Do-it-yourself faucet repair - examples of some common breakdowns and their repair

Typical malfunctions and methods for their elimination

According to the principle of operation, all mixers are divided into the following types:

valve devices. The basis of the mixer are two taps designed to supply cold and hot water. Such devices are considered the most common and most reliable;

The most popular type of faucets with two valves

single-lever. At the heart of the device is a rotary lever, which regulates both the amount of cold or hot water supply and the total pressure of the liquid. Single-lever mixers are more whimsical to water quality, therefore, when choosing such a device, it is recommended installation of additional filters;

Device with one control lever

sensory. Relatively new type of mixer. The device is turned on thanks to the installed photocell, which reacts to the presentation of hands.

Automatic plumbing device with sensor

Touch-type faucets cannot be repaired at home.

Faucet mixer repair

The most frequent breakdowns of the faucet mixer in the bathroom are:

1. Faucet leak. The causes of the malfunction may be the natural wear of the gasket or damage to the crane box. Repair of a ball valve is carried out according to the following scheme:
   • shut off the water supply to the plumbing device;
   • remove the decorative cap (plug) from the leaking faucet, which is most often simply inserted into the groove;
   • unscrew the screw located under the plug;
   • unscrew the crane box (use an adjustable wrench or wrench of the appropriate size);
   • replace the gasket or crane box (in the presence of visible damage to this device);
   • reassemble in reverse order.

Repair sequence

1. Shower diverter leak. The reasons are also natural wear and tear or poor quality water. Repair of this malfunction is carried out in the following order:
   • the water supply to the mixer is blocked;
   • the decorative cap and switch are removed;
   • with the help of an adjustable (wrench) wrench, the shower nut is unscrewed;
   • the gasket is replaced and reassembled in reverse order.

Shower diverter gasket replacement technology

1. Leakage at the connection point of the shower hose, shower head or gander. Repairs should be made in the following order:
   • the nut fixing the hose is unscrewed (a shower head or a gander, respectively);
   • the gasket is replaced and the mixer assembly is assembled.

In some models of mixers, in addition to replacing the gasket, additional sealing of the thread with FUM tape or other similar materials is required.

Fixing a leak at a shower hose connection

Single Lever Faucet Repair

Typical breakdowns of a single-lever mixer are eliminated in the following ways:

1. Reducing the pressure of the crane jet. The cause of the malfunction is a clogged aerator. To clean the aerator, you must:
   • remove the device, which, as a rule, is fastened with a threaded method;
   • rinse the strainer under the pressure of water or air;
   • install the aerator in its original place.

Faucet aerator cleaning

1. Control lever leak. The cause of the malfunction is a problem in the operation of the cartridge - a special device in which hot and cold water is mixed. You won’t be able to repair the cartridge yourself, but you can replace the device yourself to fix the leak. The work is done in the following order:
   • the decorative cap is removed from the switch housing;
   • the screw fixing the lever is loosened;
   • the lever body and the decorative element located under it are removed;
   • using an adjustable (wrench) wrench, the cartridge is removed;
   • a new device is installed and assembled in the reverse order.

It is recommended to select a new cartridge based on the device that has become unusable, that is, after removing the old cartridge.

Scheme for disassembling a single-lever faucet to replace the cartridge

1. Leaks at the points of connection of the shower hose, shower head and faucet goose are eliminated according to the scheme of valve faucets.

Troubleshooting methods single-lever mixer are presented in the video.

If you can’t cope with the malfunction of the mixer on your own, then you will need the help of a professional plumber.

Varieties of cartridges for faucets

Cartridges are classified according to the device and principle of operation. According to the device, there are such varieties:

1. Ball. Equipped with a ball with one or two holes. During operation, due to such a locking mechanism, the pressure and temperature of the water are controlled. When the lever is moved, the ball closes one or both holes from the pipes of cold and hot water, due to which mixing occurs;

   What ball cartridges look like

2. Disk. They act similarly to ball ones, but here a special disk is installed instead of a ball. If ball valves can only be installed in single-lever mixers, then disc mixers are also suitable for two-valve options.

   How a disc cartridge works

According to the material used, they are:

1. metal;
2. Ceramic.

   Ceramic cartridge for GROHE faucet

According to the principle of operation, as stated above, cartridges are divided into two types:

1. For single lever taps;

   A typical cartridge of single-lever faucets

2. For thermostats;
3. Shower cabin (two-lever).

   Shower Faucet Cartridges

Each type has its own design features. For example, the number of holes for pipes and the shape of the linings for installation in the grooves.

Faucet Ceramic Cartridge

The device of the ceramic cartridge for the mixer is a simple structure, where the main parts are two plates. They fit tightly together for control. pressure and water temperature.

Faucet Ceramic Cartridge

Some of the most famous models are Hansgrohe and Grohe. Can be used for kitchen sinks, bathroom sinks and showers. This locking device needs regular lubrication due to the constant friction of the ceramic plates. If there is a leak, it cannot be repaired - in the event of a breakdown, it will need to be replaced.

Shower Faucet Cartridge

Cartridge for shower faucet Also called a diverter. It is designed not only for 3 water mixing positions, as standard parts, but for 4 positions and more. The number depends on the connected devices (for example, if a hydrobox is used, the diverter works in 5 positions).

Shower Faucet Cartridge

To switch positions, a brass rod with plates is used, which rotates 360 degrees around its axis. This angle allows you to combine several mixing modes - up to 6 positions of the lever.

Cartridge for single lever mixer

A cartridge for a single-lever mixer (GOST 25809-96) or a one-handed faucet is the most common locking device. Its operation is provided by a lever that can rotate in different directions to change the position of the cartridge locking device. It is spherical and disc.

Single lever mixer cartridge

It used to be used exclusively in bathroom sinks, but now it is also used for kitchen plumbing outlets and showers.

Ball Mixer Cartridge

A cartridge for a ball mixer is a fairly simple design, where there are several holes of different diameters at the bottom of the device. There can be 2 identical and 3, where one of them is larger.

The water is mixed here by changing the position of the shut-off ball. It can block all the holes at the same time or only half of them, changing the water pressure.

Thermostatic cartridge for faucet

The thermostatic cartridge is used for mixers equipped with a thermostat. On one side of such a tap there is a special temperature scale where you can select the desired parameters. The thermostatic lock is constantly in a predetermined position, maintaining the temperature and pressure at a certain level.

Cartridge for thermostatic mixer

This device is often used in public areas, such as washbasins or bidets.

How to fix breakdowns with your own hands

To repair a malfunctioning ball valve, you will need:

• wrench;
• hexagon;
• pliers;
• flat screwdriver.

Additionally, it is recommended to purchase rubber gaskets in advance. These components wear out quickly and are the main problems with ball mixers. Before starting work, turn off the water supply and drain the residue from the tap. When carrying out repairs, you need to monitor how the components of the ball mixer are installed.Often, after the procedure is completed, the cartridge starts to work incorrectly. This is due to the fact that the rubber gasket located at the bottom interferes with the normal flow of water.

When tightening nuts and bolts, do not apply force. If the parts are pinched, then the handle will be difficult to walk. And in extreme cases, because of this, the wear of internal components is accelerated, and cracks appear on the metal case.

leak

Leakage is the most common faucet problem. This failure occurs due to abrasion of rubber gaskets. This happens for natural reasons or due to the ingress of small particles into the rotary mechanism. In the latter case, damage to the ball is also possible, which leads to similar consequences.

To fix a ball valve, you must first determine the cause of the leak. Before disassembling the mixer, it is recommended to tighten the structure along the thread with an adjustable wrench. If this procedure does not bring the desired result, then you will have to disassemble the crane.

After performing this procedure, you need to clean the parts from plaque and small particles. In case of failure of the ball or wear of the gaskets, these parts must be replaced with new ones. The crane is assembled in the reverse order.

Crack

If a crack appears, the part will have to be replaced. But if the defect is small, then cold welding can correct the situation. This tool must be applied to a previously degreased surface (the material is treated with acetone or alcohol). Cold welding gives a temporary effect. Therefore, later you will have to purchase a new crane.

Valve problems

Problems with the valve arise due to breakdowns of components or clogging.To repair the handle, the latter must be removed, following the algorithm above, and the internal parts cleaned. After that, it is necessary either to replace the defective components, or to tighten the valve with an adjustable wrench.

Reduced water pressure

This problem occurs for two reasons: low pressure in the water supply or clogged pipes. Before disassembling the mixer, it is necessary to open taps in other rooms. If there is a weak pressure there, then you can correct the situation by calling the housing and communal services. Otherwise, you will have to disassemble the mixer and clean the parts through which water flows. You also need to unscrew and pour a product into the hoses that dissolves blockages.

Inability to adjust the temperature

If the jet temperature changes randomly, then the cause of the malfunction must be sought in the lower part of the mixer. This problem occurs because there is a gap between the ball and the rubber seats. It is impossible to eliminate such a malfunction with improvised means (sealant or otherwise). In this case, you will have to replace the ball cartridge and rubber gaskets.

A sharp change in water temperature is due to the low quality of water, which contains many impurities or is characterized by increased hardness. Therefore, before buying a mixer, you must study the passport of the mixer. Manufacturers usually indicate the recommended water hardness. Also, in order to avoid early breakdowns of taps, a filter should be installed.

Noise during operation

The noise that occurs immediately after opening the valve is typical for old taps. The causes of this problem lie in worn gaskets. Rubber eventually begins to move away from the bed under the influence of air currents and water. As a result, noise is generated due to the vibration of the gaskets.

Self-repair of a valve valve

Before disassembling the water tap, it is necessary to turn off the water, prepare the necessary tools and equipment.

For work you will need:

• wrench;
• Screwdriver Set;
• stationery knife;
• scissors;
• Silicone Grease;
• box;
• set of rubber gaskets.

In order not to waste time collecting the flowing water, it is necessary to prepare a bucket and rags in advance.

The dismantling of the crane is carried out in the following sequence:

• with a screwdriver pry off the colored plug on the flywheel;
• unscrew the bolt that secures the decorative cap to the box;
• remove the valve by grabbing it with an adjustable wrench and turning it counterclockwise;
• inspect the removed part.

In most cases, the cause of leaks and loud noise when the faucet is open lies in a worn gasket. She unscrews and throws out. The new part is lubricated with silicone and installed in the socket. It is more difficult to eliminate the malfunction if it is expressed in the worn thread of the valve. You can eliminate leakage and fix the part by winding tape or tow on the FUM thread.

Often the cause of leakage is the loosening of the inner sleeve, with which the goose is attached to the mixer body. In this case, the worn rings are replaced with the subsequent tightening of the bushing. The free flow of water is restored by disconnecting and cleaning the aerator. It is better to do this with an old toothbrush after pre-soaking the aerator in vinegar.

Advice! When working with pliers, an adjustable wrench or a gas wrench, it is easy to scratch the chrome surface of the mixer. To prevent this, unscrewed parts must be wrapped with a dense cloth, leather strips or whatman paper.

Replacing the rubber gasket

When repairing a faucet with their own hands, novice craftsmen are often faced with the need to replace a worn or torn rubber gasket. Mixers are equipped with valves of various configurations, for each of them go gaskets of individual shape, diameter and thickness. Sometimes they just aren't available.

If you need to replace the gasket, you can make the desired part from the following materials:

• thick skin;
• natural rubber;
• silicone;
• shoe sole;
• car tire;
• similar part, slightly larger.

Repair is carried out in the following sequence:

1. The valve is unscrewed with a wrench. The flywheel can not be removed if it does not cover the splines of the product.
2. The screw holding the rubber on the thrust plate is unscrewed. The screw, the hole for it and the surface of the thrust plate are cleaned of limescale.
3. The new gasket is placed on the screw. The threaded hole and rubber band are lubricated with silicone. The part is in place.
4. The water supply is turned on. The operability of the repaired valve is checked in various modes.

If the problem is fixed, then there is no leak. In the event that the valve continues to leak, it is necessary to examine its body for mechanical damage.

Most often, the fittings leak due to the deformation of the seat, against which the rubber gasket rests. Over time, plaque appears on the saddle, microcracks and chips form. These phenomena are eliminated with the help of a special cutter, which levels and polishes the saddle bed.

The main causes of plumbing failure

Knowing the main causes of plumbing failure, you can fix the breakdown without any hassle. There may be several reasons for the problem. In this section of the article, we will try to talk about them in more detail.

Because of what the mixer needs to be repaired:

Due to poor quality. Cheap models tend to break more often and faster than higher quality ones made by well-known manufacturers such as Vega, Grohe, Iddis, Elghansa, Vidima, Frap and others. Manufacturers of cheaper models of plumbing use outdated consumables, such as rubber tie-downs. While in more modern plumbing fixtures, a new generation paronite or silicone gasket is used. These products will last much longer than outdated rubber seals. The collars of the new sample are not able to deform and collapse so much

In addition, these gaskets do not dry out so much, which is important.
Due to the very large accumulation of dirty water in the plumbing system. As a rule, this problem happens with single-lever mixers, in which the volume of the jet can be adjusted.

The malfunction occurs due to a clogged aerator nozzle, which is attached to the bottom of the gander from which water is supplied.
Due to the supply of water with a high content of salts and alkalis. Very hard water can directly affect the internal elements of the mixer, causing the accumulation of various layers. These deposits can lead to cracking of the seal.

In the event of a more complex breakdown, it is necessary to start repairing the mixer itself. How to do this correctly, we will tell you in the next section.

Types of bathroom faucets

As a rule, models of three categories are used in bathrooms:

• traditional two-valve faucets;
• common single-lever devices;
• innovative sensor mixers.

For many decades, houses have been equipped with two-valve faucets. Such devices are equipped with two flywheel handles, one of which is designed for hot, and the second for cold water.

As a locking mechanism in older models, a system of a seat and a valve on a stem equipped with a rubber gasket was used. When the valve is turned on, the valve closes the seat, which provides a path for the flow of water.

The stem with the valve had to be screwed in, then unscrewed - this is long and inconvenient. Instead, they now use a metal bushing crane or a device from a pair of ceramic discs.

Two-valve models with a ceramic block, although they are more expensive than devices with rubber gaskets, have a number of important advantages. They are easier to manage, more durable and more reliable.

Single-lever options are currently gaining great popularity. Lever or joystick mixers have one shut-off and control mechanism that controls mixing, supply, and pressure of hot / cold water.

According to the locking unit, the range of such mixers can be divided into two categories:

• with ball block
• with disc cartridge.

The second option looks preferable because of the lower cost and maintainability. Its locking mechanism, by analogy with valve devices, includes two ceramic discs, with holes for mixing and shutting off water flows. If it fails, replacing the cartridge is quite simple.

Single-lever ball mixers are more expensive, and they are not repairable due to the difficulty of finding a locking mechanism. Plumbing stores offer it extremely rarely.

On the other hand, ball valves installed on hot water and cold water pipes in front of plumbing to shut off the flow in case of repair have almost completely replaced obsolete valves.

In appearance, it is almost impossible to distinguish a ball mixer from a cartridge mixer.

In order not to make a mistake when buying, it is important to pay attention to the internal structure of the model indicated in the technical data sheet, or ask the seller. The control element of the sensor mixer tap for kitchen or bath with shower is a photocell, which turns on the jet of water when you bring your hands to the faucet and turns it off when they are removed. Repair of such plumbing equipment requires experience and knowledge not only in the field of plumbing

Repair of such plumbing equipment requires experience and knowledge not only in the field of plumbing

The control element of the sensor mixer tap for kitchen or bath with shower is a photocell, which turns on the jet of water when you bring your hands to the faucet and turns it off when they are removed. Repair of such plumbing equipment requires experience and knowledge not only in the field of plumbing.

An exception to the rule is a blockage of the aerator, which manifests itself in a weakening of the water flow. This problem, which we will discuss in detail below, can easily be fixed with your own hands.

Types of mixers

To understand how to choose a quality faucet in the bathroom with a shower, you need to have a clear idea of ​​what they are, how they should be attached and what functions they perform. To facilitate the selection process, mixers are divided into the following types:

1) According to its purpose:

• faucets with low spout. It can be short or long. Such faucets have a water switch in the shower and spout.
• shower mixer. Mainly used in showers. A distinctive feature is the absence of a spout and a water flow switch.
• universal models. It is equipped with a long spout and can be used for bath and sink at the same time. Great option for small bathrooms.

2) By type of fastening:

mortise. Mounted on the side of the bathroom. Such models look beautiful, due to the fact that the hose is hidden under the bath, but if replaced with a new one, difficulties may arise. In such models, it is the hose that often fails.

stand mixers. Usually used for freestanding bathtubs. They are the most expensive option. Pipes lead directly from under the floor.

Wall mixer. The most commonly used models. Equipped with a long or short spout and a hose with a watering can, which are hung on the wall.

3) By design, they can be divided:

Two-valve. Such mixers have two handles - for hot and cold water. The water supply is carried out at the expense of the bushing valve, which blocks or opens the flow. The main advantages include quick temperature control and ease of installation. However, such taps constantly require gasket replacement, otherwise it leaks. If you have meters installed, then such a purchase will be costly, because while you set the desired temperature and adjust the flow, a lot of water will flow out.

Single valve. They have one lever, due to which the total water supply is regulated. The advantage is that you can control flow and temperature at the same time. Many models have valves that save water supply.The main disadvantage is that in the event of a breakdown, it is necessary to change the entire module.

Contactless. Water is supplied automatically by infrared sensors. They save water consumption, but run on electricity or batteries, which can sometimes lead to difficulties if power failure or in the absence of batteries. Not suitable for bathtubs, only for sinks.

Cartridges for single lever mixers

It is not always possible to replace the seals to eliminate the malfunctions that have occurred. In this situation, it may be necessary to replace the single-lever faucet cartridge. You can carry out repairs yourself. The main thing is to get a suitable repair part.

Replace faucet cartridge

How to replace a cartridge in a kitchen or bathroom faucet

Let's consider in detail how to replace the cartridge in faucet in the kitchenso you can do it yourself. The work is carried out in the following sequence:

To keep the new cartridge as long as possible, you should pay attention to products with good reviews.

Single Lever Faucet with Ball Switch

Alas, modern mixers, as well as their valve systems, fail from time to time. After all, the same materials are used in their production: metal, rubber and plastic, which can wear out during operation or under the influence of external factors.

To repair a ball valve, you need to understand its device and be able to dismantle it if necessary. The composition of the ball device includes:

• rotary handle; At its core, it is a lever, which is sometimes called a "butterfly".
• stock; The stem seal is adjustable with a nut and washer, which is also included.
• body with nut; Inside this housing are the ball cartridge and the rod.
• ball cartridge; It is fixed with rubber saddles.

This faucet can be repaired on its own without resorting to the help of specialists, only if the body is mechanically damaged, you will have to buy a new faucet

A ball cartridge is a non-separable element with three holes: for incoming cold and hot water and for discharging mixed water of the required temperature and pressure from the device.

The operation algorithm of a crane of this design is quite simple:

• when the lever is lifted, the ball starts to rotate;
• holes on the ball cartridge begin to align with similar holes in the seats;
• Depending on the area of ​​coincidence of these holes, the pressure of the jet changes.

General failures of mixers

There are valve malfunctions that are typical for all types of devices. It is quite possible to repair a bathroom faucet yourself if you know what needs to be done in each case.

Faucet wiring diagram

Consider the options for solving the problems that most often arise in household faucets:

1. Leakage at the junction of the gander with the body. It is caused by wear or destruction of the rings that are installed under the gooseneck union nut. For repairs, there is no need to turn off the water. It is necessary to unscrew the nut, remove the gander and replace the gaskets. To make them easier to put on, you can use soap or Vaseline.
2. A leak at the junction of the shower hose with the switch or with the watering can. There can be two reasons: the nut is loosely tightened or the gasket is worn.The problem is solved without the use of tools: the nuts are easily unscrewed and tightened by hand.
3. Leaking switch from gander to shower. The reason lies in the wear of the oil seal or in the breakdown of the return spring. The product is dismantled and defective parts are replaced.
4. Weak water pressure. As a rule, this problem occurs due to a clogged aerator. It needs to be unscrewed, cleaned and rinsed. It happens that a piece of the old gasket gets into the gander. You need to remove and clean the gander.

Recommendation for beginners: when working with a wrench, you need to put a dense cloth or leather on the nuts. This will preserve the integrity of the chrome coating that treated the mixers.

Types of single-lever mixers and their device

Despite the external similarity, rotary or single-lever mixers are of two types - with a cartridge (cartridge) and ball - with a ball inside. You can repair any of them, but for this you need to disassemble them first. And so that you can not only disassemble, but also assemble, it is advisable to familiarize yourself 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 locking and regulating mechanism is hidden in a special cartridge flask. In more expensive models of faucets, the cartridge body is made of ceramics, in cheaper models it is made of plastic. What these models are good for is ease of repair, but it is not always easy to achieve the required pressure with them - you need tighter control of the handle. But changing the temperature of the water 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. It mixes water flows, the same device shuts off the water.
• The body of the mixer, in which there is a "seat" place for the cartridge.
• Fasteners, studs and gaskets to ensure tightness.
• Outflow (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 still installed from below and there is another part of the body.

What is a single lever cartridge faucet made of?

The cartridge itself contains several (usually 4) specially shaped ceramic or metal discs. 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 lapped very tightly. For this reason, cartridge single-lever mixers are very demanding on water quality. The ingress of foreign fragments between the plates leads to the fact that the valve flows or stops working altogether. To avoid this, some manufacturers put filters on the inlet pipes. But, it is better to put 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 because of the element in which water is mixed - a ball with cavities. The ball is usually metal, hollow inside. Its outer part is polished to a shine. There are three holes in the ball - 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 enters the cavity on the handle.This rod with a rigidly attached ball changes the temperature of the water, its pressure.

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

It is easier to adjust the parameters with such a device - the parts are well ground in, 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-filtering is also required here.