Outside tap fix

[u0362565]

Hi all,

Our outside tap is leaking, initially it was just a drip but then after running and closing it off lots of water was gushing out still. Luckily have a stopcock for it inside so have isolated there (see attached pics). Easiest thing to do would be replace just the tap outside which is threaded on? I've attached a picture of the setup, I'm not really sure why there is so much pipework outside? A straight union backplate with the tap connected to that would look a lot neater. However, I want to take the route that requires the least touching of the plumbing inside. There's no way I can thread the tap straight on to the grey Flexi coming out of the wall with some adapter? I think the grey Flexi itself would have to be replaced? The wall plugs are also loose, so could either go up a size or replace from the vertical copper section down to a new backplate..Thanks for the help.

 

[endecotp]

It may only need its washer replaced.

 

[u0362565]

Ah yes good point. Is this likely to be the washer? Assuming I can unscrew it in the first place.

https://www.screwfix.com/p/arctic-hayes-pegler-tap-washers-1-2-5-pack/2070J?tc=FB9&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiA8q--BhDiARIsAP9tKI1nWeguyVnfntJ6XbEXsFFBsBswa16EyDJ5C8bKi5_-syWR_SOSOzMaAvhEEALw_wcB

 

[CountryFan]

Wow that’s rough and illegal as there’s no backflow prevention. As soon as you repair the tap then you’re liable to make sure it’s compliant, or face the water undertaker if you’re found out.

So if you wanted it neater and compliant, then you could replace the fittings with the through the wall backplate and then tidy up the plumbing inside, or pay a plumber to do it and explain you want it water regulations compliant.

 

[u0362565]

Thanks for point that out, I didn't know that was a requirement. Will probably get it all replaced when we get the kitchen done which hopefully won't be too long but ideally need this to work over the summer at least. So will try the washer.

 

[u0362565]

Ha can't even release the nut to get to the washer or the nut for the tap itself. Guess I shouldn't be surprised being outside for years. Think it's plumber time

 

[Elkato531]

Stick a new tap on. Less than a tenner and easier than changing a washer. Get one with check valves and it'll also be compliant.

https://www.screwfix.com/p/essentials-outside-tap-with-double-check-valve-15mm-x-1-2-/37241

 

[Dereekoo]

Ha can't even release the nut to get to the washer or the nut for the tap itself. Guess I shouldn't be surprised being outside for years. Think it's plumber time

Get a bigger wrench/use more force and have the tap open when you try to do it

 

[u0362565]

Stick a new tap on. Less than a tenner and easier than changing a washer. Get one with check valves and it'll also be compliant.

https://www.screwfix.com/p/essentials-outside-tap-with-double-check-valve-15mm-x-1-2-/37241

Ah didn't know they can come with the check valve in! Thanks

 

[u0362565]

Get a bigger wrench/use more force and have the tap open when you try to do it

Might enlist an assistant to hold while I wrench.

 

[CountryFan]

Stick a new tap on. Less than a tenner and easier than changing a washer. Get one with check valves and it'll also be compliant.

https://www.screwfix.com/p/essentials-outside-tap-with-double-check-valve-15mm-x-1-2-/37241

No, it’s not allowed only where a direct replacement of an existing tap where installing a double check valve is not practicable. Since there’s plenty of room inside it would circumvent the requirements.

 

[jj4091]

No, it’s not allowed only where a direct replacement of an existing tap where installing a double check valve is not practicable. Since there’s plenty of room inside it would circumvent the requirements.

And that would be checked by whom?

 

[Elkato531]

No, it’s not allowed only where a direct replacement of an existing tap where installing a double check valve is not practicable. Since there’s plenty of room inside it would circumvent the requirements.

It is a direct replacement of an existing tap which would provide backflow protection where none exists at the moment. An internal double check valve is preferable but a new tap with check valves is fine here. If the OP was to change the pipe though the wall to a backplate type then that might be a different matter. It could then be classed as a new installation which should be done to regs.

 

[u0362565]

Thanks all, more debate than I expected here. You live and learn.

 

[CountryFan]

And that would be checked by whom?

Should the OP want a water meter then it could be reported by the undertaker, but I get what you’re saying.