Bath mixer tap - cold side not working

[kath34]

Hi,

I wondered if someone could help? Today (no warning whatsoever) the cold side of my bath mixer tap isn't working. The tap itself is suddenly really stiff, only turns half way and no cold water comes out. The hot water side is fine and the sink is ok too. It was fine last night.

I've tried taking the top of the tap off, but don't get any further and nothing else seem to come off and I can't see a washer. I've also tried WD40 to see if that helps, but it hasn't.

Does anyone have any ideas or is it a plumer job? Does anyone know any good plumers who don't cost the eath in the Colindale area?

Many thanks

 

[gigz]

Sounds like the washer/cartridge isn't lifting, try googling it as it can be an easy diy fix.

 

[Whitespirit66]

A pic of your tap would help. It sounds like the ceramic discs inside are knackered.

If it's a branded tap, you could get new discs from the manufacturer. If not, it may be a load of aggro to get the discs if your local merchants can't help. A new tap may be easier.

I don't charge the earth, but it's a bit of a schlep from The West country. Ooooaaarrr.

 

[Whitespirit66]

EDIT

Just reread your post. If it only turns half a turn, but normally turns several turns to fully on, it's more likely to be a traditional washer type tap, not ceramic.

If the valve mechanism is mullered, you can buy a tap reviver to replace it.

http://www.supremeplumb.com/cgi-bin...Bristan_Complementary_Products.txt&item=00015

 

[kath34]

Hi, yes it seems to be a normal washer tap, but how would i fit the Tap Reviver? does the whole top just crew off and is replaced or is it an under the bath job?

Thanks very much for your help!

 

[Whitespirit66]

You need to be able to turn the cold water off, remove the cold tap head, then get a spanner to remove the valve underneath the head. You don't go under the bath.

There may be a cap on the top of the tap that comes off to reveal a screw that holds the head on. A pic would help.