Do-it-yourself single-lever faucet repair: step-by-step instructions

Causes of mixer failures

To start repairing the mixer, you need to know the frequent problems and malfunctions of mixers that may occur during operation.

The second reason may be that the production uses old-style materials, for example, if you use rubber for a gasket, then such a gasket will last less than silicone. The important point is that the silicone gasket is less deformed and does not collapse from drying out.

The most common cause in our time can be called hard and dirty water that goes through pipes.Such water forms deposits in mixers and contributes to the destruction of seals and other parts of the device. Also, this reason contributes to the corrosion of metals.

These were the reasons for the breakdowns of the mixers, and now we need to sort out the specific malfunctions that may occur.

Mixer failures are not uncommon, because:

• the quality of water supplied to residential premises from the general water supply system is quite low. The water may also contain some impurities that adversely affect the internal structure of the mixer;
• the use of low-quality consumables: gaskets or rings, clamping nuts, and so on, which also leads to rapid wear and, accordingly, the formation of leaks;

• low quality of the mixer itself. Often, the cheapest models with a small amount of functionality are installed in the bathroom, which leads to a decrease in the service life;
• incorrect installation of the device;
• factory marriage, leading to the formation of cracks on the body of sanitary equipment.

To reduce the frequency of repairs, it is recommended to purchase faucets from reliable manufacturers such as GROHE, JACOB DELAFON, ROCA, LEMARK or WasserKRAFT.

Prevention

Not always after the mixer is repaired, its operation will return to normal. It may also happen that after the repair the question arises of replacing the entire device. In order for the device to function as long as possible, you need to follow simple rules:

1. Install a water filter and remove salt impurities. So it will be possible to get rid of debris and impurities that are found in all our plumbing systems. This will allow you not to think about replacing the device for a long time.
2. Do not save and buy a quality mixer. Brass is considered the best material, silumin is the worst. It is often used by manufacturers from China and Turkey.
3. Opt for a mixer with one lever. This is a better and more comfortable design.
4. When cleaning the product, use compositions that have the consistency of a cream or gel. It is necessary to exclude various brushes or alkali-based substances.
5. Wipe down the faucet after each use to avoid leaving traces of detergents on it.
6. Every three years, carry out a scheduled replacement of gaskets. These expenses are disproportionately lower than the replacement of the entire device.
7. Do not press with all your might on the valves when you need to open or close the tap.

Armed with the knowledge of what to do when a leak is detected in the mixer, you can always fix it yourself. The above procedure will help out in many situations, even if the faucet is in the bathroom and not in the kitchen. Before proceeding with the repair, determine the cause of the malfunction, and when buying a new device, do not be fooled by the low cost. It is better to pay more, but to operate longer.

Crane boxes

Differences

To understand how to change the faucet box in the mixer, or even better, repair it, you need to understand what it consists of and how it works, that is, how the water flow is regulated with its help.

The entire repair kit is divided into movable and fixed parts, where the first includes a retaining ring or bracket, a rod with a fork, a silencer and an upper ceramic plate with a hole. The fixed parts include the case itself, the bottom ceramic plate with a hole and the rubber ring for sealing. (See also the article Flexible faucet hoses: features.)

You have probably already noticed that the holes in the ceramics are not located in the center and it is this factor that allows you to regulate the flow of water. That is, when the holes match, a full passage opens, but when the top plate rotates around its axis, the holes gradually shift relative to each other, which reduces the passage until it is completely closed. The rubber seal does not allow water to break through to the sides, but it flattens over time and then the question arises of how to change the bushing tap in the mixer

The rubber seal does not allow water to break through to the sides, but it flattens over time and then the question arises of how to change the axle box faucet in the mixer.

In the case when, when closing and opening the valve, you need to make many turns (from 5 to 10), then this indicates that there is a shut-off valve with a worm gear. Despite the fact that the replacement of the crane box in this type of mixer is almost the same as the ceramic version, however, its device is somewhat different.

In this case, the rod serves as a piston that is raised and lowered using a worm gear, but in order to prevent water from flowing through this assembly, there is a fat chamber.

Occasionally, the reason for the failure of such a mechanism is the wear of the “worm” thread, but in most cases, this is the wear of the rubber gasket on the piston, so replacing the faucet box in the mixer is not needed here - just change the gasket (valve).

Repair work

We first need to remove the valve, how to unscrew the crane box on the mixer is possible only after its dismantling (it interferes).To do this, pry off a decorative plug in the center of the lamb with a knife or screwdriver and remove it, under the bottom there is a bolt that needs to be unscrewed and then we will remove the valve

If you have handles, then such a bolt is usually located under the lever on the handle body (it is also closed with a plug).

Now we need to remove the locknut by turning it counterclockwise, but this must be done carefully so as not to scratch the body. Often, there may be another, decorative nut above the locknut, which in most cases can be unscrewed by hand. Now you can simply pull out the stop valves, but sometimes there is still a retaining ring for additional fastening - dismantle it, since it will be possible to remove the bushing valve from the mixer only after that.

Now you can simply pull out the stop valves, but sometimes there is still a retaining ring for additional fastening - dismantle it, since it will be possible to remove the bushing valve from the mixer only after that.

Now you can just go to the store with the locking mechanism removed and buy the same one, fortunately, its price is low, but you can save yourself from buying if you disassemble and repair it. To do this, remove the retaining ring from the stem and squeeze the ceramic pair with the gasket out of the body with its rod. If there is plaque on the body, then you will need to hit the end of the rod with a screwdriver or pliers.

• In order to eliminate the leak, we need to increase the thickness of the flattened ring, but since this is not possible, we will simply increase the length of the inner box set.To do this, look at the photo above - there you can see where to stick two or three layers of electrical tape to increase the thickness of the upper ceramic plate. In addition, a home-made washer made of copper wire can be substituted under the rubber sealing ring, as if increasing the thickness of the gasket. (See also the article How to choose a sink: features.)
• Replacing the rubber valve in a crane box with a worm gear will not cause any problems at all. To do this, unscrew the bolt with a washer and change the valve (you can even make it homemade, made of thick rubber).

Step by step instructions for repair:

1. Remove the plug that covers the fixing screw.
2. There will be a screw in the hole that opens up, which you need to carefully loosen with a screwdriver.
3. Then remove the handle.
4. Unscrew the decorative cap, this can be easily done by hand.
5. You will see a locking clamp nut. It must be unscrewed with a wrench of a suitable size, and removed.
6. There you will see the treasured cartridge. It can also be taken by hand. Replace it with a new one.
7. That's all. Now everything needs to be done in reverse order. If you had a leak near the very base of the device, then you need to disassemble the mixer even further, carefully remove everything that will be found next, mainly various rings, and reach the treasured rubber seals. They will have to be replaced. You can also replace all the rings, they are inexpensive.

The device of single-lever mixers

Single-lever faucets are a relatively young development in the field of plumbing that has gained trust and popularity among consumers. Such cranes are also called "one-handed" or "single-grip". In operation, they are very simple: the temperature and water pressure are controlled with one hand.Understanding the features of the mixer device will help you easily cope with its disassembly and repair. Elements of a single-lever mixer:

• control lever (handle);
• jet regulator (spout);
• frame;

Single lever mixer device

• retainer (fastening);
• ceramic cartridge or ball mechanism;
• silicone or rubber gaskets;
• circular nut;
• flexible hoses for water supply.

According to the internal arrangement, single-lever mixers can be:

1. Ball. The device of ball lever mixers implies the presence in the design of a hollow steel ball with three holes - a mixing chamber. Two holes accept hot and cold water, which is mixed inside. Third - gives out already warm water. The handle drives the ball. By moving, the ball allows you to adjust the temperature of the water and the pressure of the jet.
2. Cartridge. The device of cartridge mixers is similar to that described above. Instead of a metal ball, ceramic cartridges are used here. Repair of such a mechanism is impossible, only a complete replacement of the cartridge. To prevent damage to the element, it is recommended to install special filters on the water supply to the mixer.

We repair a faucet with 2 valves

You can disassemble the structure in this way:

As with repairing a single-lever faucet, it is important to turn off the water.
Remove the plug from the valve that covers the screw.
Remove the first flywheel. Carry out diagnostics, perhaps both of these elements need repair.
A nut is visible under the valve, which holds the crane box
We use the wrench to spin the mechanism.
After gaining access to the crane box, you can remove this part, visually assess the condition.
Pay attention to the seal

If there are scratches, damage, the gasket may be deformed, be sure to replace the consumable.

After inspection, diagnosis and replacement of broken components, all parts are assembled in the reverse order.

ADVICE. In plumbing, it is important not to overtighten the threaded connections, but they should not “walk” at the same time

Prevention

It is not always possible to get rid of problems with the mixer with the help of repair work. Buy more often new faucet and install to replace the one that has fallen into disrepair. To extend the life of the crane without breakdowns, it is recommended to choose a product from manufacturers with a good reputation. In addition, you need to regularly carry out damage prevention.

When buying a mixer, it is better to choose a brass model. They are heavier and stronger than sulimine ones. In addition, they are more reliable and last longer. Most faucet failures are due to solid particles in the plumbing and poor quality water. You can prevent them by installing filters.

Before disassembling the mixer yourself, you need to carefully study the instructions for it. Additionally, it is recommended to watch a video on how to do this, or consult with an experienced plumber.

When connecting parts for greater reliability, sealant must be used. If there is a thread, fom tape is used to strengthen it. So that the breakdown is not unexpected, the mixers are regularly inspected and the seals are changed.

Crane repair or replacement

The crane box is the main locking mechanism of the mixer. Repair or replacement of the crane box is necessary when one of the two following "symptoms" appears:

1. When the mixer leaks, in the closed state;
2. When the mixer valve is opened, the appearance of extraneous sounds - growling, whistling, etc.

Crane boxes are divided into two types of device: with a worm mechanism or disk version. The sequence of actions depends on the type of this mechanism when repairing or replacing a crane box.

A feature of the worm-drive crane-box is a retractable stem with a rubber cuff, due to which, in 2-4 turns, the water supply is completely blocked. The reason for the popularity of mechanisms of this design is the low price and ease of use. But, behind these visible advantages, there is a significant drawback - a short service life.

Worm gear devices

If even small chips and cracks are found in the saddle of the structure, the device with a worm gear must be replaced immediately.

The sequence of actions when replacing the crane box:

1. Using a thin screwdriver, remove the top cap from the flywheel.
2. To remove the mixer valve, unscrew the bolt located under the cap.
3. With some effort, unscrew the valve. We clean the inner surface of the flywheel and the thread from debris accumulated in the cavity.
4. Then, we unscrew the crane fittings using sliding pliers. By these actions, we open free access to the core installed in the mixers.
5. We extract, carefully, the crane box.
6. After extraction, to ensure a tight entry of the new axle box, carefully clean the mixing thread.
7. Further, in place of the extracted mechanism, making sure that the design is completely identical, we screw in a new crane box.

The assembly of the mixer is carried out in the reverse, sequential order.

To prevent damage to the glossy surface of the faucet, I recommend using a dense piece of fabric as a gasket between the tool and the structure.

When using an inexpensive mixer model, even at the initial stage of installation, it is necessary to check and make sure that there is enough lubricant. If required, lubricate the seals with silicone grease or other identical waterproof material.

Crane boxes of disk type

The main node of the crane box is disk type, made of ceramics - these are two plates pressed tightly, with symmetrical holes. The principle of operation of this mechanism is simple: when the faucet handle is turned, the plates are displaced, tightly blocking the flow of tap water.

Crane boxes of disk type

Ceramic faucet boxes have a reputation for plumbing design, with a long service life, but capricious, with a stream of poor-quality, dirty water. If foreign, small objects get between the plates, the mixer mechanism quickly fails.

It is also worth noting that it will not work to repair, if the integrity of the ceramic inserts that control water is violated. Only a complete replacement of the old core with a new one will help you eliminate problems with the faucet.

Dismantling the crane box of a disk-type design is almost identical to similar actions with a worm-type mechanism. To disassemble the locking structure, five main actions are used:

1. Remove, with a screwdriver, the top cover of the valve.
2. Loosen the flywheel fixing screw.
3. They take it off.
4. Remove the upper part of the crane box from the saddle.
5. Further, in order to gain access to the ceramic discs, the upper and lower parts of the structure are separated.

During the installation of a new core, it is imperative to monitor the degree of tension.To ensure tight screwing and pressing of the locking element into the mixers, it is necessary to install a lock nut.

To prevent breakage of the disk-type core, I recommend installing coarse filters when water enters the tap. They will save ceramic elements from the negative effects of water debris.

Operation problems

Even high-quality plumbing fixtures fail over time. The service life of the faucet depends on the material from which it is made, the quality of tap water and the intensity of use. The most common problems that arise when operating single-lever models are:

1. Cracks on the body of the device. They arise due to the poor quality of the material and installation errors.
2. Clogged aerator. The reason for this malfunction is the poor quality of tap water.
3. Wear of rubber pads. Seals are consumables, they wear out over time due to the high intensity of use of the device.

Faucet repair photo

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What symptoms will tell you that the problem is in the mixer:

1. Is there a constant puddle coming out from under the sink? Feel the siphon, if it is dry, then most likely the solution lies in the water supply. Feel the hoses where they connect to the pipes and at the entrance to the device itself. Close the tap, wait until all the water is gone, wipe all the details of the sink with a dry cloth and then you can see by eye where the water is flowing. If you see problems when combining an elastic hose with an old steel pipe, the problem occurs most often there, try tightening the nut (photo 6), if this does not help, then turn off the water, drill a bucket, unscrew the nut and study the pipe itself. Look at the integrity of the thread. If it is damaged, then you will need an extension adapter whose end fits perfectly on the hose gasket. You wind the adapter to the pipe, and only then the hose is put on the adapter itself. As an option, remove the gasket between the mixer and the sink.
2. Drips from the spout even when the faucet is turned off? The problem is in the seal or ceramic parts of the valve body.
3. A puddle of water near the faucet body? Causes: cracks in the body or wear of the sealing rings in the swivel block. Cracks in the hull. If the lever is functioning normally, but there is water near the faucet, then try looking for cracks. If you still notice something, immediately change the mixer, it can no longer be helped.
4. Water flowing from under the lever? This is most likely an insufficient tightening of the threaded nuts, wear of the glands, failure of the cartridge. If it takes effort to change the position of the lever, or vice versa, it is too easy, and the water temperature changes little, no matter how you turn the lever, most likely the problem is in ceramic cartridges. The best option is to replace them with new ones.

The principle of operation and the device of the crane

The faucet with ball mixer has a clean and modern look, which allows it to organically complement any kitchen or bathroom interior.

But its main advantage is comfortable use. Indeed, unlike the valve design, in order to adjust the pressure and temperature of the water flow, you do not need to turn the knobs in search of the “golden mean”, but simply set the switch in the optimal position and put it into operation with one movement of the hand.

The ball mixer is very easy to operate: the water temperature is adjusted by moving the lever to the right / left, and the pressure - up / down

The design of a typical ball valve consists of the following mandatory elements:

• The control lever is a rotary knob that sets the flow force and water temperature.It is attached to the body with a screw closed with a decorative cap, on which the designations of cold and hot water are indicated in color or letters.
• A metal cap that secures the valve mechanism to the body.
• "Cam" - a plastic part with a figured washer, which ensures the movement of the "ball" in a certain range. The washer itself has a domed shape and is equipped with rubber seals.
• The mixing chamber is a steel hollow "ball" fixed with a system of saddle valves and springs. It has several openings: two for hot and cold water inlet and one for the outlet of the mixed flow through the faucet spout. In some designs, the "ball" is enclosed in a special protective capsule - a cartridge.
• Metal body with spout.
• Circular nut fixing the body on the sink.

The system is operated by a lever. When it is lifted, the “ball” inside the faucet begins to rotate, and when the holes are aligned with similar recesses in the saddles, water is supplied to the spout. Depending on how complete this coincidence was, the pressure and temperature of the flow are regulated.

A ball mixer is easy to repair - all consumables can be found on sale, but in order not to make a mistake with the size, do not throw out the failed spare part, but take it with you to the store.

In more detail - about the troubles that happen with a plumbing fixture, and how to eliminate them.

How to fix a faucet

If you need to repair faucets, then you first need to find out the source of the leak. There are several options:

• Water drips or leaks from under the valve that turns on the water supply.
• Water flows in a thin stream from the spout even when the valve is closed.
• Water is visible at the junction of the faucet and spout.
• There is a noticeable damage in the faucet body from which water drips.
• Water flows where the faucet is attached to the water pipes or fixed to the sink.

To fix the faucet after determining the location of the leak, you must first turn off the water. And this applies to cold and hot water supply. Then you can start repairing. Some masters suggest in this case to completely replace the mixer, but you can do without it.

To properly repair a faucet, the type of leak should be considered. As a rule, water begins to ooze from under the valve due to improper fit of the faucet box. It could also be the wear of the gaskets.

Therefore, it is necessary to make sure that there is no gap between the mixer and the crane box. For preventive purposes, gaskets are replaced. If you used a ceramic bushing, then you should take care of sealing the silicone gland.

If the leak comes from the spout, then this indicates the worn edges of the crane box. Such a breakdown applies only to cheap low-quality mixers. To eliminate the defect, it is necessary to replace the crane box and valve. If this does not help, you will have to install a new mixer.

If water is noticeable at the point of attachment to the spout, then the gaskets need to be changed. Also, the reason may be the unwinding of the element due to long-term operation or damage.

Water may leak at the pipe attachment point due to improper installation.This usually happens when the master makes significant efforts while tightening the nuts.

Also, a similar problem can occur due to poor-quality hoses, so you need to replace them. Experts recommend replacing rubber gaskets at the same time.

During repairs, make sure that the mixer is tightly screwed on. If it is loose, you will have to replace the gasket. If desired, the tap is planted on silicone, as a result of which there will definitely be no leaks.

What to do if water flows from the faucet body

If such a problem is found, repairing a faucet in the kitchen is much more complicated, because you first have to remove the case.

1. Water must be shut off with a common valve.
2. After that, the hoses are unscrewed and fastened to the sink.
3. Then you need to unscrew the retaining ring with your hands and remove the gander.
4. Next, the sealing rings are replaced. They must be tightly planted in the appropriate grooves.
5. After that, return the gander to its place and fix the retaining ring.
6. It is necessary to connect the hose without placing the housing on the sink. If everything works correctly, and the water does not flow, then you can fix the equipment on the sink.

1 Sensor, lever or valves - how can I turn on the water in the mixer?

Depending on the principle of operation, all modern mixers are divided into three main categories: touch, lever and valve. Valve devices are the most popular, which can be found in almost any bathroom in an apartment. The design is represented by two valves or taps responsible for the pressure of hot and cold water. The basis of such mixers are rotary cores, called crane boxes.

Recently, lever mixers have become popular.

Lever mixers are gradually conquering the market, due to the convenience and ease of use of the device. Indeed, in this case there is only one lever, whose tasks include the choice of hot or cold water, as well as the flow pressure. The operation of such mixers is based on the action of the cartridge. The core in the faucet must fit perfectly in order to be able to rotate not only in a horizontal position, but also vertically.

As practice shows, residents in private houses and apartments most often face the following problems:

• Faucet water leaking
• Weak water jet
• Water leaks from shower and gander at the same time
• Button mechanism not working
• Malfunctions in the system for switching the mode from gander to shower.

However, the mixer is not the only mechanism in the shower stall that becomes unusable. The water switch between the shower and the gander also breaks quite often. This is due to the fact that the same circuit is used in the switch that is used in the valve mixer, that is, the crane box, which tends to fail. The passage of water into the gander or shower hose is carried out using an eccentric, which drives a spool equipped with two gaskets.

If a push button switch is installed in the shower, then an o-ring is used here, which will need to be replaced in case of leakage. Due to the fact that the switch device is completely similar in essence to a valve valve, its repair is carried out in approximately the same order.

Types of bathroom faucets

There are several types of bath faucets: lever and two-valve, sensory, thermostatic.

Lever and two-valve

Single-lever faucets have only one rotary handle-lever. It provides the desired temperature and water pressure with one touch.

The switching mechanism is ball and cartridge. The body is cast or swivel. The disadvantage of the product is the fragility of parts subjected to constant friction.

Two-valve faucets are simple, have separate valves for hot and cold water. Managed manually. Older and cheaper models use rubber gaskets, new ones use ceramic plates.

Touch

The control element of these products is a photocell, which gives a command for the contactless supply of water from the tap or its shutdown. These mixers are the most durable.

thermostatic

The set water temperature is maintained regardless of the pressure. Water faucets with a thermostat are convenient, safe and comfortable. The valve in the device reacts to changes in the water flow and stabilizes them.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

The presented video shows how to repair the most common breakdowns of a shower faucet:

The causes of breakdowns of faucets with a shower can be very diverse. In some cases, they are easy to fix on your own using common tools. In other situations, you have to resort to the help of plumbers.

Unfortunately, sometimes the crane cannot be repaired and has to be replaced.

To prevent this from happening, it is important to take preventive measures, and when buying plumbing, choose modern models of well-known companies.

Tell us about how you repaired a faucet with a shower hose with your own hands.Share the technological nuances you know that will be useful to site visitors. Please leave comments in the block below, post photos and ask questions on the topic of the article.