May still have it my "scrap brass" box. I think they rely on the water pressure provide the full seal. As I remember I had to hook the disks out, they were quite a good fit. -- Regards, Harry (M1BYT) (L) http://www.ukradioamateur.co.uk |
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
On 25/05/2011 20:05, DIY wrote:
"Ret." wrote: If my memory serves me correctly, the tap is no more than 6 or 7 years old - so the discs shouldn't have worn out in that time. Believe me, they often wear out sooner than that. Seconded. -- Dave - The Medway Handyman www.medwayhandyman.co.uk |
#31
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
Harry Bloomfield wrote:
Ret. explained on 25/05/2011 : Harry Bloomfield wrote: Ian Jackson has brought this to us : In message , Ret. writes My son has a standard kitchen tap with separate hot and cold valves on either side of the tap. I took a look at it today because it has developed a steady drip. The valves are ceramic disc with a quarter turn to full off/full on. I removed each 'cartridge' and took it apart. I could not see any problem at all with the ceramic discs they did not appear to be scratched or damaged, nor was there any grit present. The various seals were in good condition. After cleaning and rinsing all components, I put them all back together, replaced them in the tap and............. drip drip drip! Anyone any suggestions? Yes. I had trouble with a mixer tap, like this: http://www.google.co.uk/products/cat...ceramic&hl=en& prmd=ivns&resnum=2&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.&um=1&ie= UTF-8&tbm=shop&cid=5156 296188300295797&sa=X&ei=AhrdTZajF9Kr8AOygLEB&ved=0 CGsQ8gIwAA&biw=1280&bih =835# Do you know which insert is the culprit? Hot or cold? If you can, try and work out which it is. [Possibly turn off the incoming cold water, turn cold tap on to drain residual water in pipes, then turn cold tap off?] #1: Remove and immerse the insert(s) in Killrock K for (say) half an hour (occasionally rotating the 'works'. This will get rid of any scale which is preventing a perfect seal. #2: Buy replacement inserts (if you can find correct type!). My tap responded to treatment for a few months, but started to drip again. Fortunately, Homebase (where I had originally bought the tap) had exactly the right replacement inserts - although I did have to file about 3mm off the end of the splined spindle. We have now reverted back to normal washers, but the above was the cause/fix for ours when it dripped. I fixed then by simply scratching the disk free of scale with a thumb nail. So far as I can see, there is no scale present at all. We live in mid Cheshire which is a very soft water area. I'm really baffled as to why the 'drip' is occurring. We too live a very soft water area, but none the less they scaled up. The first time I stripped them down I didn't see it, reassembled, found they still dripped so tried again. It seems to just need a very thin film to allow the water through. OK - I'll double check on that Harry. -- Kev |
#32
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
The Medway Handyman wrote:
On 25/05/2011 17:41, Ret. wrote: Ian Jackson wrote: In message , Ret. writes My son has a standard kitchen tap with separate hot and cold valves on either side of the tap. I took a look at it today because it has developed a steady drip. The valves are ceramic disc with a quarter turn to full off/full on. I removed each 'cartridge' and took it apart. I could not see any problem at all with the ceramic discs they did not appear to be scratched or damaged, nor was there any grit present. The various seals were in good condition. After cleaning and rinsing all components, I put them all back together, replaced them in the tap and............. drip drip drip! Anyone any suggestions? Yes. I had trouble with a mixer tap, like this: http://www.google.co.uk/products/cat...ceramic&hl=en& prmd=ivns&resnum=2&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.&um=1&ie= UTF-8&tbm=shop&cid=5156 296188300295797&sa=X&ei=AhrdTZajF9Kr8AOygLEB&ved=0 CGsQ8gIwAA&biw=1280&bih =835# OK - the tap in question is more like this: http://www.taps.co.uk/contemporary-c...rm-sink-mixer/ but I suspect the 'cartridges' will be similar. Do you know which insert is the culprit? Hot or cold? If you can, try and work out which it is. [Possibly turn off the incoming cold water, turn cold tap on to drain residual water in pipes, then turn cold tap off?] Bit of a problem because my son has a combi - so turning off the water turns off both hot and cold! I have no idea which cartridge is causing the drip. #1: Remove and immerse the insert(s) in Killrock K for (say) half an hour (occasionally rotating the 'works'. This will get rid of any scale which is preventing a perfect seal. I can certainly try this - although we live in a very soft water area (mid Cheshire) and, so far as I can see, there is no scale present on either of the two discs in either of the cartridges. I have completely dissassembled both cartridges and all four ceramic disks appear perfect to the eye. #2: Buy replacement inserts (if you can find correct type!). I think this is what we will have to do - although it is annoying when you cannot see what is causing the problem! My tap responded to treatment for a few months, but started to drip again. Fortunately, Homebase (where I had originally bought the tap) had exactly the right replacement inserts - although I did have to file about 3mm off the end of the splined spindle. OK. I have B&Q and Plumbworld on the doorstep, and Homebase within 20 minute drive - so this will be the next step I think. Ceramic disc taps are the spawn of Satan. They don't last anything like as long as they are supposed to. You would be better off phoning a few independent plumbing supply places to find one who carries a selection, then take the old cartridge + tap top & screw to make sure you get the right one. You are looking at around £20 a pair. Yes - and it is possible to get a brand new modern kitchen tap for £24.95 ! http://www.tapcentre.com/en/kitchen-...itchen-tap.php -- Kev |
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
In message , Ret.
writes Yes - and it is possible to get a brand new modern kitchen tap for £24.95 ! http://www.tapcentre.com/en/kitchen-...-taps/portabel lo-kitchen-tap.php That's a fantastic collection of extremely ugly-looking taps! -- Ian |
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
Scott M wrote:
Ret. wrote: OK. I have B&Q and Plumbworld on the doorstep, I took a ceramic cartridge to Plumbcentre (or Plumbbase or whatever) to find a matching replacement and they looked at is as if I'd presented them with a stick of roobarb in a sweater. Better cross them off my list then! -- Kev |
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
Huge wrote:
On 2011-05-25, The Medway Handyman wrote: On 25/05/2011 20:05, DIY wrote: "Ret." wrote: If my memory serves me correctly, the tap is no more than 6 or 7 years old - so the discs shouldn't have worn out in that time. Believe me, they often wear out sooner than that. Seconded. Thirded. I've gone back to "proper" taps with washers. OK! -- Kev |
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
Dave Liquorice wrote:
On Wed, 25 May 2011 19:51:22 +0100, Ret. wrote: Don't think I've ever seen a ceramic insert in the likes of B&Q, Homebase etc. I got mine froma builders/plumbers merchant. They had a box of them on the counter. Are you referring to the entire ceramic 'cartridge' - or just the ceramic discs themselves? Whole kit and caboodle. What pushes the discs together? There didn't seem any (simple/obvious) way of taking the one I had a part to get at the discs, otherwise I would have... May still have it my "scrap brass" box. On the ones in my son's tap, there is a coloured rubber washer in the bottom of the cartridge - and it stands proud of the bottom of the cartridge. This is resting on a copper disk which also has a rubber seal which presses against the ceramic discs. When the cartridge is screwed into the tap, the rubber washer in the bottom of the cartridge is pushed in - and that leads to the ceramic discs being pressed together. -- Kev |
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
Mark wrote:
Ret. wrote: My son has a standard kitchen tap with separate hot and cold valves on either side of the tap. I took a look at it today because it has developed a steady drip. The valves are ceramic disc with a quarter turn to full off/full on. I removed each 'cartridge' and took it apart. I could not see any problem at all with the ceramic discs they did not appear to be scratched or damaged, nor was there any grit present. The various seals were in good condition. After cleaning and rinsing all components, I put them all back together, replaced them in the tap and............. drip drip drip! Anyone any suggestions? Try this, press down quite hard on the top of the tap when its off Still dripping ? if not dismantle and ask yourself what keeps the two discs pressed together. I can see what presses the two discs together (explained in another of my posts on the thread). It may be possible, thinking about it, to add a shim to increase the pressure on the disks. Good thinking! -- Kev |
#38
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
On Wed, 25 May 2011 20:05:50 +0100, "DIY" wrote:
"Ret." wrote: If my memory serves me correctly, the tap is no more than 6 or 7 years old - so the discs shouldn't have worn out in that time. Believe me, they often wear out sooner than that. looks for lucky rabbits foot I've a ceramic disc mixer that was in the kitchen for a few years then moved to the utility room and eventually into the garage where its been for the past few months. It was originally fitted in mid 1986, and while the white enamel has nearly all come off and the O rings on the spout pivot are no doubt knackered, it's never been touched internally. At the time I fitted it the key thing I was told by an 'expert' was that plumbing debris and water supply debris rapidly kills them. Careful flushing and fitting reduces the impact of any plumbing debris so they should last 'forever' unless the water board have been out stirring **** up in the pipes. -- |
#39
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
"Ret." wrote in message ... Mark wrote: Ret. wrote: My son has a standard kitchen tap with separate hot and cold valves on either side of the tap. I took a look at it today because it has developed a steady drip. The valves are ceramic disc with a quarter turn to full off/full on. I removed each 'cartridge' and took it apart. I could not see any problem at all with the ceramic discs they did not appear to be scratched or damaged, nor was there any grit present. The various seals were in good condition. After cleaning and rinsing all components, I put them all back together, replaced them in the tap and............. drip drip drip! Anyone any suggestions? Try this, press down quite hard on the top of the tap when its off Still dripping ? if not dismantle and ask yourself what keeps the two discs pressed together. I can see what presses the two discs together (explained in another of my posts on the thread). It may be possible, thinking about it, to add a shim to increase the pressure on the disks. Good thinking! -- Kev I couldn't find a local plumbers merchant that had a clue about replacement inserts. In the end I went to "www.shop.lunns.net" and found the correct one straight away. I was amazed at just how many different styles there are! Lawrence |
#40
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Dripping ceramic disc taps.
Lawrence wrote:
"Ret." wrote in message ... Mark wrote: Ret. wrote: My son has a standard kitchen tap with separate hot and cold valves on either side of the tap. I took a look at it today because it has developed a steady drip. The valves are ceramic disc with a quarter turn to full off/full on. I removed each 'cartridge' and took it apart. I could not see any problem at all with the ceramic discs they did not appear to be scratched or damaged, nor was there any grit present. The various seals were in good condition. After cleaning and rinsing all components, I put them all back together, replaced them in the tap and............. drip drip drip! Anyone any suggestions? Try this, press down quite hard on the top of the tap when its off Still dripping ? if not dismantle and ask yourself what keeps the two discs pressed together. I can see what presses the two discs together (explained in another of my posts on the thread). It may be possible, thinking about it, to add a shim to increase the pressure on the disks. Good thinking! -- Kev I couldn't find a local plumbers merchant that had a clue about replacement inserts. In the end I went to "www.shop.lunns.net" and found the correct one straight away. I was amazed at just how many different styles there are! I wonder if they'd give me a discount? -- Kev (Lunn) !! |
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