Mixer taps are found in millions of French homes, and it is essential to carry out regular upkeep to prevent possible leaks and ensure their proper working. For those who wish to carry out these tasks themselves, we have prepared this complete guide on the various repair tools needed to tackle any kind of problem related to your taps. Haven't bought yours yet? Discover a wide selection of mixers (kitchen / shower / bathtub) in our shop.
The different types of problems encountered with mixer taps
Before starting repairs, it is important to identify common problems that can affect mixer taps. These include:
- Leak at the spout or base: this can be caused by wear of the seals and internal mechanical parts;
- Malfunction of flow and temperature control: this problem usually shows as unexpected temperature fluctuations during use;
- Leak at the water supply pipe: this may be due to poor tightening of the fittings or deterioration of the sealing washers between the different parts.
Essential tools for maintaining and repairing a mixer tap
To solve problems related to taps, various repair tools are needed:
- Adjustable wrench: this tool is used to tighten and loosen the nuts that fix the mixer to the washbasin or sink;
- Screwdriver: it will be useful to take apart certain parts of the mixer as well as to adjust some internal mechanisms;
- Slip-joint pliers: this versatile plier will allow you to hold parts in place when tightening or to unscrew fittings;
- Seal kits: these kits contain various types of sealing washers to replace those that have been damaged;
- Special tap lubricant: this product will help ensure the smooth operation of the internal mechanisms of your mixer.
Specific tools for particular mixer models
Some makers also offer tools specially suited to their products. These tools greatly ease maintenance and repair work:
- Special keys for cartridges: these may be essential to remove and refit cartridges without damaging them;
- Disassembly and adjustment tools: some brands design specific tools to ease access and removal of internal parts of their mixer as well as to adjust settings if needed.
The 5 steps for repairing a mixer tap
Now that you have identified your problem and gathered your tools, it is time to proceed with the repair. Here is the procedure to follow:
- Turn off the water supply: before any work, remember to close the stopcocks located on the hot and cold water supply pipes to avoid any risk of sudden leaks;
- Remove the external parts of the mixer: take off the covers, handles, and knobs to access the internal parts;
- Check and replace the seals: if you have detected a leak, check the condition of the various sealing washers and replace them if necessary with those in the seal kit;
- Adjust or replace mechanical parts: tighten the nuts, check the condition of the cartridge and replace it if faulty, adjust the stop (if equipped) to get the desired temperature;
- Put everything back together and check: once all parts have been inspected and fixed, reassemble the mixer by following the reverse order of disassembly then reopen the water supply to check if everything works properly.
Our 3 tips to make repairing your tap easier
Here are some additional tips that can help you successfully carry out your repairs:
- Work carefully: to avoid further damage to your mixer, handle it with care and do not use too much force;
- Keep track of your parts and seals: during disassembly, place your parts on a cloth or non-slip mat nearby to keep each piece in sight;
- Do not hesitate to consult online tutorials: many videos are available to guide you through each step depending on your mixer model.
Repairing mixer taps is a task accessible to anyone with a few basic tools, and it greatly extends the lifespan of these fittings. Of course, if you do not feel comfortable with this work, it is always possible to call on a professional plumber to carry out the repair for you.
