Can the faucet be repaired? Himself a plumber, or how to disassemble a single-lever mixer. Disassembly of a mixer with a ceramic cartridge

The faucet is running! This is probably the most common expression in the topic of plumbing repairs. In this article, we will analyze how you can fix a single-lever or, as it is also called, a flag mixer.

They are widely used due to their ease of use, and most likely, they are used by you in the bathroom and in the kitchen.

The main control element of such a mixer is a cartridge, and if water flows from under the lever of your tap, then it's time to change this element. This is not difficult, it is enough to know the order of work.

Let's get started!

Faucet repair in photo examples

First of all, you need to remove the decorative cap - a plug, which, using colored marks, indicates the position of the lever for supplying cold and hot water

The opened hole gives access to the fixing screw that fixes the cartridge and the lever

Using a screwdriver (usually negative, but not always), unscrew the screw and remove the lever

Then we unscrew and remove the decorative cover, which is attached to the external thread of the circular nut

Using a wrench, unscrew and remove the circular nut

We take out the damaged cartridge and change it to a new one of the same size (the common diameter is 35 mm and 40 mm)

There are two conical protrusions on the cartridge, which play the role of guides, they must coincide with the place of their landing in the mixer body.

We repeat the assembly of the mixer in the reverse order. If the case is not damaged by corrosion (it happens) and has no mechanical damage, then the cause of the leak has been eliminated!

Lever and have a similar structure, so the leak from under the lever is repaired in the same way, by replacing the cartridge.

Video explanation | Single Lever Faucet Repair

It is always useful to know how to repair a bathroom faucet with a shower, do it yourself, without resorting to the services of specialists. After all, sooner or later any faucet in the bathroom stops working properly. The main causes of failures: wear of cartridges, gaskets, seals and fasteners. With help simple instructions everyone can figure out how to repair a bathroom shower faucet on their own.

Types and mixers and their designs

In order to repair a bathroom faucet with a shower, it is not at all necessary to call a plumber. Any crane is easily disassembled into parts. If a person understands his device, then repairing a bath faucet with a shower will be quick and efficient.

To find out how to fix the mixer, you need to figure out which parts of a particular design are responsible for malfunctions.

There are three main categories of bathroom faucets with shower:

Bathroom faucets differ from others in the presence of a bath-shower switch, which are also divided into several types.

Types of bath-shower switches

The part, the failure of which is typical for the repair of a faucet in the bathroom, is a shower switch. He is responsible for switching the water supply to the faucet spout or watering can. There are 4 main varieties:

The main causes of failure

Do-it-yourself mixer repair will not take much time if you correctly determine the cause of the malfunction. Any device will eventually fail. The mixer is no exception.

It can break due to wear of the components. The less quality materials, the shorter the service life of the components and the more often you have to repair the faucet in the bathroom. How to repair a faucet in the bathroom with your own hands?

1. Leakage from under the lever

Usually caused by a broken cartridge in a single-lever faucet. The following signs will indicate that the cartridge is out of order:

• the handle is difficult to rotate;
• the water supply is not completely shut off;
• the water temperature changes arbitrarily;
• cold water flows from a hot faucet, and vice versa.

To replace the ceramic cartridge:

• remove the plug, painted blue-red;
• unscrew the fixing screw with a Phillips screwdriver or a hex wrench;
• pulling the handle up, disconnect it from the body, after which the cover is unscrewed;
• with an adjustable wrench, unscrew the nut that fixes the cartridge in the housing;
• replace the damaged cartridge.

After replacing the defective element, you need to align the protrusions on the cartridge body with the grooves inside. If you lose sight of this, the faucet will leak.

2. Valve leakage

In two-valve mixers, the sealing washer often wears out. Sometimes the crane box becomes unusable. Such breakdowns lead to leakage. To replace the faucet box or rubber ring:

• remove the plug from the faulty valve;
• unscrew the screw securing the valve to the mixer;
• with an adjustable wrench, disconnect the crane box;
• replace the crane box or ring.

3. Leaking shower diverter

Before repairing the bathroom faucet switch, be sure to turn off the water in the room. A leak from under the switch indicates that the gland between the repaired mixer and the switch has become inoperative. To replace it:

• remove the button by clamping the stem with pliers;
• remove the valve with the stem;
• pull out the damaged seal.

4. Broken shower switch button

If after water procedures the button cannot be returned to its original position, which means that its spring has broken. In this case, the switch is disassembled according to the algorithm described above, the faulty spring is taken out and a new one is put in its place.

Sometimes the shower switch does not work, and water enters the shower head and faucet at the same time. This is due to a crack in the stuffing box, which is located on the stem. To fix this problem, you need:

• remove switch;
• get a stock;
• replace the damaged seal.

Many apartments still use the old cork switches. Over time, the button moves away from the body, resulting in a leak. To eliminate it you need:

• disconnect the screw;
• remove the handle;
• unscrew the nut;
• remove the lock washer;
• get a cork;
• wipe the cork and the inside of the case with kerosene;
• to grind the cork to the body, use abrasive paste, paraffin or petroleum jelly.

In spool switches, the gasket may wear out. To replace it, you should:

• disconnect the hose;
• remove the spout;
• unscrew the adapter;
• unscrew the valve;
• get the gold plate;
• replace rubber rings.

The repaired button will last a few more years.

5. Hose leak

Over time, the gasket at the attachment point of the hose to the faucet wears out. A leak is formed. The easiest way to fix such a breakdown: you just need to unscrew the shower hose nut, remove the damaged washer and insert a new one in its place.

6. Leak between watering can and hose

To eliminate this malfunction in a mixer that has broken down, it is also not necessary to use tools. It is only necessary to unscrew the nut that secures the watering can to the hose and replace the insulating gasket.

7. Blockage in the watering can

When troubleshooting bathroom faucets, repairs are not limited to replacing gaskets and cartridges. With prolonged use, the holes in the shower head become clogged with sand, limestone and other hard deposits.

In order for the shower to work as expected again, the mesh must be disassembled and washed. In some models, the screw is located under a plastic cap in the center of the watering can. Sometimes, in order to disassemble the grid, it is necessary to turn it counterclockwise.

8. Weak pressure in the mixer

An aerator is attached to the end of the spout. It retains solids and increases water pressure. If the water flows in a thin stream, the reason lies in the blockage of the filter. To clean it, unscrew it with pliers, carefully disassemble it into its component parts and rinse them under running water.

Other malfunctions

Specialists also face other types of breakdowns:

Do-it-yourself bathroom faucet repair does not require special skills. This craft can be mastered not only by men, but also by women. Regardless of the type of faucet in the bathroom, repairing and replacing parts is not difficult.

Video instruction

The kitchen faucet is one of the most frequently used plumbing fixtures in an apartment or house, so it is not surprising that it often fails.

A rotary one-handed faucet in this case needs preventive maintenance with the replacement of components, sometimes the malfunction cannot be fixed and the plumbing fixture has to be completely changed.

Almost every homeowner can do this at-home job without calling in a paid plumber. To do this, you need to know how to disassemble a kitchen faucet with one handle and have a simple construction tool available.

Single lever kitchen mixer

Single-lever type mixer device

IN modern kitchens the main type of taps are single-handled types, which have practically replaced the inconvenient two-valve designs and are more practical than sensor devices.

The device of a single-lever faucet for the kitchen is not complicated, the main nodes are the body (it has a low tide, seats for installation in the sink and water supply) and a built-in adjustment unit.

In the event of failure, the repair of a single-lever mixer in most situations consists in a simple change of a unified switching unit or its parts.

Types of control nodes

The manufacturer supplies the market with single-lever models for mixing liquids with only two types of control units: ball and plate ceramic cartridges.

It can be noted that ceramic cartridges, due to their high specifications and operational qualities practically ousted spherical models from the market.

A high-quality ceramic block can regulate the water supply for up to 10 years without loss of operational properties, budget Chinese crafts can fail the next day and need to be replaced much more often.

Appearance of structural elements of ceramic cartridges

Ceramic cartridges

A ceramic cartridge is a prefabricated connection of parts installed in a plastic cylindrical body, at the top of which there is a lever, on which a rotary handle is attached. Three holes are located in its lower part: water enters into two of them, and from the third the mixed liquid is directed to the ebb and flows out.

The main components of the cartridge are two slotted ceramic plates that fit snugly together. When one of them rotates around its axis, the inlets through which cold and hot water, overlap to varying degrees - thus, adjustment is carried out temperature regime.

If the movable plate is displaced along its axis, both inlets are simultaneously blocked - this is how the pressure is regulated.

The main advantage of equipping a kitchen faucet with a cartridge is its ease of replacement and high maintainability - its cylindrical body can be easily disassembled.

The principle of operation of the ceramic block

Ball

Ball control units consist of one main part - a metal ball with three holes for water and a rod for installing a rotary handle. During operation, the ball rotates in a spherical body seat, which has three holes: two for water inlet and the third for pouring out the mixed liquid.

Adjustment of the temperature regime and pressure occurs similarly to moving the handle in ceramic models; spring-loaded rubber rings are inserted into the area of ​​​​the inlets for sealing.

The advantage of one-handed ball valves is the simplicity of design, long service life and excellent maintainability - the metal ball itself theoretically cannot fail, so repairing the mixing device consists only in installing new gaskets.

Features of the device of ball nodes

Risks during purchase and operation

To avoid risks during the purchase and operation, it is better to purchase sanitary equipment from well-established manufacturers in the market - this ensures that it will last a long time without breakdowns and malfunctions.

Usually, the control unit is already installed in the plumbing fixture upon purchase, and given that all their models are unified, right decision will be the acquisition of exactly such a device immediately. This will allow, in the event of a breakdown of the old node, to immediately replace it with a new one, and if the situation repeats, assemble a working device from two faulty devices. further use refurbished.

When operating a kitchen faucet, in most cases, water is supplied using flexible reinforced hoses, which are not always of high quality. To avoid flooding of the premises in case of damage to the water hoses, you can install an Aquastop valve at the outlet of the pipes.

In this case, it should be borne in mind that the principle of operation of the valve is to block the water flow when high pressure, that is, it is effective if the water hose falls off the mixing body or pipe. In other situations, with a leak, the apartment can be successfully flooded with Aquastop protection.

What is needed for repair

To carry out repair work, you will have to disassemble the faucet without removing it from the sink; sometimes it may be necessary to repair the kitchen spout, which in one-handed models can be carried out without disassembly operations.

When dismantling the crane, you have to remove the handle, unscrew the fixing nuts and hoses - this requires a suitable tool, Consumables and accessories.

Tools and supplies for plumbing repairs

Tools

For repair work, you will need the following tool:

• Adjustable wrench for unscrewing the nut from the body of the mixer and dismantling the flexible hoses.
• end or flat wrench for screwing and removing bolts on the mounting studs.
• Phillips screwdriver or hex wrench for dismantling the crane handle.

Necessary materials

When removing the mixing body from the kitchen sink, removing the underwater hoses, one often encounters difficulties associated with the contamination of the dismantled parts with limescale or their corrosion. Before carrying out work, it is better to treat their surface with means household chemicals to remove rust and limescale - this will simplify the dismantling and further installation of equipment.

The presence of gaskets in the supply hoses and the mixing body precludes the use different kind additional seals in the form of synthetic and linen tape, rubber rings.

During repair work, it is often necessary to change underwater hoses that have become unusable; for replacement, it is better to purchase types with a stainless steel braid and a union nut with fittings made of non-ferrous metals (copper, brass).

The internal structure of a single-lever cartridge mixer

Cartridge faucet repair

Repairing a faucet with a built-in cartridge, depending on its malfunction, requires a different approach. If the tap does not close well or constantly flows, in most cases the cartridge needs to be replaced. When the shell or ebb is damaged, you will have to remove the mixing device and purchase a new faucet with subsequent installation.

What may need repair

The main components that most often fail during operation are the adjustment unit and spout. The control assembly can be damaged as a result of long-term operation with poor quality or from the ingress of contaminated water with sand into the plumbing system. The main reason for its malfunction is the breakdown of the built-in plastic parts and a rod on which the handle is attached.

The ebb most often fails as a result of clogging of the filter nozzles at its outlet - in this case, the water pressure breaks its thin-walled tube and a leak forms.

Spout filter repair

How to disassemble

When carrying out repair work, it is often necessary to disassemble a single-lever mixer, the process consists of the following steps:

• Using a knife or a flat screwdriver, remove the plastic plug in the side of the handle, the fixing screw can have a head for a Phillips screwdriver or a hex key. Unscrew the fixing screw with a suitable tool; before work, it may be necessary to pre-treat it with household chemicals against limescale and rust.
• After removing the handle, unscrew the decorative nozzle. It is designed for manual removal, but in the process of long work, water gets into the thread and plaque prevents twisting. To facilitate removal, you can use an adjustable wrench, after placing a soft cloth under its jaws to prevent scratches on the chrome surface. When carrying out work on dismantling the cap, excessive efforts should be avoided - this can lead to deformation of the thin-walled lining.
• Under the cap there is a clamping nut with a hex ring in the upper part - it is simply unscrewed counterclockwise with an adjustable wrench. Removing the cartridge is easy - it is removed from the mounting slot with your fingers by the lever.

Dismantling a faucet with a ceramic cartridge

How to replace the cartridge

Before changing the cartridge in the mixer, the internal parts of the mixer body are cleaned of plaque and dirt with a rag and household chemicals. Replacing the cartridge with a new one is quite simple - during installation, the body protrusions are combined with the recesses in the mounting socket.

Mistakes that can be made

It often happens that after a seemingly correct assembly, the cartridge does not work correctly. This happens due to the fact that the protruding rubber gasket in the lower part during installation prevents the two fixing protrusions on its body from getting into the mounting slots. The crane will have to be completely dismantled again, set the block in the correct position and press down harder with your hand when tightening the clamping nut.

During installation, it is important not to pinch the clamping nut - this can lead to a stiff joystick and compression of the body shell, causing rapid wear of internal parts and, in extreme cases, their cracking - if the joystick moves tightly, you should immediately loosen the clamp.

How to disassemble the faucet in the kitchen ball type

Ball mixer repair

The main repair of a ball mixer in the kitchen with your own hands is the replacement of gaskets, with significant damage to the ebb or body shell, leading to leaks, the plumbing will have to be changed.

Before repairing a ball valve, prepare ordinary tools and consumables in the form of rubber cylindrical gaskets and a dome washer. Household chemicals may be needed for the preliminary treatment of parts covered with plaque and corrosion.

Possible malfunctions

The main malfunctions of ball types include:

• wear of the upper dome gasket;
• hollow metal ball defects;
• abrasion of saddle valves;
• weakening of the springs.

If we repair the mixer with our own hands, then, unlike cartridge types, to accurately determine the faulty part, it requires preliminary disassembly.

We disassemble the mixer

When disassembling a single-lever ball-type mixer, the following operations are performed:

• Remove the decorative trim on the handle, completely unscrew the fixing screw and remove the handle.
• Unscrew the top cap with an adjustable wrench, installing it in the outer slots.
• A plastic washer with a domed rubber ring and a ball are removed from the body, the seat gaskets with springs are removed with a screwdriver.

How to disassemble a ball mixer - replacing seals

How to repair

In self-repair, the instructions for connecting the crane can help, having studied which it will be much easier to repair it.

But even in its absence, the repair is not particularly difficult, mainly perform the following operations:

• Most often, valve seats are changed. To do this, they are inserted into the body recesses along with the springs.
• If the ball is damaged, any ball repair is ineffective - it is replaced with a new one.
• Wear of the upper dome washer is very rare, when abrasion is needed, replacement is necessary.

To speed up the repair time without conducting a preliminary examination of the ball valve with its disassembly, it is better to purchase a standard repair kit from the distribution network in advance.

If the faucet is leaking, it is not necessary to call a plumber and pay for his work. In our article, we will figure out how to disassemble a single-lever mixer and do the repair yourself. To carry out work, it is necessary to familiarize yourself with the device of this sanitary appliance and prepare the necessary tools.

If it flows from under the lever

Experts attribute the appearance of water from under the faucet lever to the failure of the cartridge. In this regard, we will need to disassemble the device and replace the cartridge.

Mixer disassembly

At the initial stage of work, you need to remove a small rounded decorative cover. This plate usually has two multi-colored dots (red and blue) indicating that the faucet lever is turned to add hot or cold water. If the direction of the liquid supply does not match, the lid is turned over to the opposite side.

Single lever mixer device

When the decorative cover is removed, a screw will be exposed inside the hole that holds the lever in position. This lock can be unscrewed with a regular or Phillips screwdriver. There are times when a hexagon is required to remove the tap.

After removing the decorative cover

After removing the lever in one way or another, remove the decorative cover. It happens that this part is also impossible to remove in the usual way. The insert can be loosened by hand; to improve the effect, a soft, dry cloth is placed at the place of application of the force. If the cap could not be removed by hand, then to pull it out, you can use:

To protect the surface, the working part of the tool must come into contact with the part through the fabric. After several rotations in different directions, you can quickly remove the decorative cup.

Tightening or replacing the cartridge

After removing the protective lining, we see the cartridge in front of us. Now you need to unscrew the ring nut and you can remove the mechanism for supplying and mixing water. After pulling out this part, on the bottom you can see the mounting grooves that are used to install the device in its working position.

Slots for cartridge installation

If, after removing the cartridge, metal corrosion was noticed, then the mixer can be replaced with a new one. In some cases, water leakage from under the lever is eliminated by tightening the nut.

Reassembly

The assembly of the mixer begins with the installation of a new cartridge. After that, we tighten the circular nut, install a decorative cup. Next, install the lever or flag and fix its position with a screw. If the fastener was rusty or had a damaged thread, then the lever must be firmly mounted on the cartridge holder.

Cartridge for single lever mixer

If it leaks after replacing the cartridge

The main reason for such a fairly common phenomenon is the corrosion of the metal in the seat. We have already said that you can try to cover such areas with silicone, but if this does not help, then you will need to change the entire mixer.

If the lever goes down

Spontaneous lowering of the mixer lever usually tells us about its breakdown. When you click on the flag, water can be supplied in a thin stream or not at all. Many believe that the main reason for this behavior of the lever is cartridge failure, but this is not always the case.

All residents of a city apartment or country house plumbing is used differently. Some open the taps carefully, others, for example, children, sharply pull the flag. In the latter case, damage to the inner part of the lever, which is put on the head of the cartridge, is possible. In case of damage, the walls of the square insert diverge to the sides, which leads to a certain amount of free play of the part; when lifted up, the crane begins to fall.

If it leaks from under the shirt

In some cases, water may leak from under the faucet jacket. The main reason for this phenomenon is considered to be damage to the gaskets, and the liquid can leak both in the upper and lower parts in the area where the circular nut is located.

Water from under a gander's shirt

In this regard, during the installation of a single-lever mixer, you need to properly tighten the circular nut. This part is often unscrewed or loosened during product shipping, resulting in a small gap. Such a gap is quite enough for water leakage.

If the nut is well tightened, then the cause of the leak will be a faulty gasket. . To fix the problem, unscrew the nut, remove the nylon washer (serves to form a working gap between adjacent rotating parts of the housing). Next, remove the mixer spout along with the shirt and carefully check the installation sites of the gaskets.

There should be no signs of corrosion, shells, etc. In this case, the only solution to the problem will be to replace the gander from the old faucet, in the worst case, you will have to replace the mixer completely.

The second reason for water leakage from the shirt is the wear of the gaskets.. Such parts are made in the form of a horseshoe, and their working, most part faces the water chamber. It is quite difficult to buy a new faucet gasket, but you can repair the faucet.

Disassembly of the mixer to eliminate leakage from under the shirt

To do this, several layers of fum tape are laid in the seats, which will increase the diameter of the seals and improve their tightness. Next, put on gaskets, install nylon washers, assemble the rest of the mixer.

Before installing the valve in a permanent place, check its tightness. If repair work made correctly, the water does not flow, then the mixer can be fixed on the sink.

How to disassemble a single-lever faucet and do it yourself

How to disassemble a single-lever mixer and repair it yourself. What to do if water flows from under the lever or from under the shirt and if the lever itself drops.

Self-repair single-lever mixer

Single-lever faucets attract with their laconic design and easy control of the water flow. Turning on the water, changing its temperature and pressure - all this with one turn of the handle. These devices are reliable, have a solid service life - some branded ones give a 5-year warranty. Nevertheless, repair of a single-lever mixer is periodically necessary.

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 faucets 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.

How to disassemble and repair a cartridge faucet

Repairing a single-lever cartridge faucet often consists of overhauling and cleaning the o-rings. Salts are deposited on them, debris and dirt accumulate because of which the faucet begins to leak. To eliminate this trouble, the mixer is disassembled, all parts are wiped from dirt (soap warm water), rinsed, dried, put in place.

The sequence of installation of parts in a cartridge single-lever mixer

Let's figure out how to disassemble the cartridge faucet. First turn off the water, and then the procedure is as follows:

• Remove the decorative cap on the handle. Just pry it off with a screwdriver.
• Behind it is a mounting screw. We unscrew it with a hex wrench and take it out.

First unscrew the fixing screw

Actually everything. Dismantled single-lever mixer with cartridge. As you can see, there are not many details. The main working part is the cartridge. In it, inside, mixing takes place.

Cartridge replacement

The cartridge itself has a sealing gasket - a rubber saddle at the bottom, which ensures a snug fit to the body. Over time, rubber loses elasticity, water begins to ooze. If this is the problem, you can first try to clean this ring from the salts and deposits that have formed on it. Put the cleaned part in place, check the work. If the leak does not stop, you will have to change the cartridge.

Cartridges for "one-handed" mixers

Faucet cartridges have different diameters, inlets and outlets are located differently in its lower part. Therefore, if you need to replace it, first you disassemble the mixer, get the treasured part and go to the store or the market with it. You need to choose exactly the same model without any deviations. At home, install the cartridge in the case, turn it slightly until you feel that it “sat down” in place. Next - assembly, it goes in the reverse order.

Install the clamp nut first. Actually, at this stage, you can check how the new cartridge works. Turn on the water, adjust the temperature and pressure with the rod. To make it more convenient, you can put a handle on the stem. If everything is fine, continue the assembly.

We disassemble and repair a single-lever ball mixer

The single-lever ball mixer was invented just over 40 years ago. Its design is simple and reliable - actually there is nothing to break. If problems arise, it is only because of poor-quality water - particles of dirt settle on the rubber saddles on which the ball rests. Contact deteriorates, water seeps in and the faucet starts to leak.

How to Disassemble Single Lever Ball Mixer

Some ball valves are also implemented with a cartridge. Only inside the cartridge are not plates, in a ball. Disassembly of this type is no different from that described above. All the difference is hidden inside the flask. There are also other types of faucets. In them, the locking ball is installed directly in the rubber socket. There are some minor differences here.

The tap lever is removed in the same way - first remove the plug, then unscrew the screw with a hexagon. Pull the lever up, remove it. After the action is very simple and

Repair of single-lever faucet for bathroom, kitchen

Self-repair of a single-lever faucet in the bathroom or kitchen is possible. You just need to know how to take them apart. Description with photos and videos in the article.

Flowing faucet | Single Lever Faucet Repair

Repair of a single-lever (flag) mixer

The faucet is running! This is probably the most common expression in the topic of plumbing repairs. In this article, we will analyze how you can fix a single-lever or, as it is also called, a flag mixer.

Single-lever faucets have gained popularity because of their ease of use, and chances are you have them in both your bathroom and kitchen.

The main control element of such a mixer is a cartridge, and if water flows from under the lever of your tap, then it's time to change this element. This is not difficult, it is enough to know the order of work.

Faucet repair in photo examples

First of all, you need to remove the decorative cap - a plug, which, using colored marks, indicates the position of the lever for supplying cold and hot water

The opened hole gives access to the fixing screw that fixes the cartridge and the lever

Using a screwdriver (usually negative, but not always), unscrew the screw and remove the lever

Then we unscrew and remove the decorative cover, which is attached to the external thread of the circular nut

Using a wrench, unscrew and remove the circular nut

We take out the damaged cartridge and change it to a new one of the same size (the common diameter is 35 mm and 40 mm)

There are two conical protrusions on the cartridge, which play the role of guides, they must coincide with the place of their landing in the mixer body.

We repeat the assembly of the mixer in the reverse order. If the case is not damaged by corrosion (it happens) and has no mechanical damage, then the cause of the leak has been eliminated!

Lever faucets for bath and kitchen have a similar structure, so the leak from under the lever is repaired in the same way, by replacing the cartridge.

The mixer has been repaired, that's all, good repair!

How to disassemble and repair a single-lever faucet

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;

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

By internal device 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 openings 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.

In what cases is it possible to repair the mixer

Not all breakdowns of the mixer can be eliminated with the help of repair. Cartridge replacement or other repair is carried out in case of the following breakdowns:

• the cartridge is leaking;
• when turned on at full power, the ball mixer produces a weak pressure of water;
• when turned on, water is simultaneously supplied to the spout and shower;
• button switch failure.

More serious breakdowns are extremely rare, but require the replacement of the entire mixer.

We disassemble the mixer

Almost everyone can disassemble and repair a leaking single-grip mixer. This does not require professional tools.

Attention! Before disassembling a single-lever mixer, it is necessary to block the access of water to it.

For repairs you will need:

• screwdriver or knife;
• hex wrench of a suitable size;
• pliers.

Procedure

• Use a screwdriver (or a knife) to remove the plugs on the lever, indicating the direction of the handle for supplying hot and cold water.
• Loosen the screw and remove the handle.
• Carefully unscrew the ceramic and ring nut from the housing. This is done with a key or manually.
• Remove the cartridge from the case.

The entire procedure for disassembling the mixer takes an average of 10 minutes and is within the power of everyone.

We eliminate the leak

The cause of the flow of single-lever mixers is often failed cartridges. This happens due to abrasive particles of debris getting into the interdisk space. In this case, the cartridge must be replaced.

When choosing a replacement element, it is worth considering that the holes in the cartridge can be of different diameters (3 or 4 cm). Also, cartridges may differ in latches on the bottom plate. Replacement cartridges with silicone seals are recommended as they are more durable when exposed to water.

Advice. Disassemble the faucet and remove the cartridge from it before going to the store. The presence of an old cartridge will help "not to miss" with the purchase of a replacement.

After installing a new cartridge in the body, the mixer is assembled in the reverse order of disassembly.

Faucet/Shower switch leak

Often the problem is due to wear of the internal oil seal. To fix the problem, it (the oil seal) must be replaced. Troubleshooting procedure:

1. The handle must be in the closed position.
2. Remove the flexible shower hose.
3. Using pliers, remove the switch button from the faucet.
4. Using a rod or screwdriver, unscrew the adapter from the spout.
5. Replace worn o-ring.

Troubleshooting ball single lever mixer

Ball mixers are durable, but if a breakdown occurs, they cannot be repaired and require replacement. You can eliminate with your own hands only a weak flow of water dispensed and leaks associated with wear of the sealing rubber bands. It is difficult to call a “trouble” with a weak jet a breakdown - the mixer still functions. The reason is a clogged aerator.

Blockage removal procedure

1. Remove the aerator from the mixer spout.
2. Rinse thoroughly under running water in the direction opposite to the water supply.
3. Install the aerator by securing it with the clamp nut.

How to replace rubber seals

1. Remove the handle.
2. Remove the plastic shield two-piece. The black part is a seal that needs to be cleaned or replaced.
3. If the leak persists, remove the ball mechanism.
4. Replace bottom seal.
5. Replace the ball and secure the seals with the plastic nut.
6. Install the handle and check the operation of the mixer.

Advice. When replacing rubber seals, additionally use silicone grease, so the tightness will be higher.

Troubleshooting the Bath/Shower Switch

The single-lever bath faucet has a switch that controls the flow of water to the bath and shower. Possible problems:

• water is simultaneously supplied to the bath and shower. The reason is the uselessness of the spool gaskets.
• non-return to the starting position of the switch button. The reason is the wear of the switch rod spring.

Replacing the spool seal rings is somewhat difficult, and the main problem is that replacement gaskets are not commercially available. A spare set usually comes with the faucet. If the spare wheel is lost, you can independently cut out the gaskets from dense (3-4 mm thick) rubber. Homemade gaskets can temporarily solve the problem, but they will not last long.

The design of the switch includes two gaskets - above and below the spool. If the cause of the leak lies only in the top gasket, repairs can be made without disassembling the switch. It is enough to remove the decorative cap and carefully pull out the worn sealing gum. Also carefully install a new gasket. If the problem persists, you will have to disassemble the spool switch and replace the bottom rubber band.

The procedure for replacing the sealing rubber bands of the spool:

1. Check that the mixer lever is in the closed position.
2. Detach the shower screen flexible hose.
3. Remove the decorative cap, unscrew the screw fastening and remove the switch button.
4. Carefully remove the spool from the mixer body.
5. Notice the sealing gum by additionally lubricating them with hermetic paste.
6. Assemble and install switch in reverse order.

Switch Spring Replacement

The non-return of the button to the start position can be corrected by replacing the stretched spring in the switch. Procedure:

1. Remove the adapter as above.
2. Remove the coiled spring.
3. Remove the old spring.
4. Using pliers, screw the new spring onto the stem. The spring should be made of galvanized steel, and slightly smaller in diameter than the previous one.
5. Assemble and install the switch.

Preventive actions

Faucet repair can not always solve malfunction problems. In many cases, and always at the wrong time, the faucet must be replaced. In order to extend the life of the mixer as long as possible without repair, experts recommend taking preventive measures and choosing a product responsibly.

1. When buying, choose brass heavy mixers. They are more durable and will last much longer. But sulimine mixers will not last long.
2. To protect your faucet from most repairable failures, install water filters.

Faucet leaks that are not corrected in time can cause serious trouble. It is not difficult to disassemble and repair the mixer with your own hands. The main thing is to understand the device of the crane and have at hand necessary tools and spare parts.

How to disassemble and repair a single-lever ball mixer: video - How to disassemble a single-lever faucet in the bathroom

How to disassemble and repair a single-lever faucet in the event of a leak is shown in detail in the videos presented.

Single-lever taps are rapidly replacing traditional valve devices in apartments and houses. But no matter how convenient such modern plumbing, from time to time it fails for a variety of reasons.

In order not to spend money every time on the purchase of a new faucet, it makes sense to deal with the causes of breakdowns and master the independent repair of a single-lever mixer.

Ball, single lever, joystick, articulated - all these are the names of the mixer, which is controlled by only one lever. Using such a faucet is simple and convenient: moving the lever vertically regulates the amount of water flow, and turning it horizontally sets the right temperature.

This diagram allows you to understand the principle of operation of a single-lever mixer: changing the size of the hole for hot, cold and mixed water allows you to adjust its temperature and pressure with just a couple of movements

The internal arrangement of single lever mixers is usually of two types: a ball mechanism or a ceramic cartridge. The center of the ball mechanism design is a round mixing chamber. It looks like a hollow metal ball with three holes drilled into it.

Cold water enters one of the holes, and hot water enters the other hole. Inside the chamber, the flows are mixed and then enter the third hole, which is connected to the mixer spout. The control lever moves the ball in such a way as to adjust the gaps in these holes, i.e. change the amount of hot and cold water entering the mixing chamber and the size of the outgoing flow.

The ceramic cartridge consists of two or three plates. At the bottom, as in the ball mixer, there are three holes with exactly the same functions: hot water, cold water, mixed flow. But the mixing of hot and cold water is performed at the top of the device.

Mixers of both types work approximately the same, but they react differently to operating conditions. For example, limestone deposits almost never accumulate in a ceramic cartridge. The fact is that the plates in such a device are ground to each other very tightly, the size of the gap is comparable to the parameters of the molecule.

This diagram shows in detail the device of a single-lever ball valve. Information about individual elements device helps to understand the order of its disassembly and assembly

But ceramics are “not friendly” with sand and other mechanical impurities. A small grain of sand that gets into the cavity of the mixer can lead to a chip on the ceramic elements, and the entire cartridge will have to be replaced. Sand is practically not terrible for a metal ball, but there are almost no obstacles for a raid.

The weak point of single-lever mixers is rubber gaskets. In any case, these elements will have to be replaced at least every two years. Some buyers complain about problems with the accuracy of temperature settings. This salient feature inexpensive models with a small angle of adjustment. Such devices break down much more often.

How to disassemble a single lever faucet?

Very often, problems with such mixers arise due to a breakdown in their internal mechanism. The algorithm of actions in this case is quite simple: the crane must be disassembled, the damaged mechanism removed, replaced with a new, serviceable element, and the device must be assembled in the reverse order.

This diagram shows in detail the procedure for disassembling a single-lever mixer with a ceramic cartridge. To carry out the work, you only need a screwdriver and an adjustable wrench

This is not a very complicated procedure, but all operations should be performed very carefully and carefully. First, of course, you need to block the cold and hot water pipes leading to the mixer. To disassemble the ball valve, you must:

• Use a screwdriver to remove the decorative cap.
• Loosen and remove the fixing screw.
• Unscrew and remove the decorative nut, which acts as a cover for the mixer body.
• Unscrew the nut holding the mixer mechanism in the correct position.
• Remove the cartridge or ball mechanism from the faucet body.

To remove the decorative cap, use a regular screwdriver. Be careful not to damage the element. To unscrew the fixing screw of the faucet handle, you can use the hexagon. In some models, the handle fits quite tightly. It can be pry off with the end of a screwdriver.

The faucet cover with lever sometimes fits very tightly, to remove it, you can use a screwdriver. Work should be carried out carefully so as not to scratch the case

The cover of the mixer body is not difficult to remove by hand without the help of special tools. But the fixing nut inside the mixer is more convenient to unscrew with an adjustable wrench. After that, it will not be difficult to remove the internal mechanism of the crane.

It should be remembered that the sizes of these elements vary over a fairly wide range. The height of the stem can vary significantly, as well as the diameter of the cartridge. There are also various options landing part of the mechanism. That's why experienced craftsmen rarely buy a new cartridge in advance.

The nut, which fixes the position of the ceramic cartridge inside the faucet, should be carefully unscrewed using a regular or adjustable wrench.

It would be much more efficient to suspend repair work at this stage, take the damaged “stuffing” of a single-lever faucet and go with it to a plumbing store in order to buy an element exactly the same in size and design.

By virtue of design features mechanism, it cannot be somehow adjusted or adapted, an exact match of all parameters is needed.

Not all ceramic cartridges are the same size and configuration. To choose the right device correctly, you need to take a damaged cartridge to a plumbing store

After acquiring a new cartridge, all work is performed in the reverse order: the cartridge is installed, the adjusting rod is put on top, fixed with a screw and closed with a decorative plug. The plug usually indicates the direction of rotation for cold and hot water, this point must be taken into account during installation.

If the ceramic cartridge of a single lever faucet is clogged or damaged, it should simply be replaced with a new element, rinsing usually does not help.

When installing a ball mechanism, inexperienced plumbers sometimes confuse the location of the holes and put the mechanism incorrectly. As a result, such a mechanism will not work correctly after installation. Therefore, after disassembling the crane, you should carefully examine the ball and remember its correct position in order to act correctly in the future.

At the end of the repair of the single-lever mixer tap, cold and hot water is connected again and the quality of the repaired device is checked. If there are still some problems, the cartridge may not be installed correctly or there is some additional damage in the faucet. The process of repairing devices of this type is discussed in detail in the following video:

Overview of common breakdowns

Replacing the cartridge or ball mechanism is only one way to repair a single lever faucet. There are other breakdowns of devices of this type, the elimination of which will require different means and methods. The most common problems associated with joystick mixers are:

• cracked body of the device;
• clogged aerator;
• problems with supply pipes or flexible hose;
• incorrect position or wear of rubber gaskets;
• water leakage through the shower head;
• problems with the flow switch on the shower hose.

Usually, diagnosing the problem is relatively easy, since each situation has characteristic symptoms. Sometimes you have to fix several problems at the same time. This usually occurs when using poor-quality plumbing or non-compliance with the operating conditions of the mixer, which leads to increased loads.

Crack in the body of the device

If water flows out from under the mixer, there is a high probability that its body has cracked or leaked somewhere. This situation can occur suddenly, for example, if a heavy object is accidentally dropped on the mixer. Sometimes gaps appear gradually, under the influence of water for a long time.

In any case, it is almost impossible to completely eliminate such a breakdown. The most reliable way to repair is to completely replace the body of the device, but usually the old mixer is simply dismantled and a new model is installed. Sealant is used as a temporary measure.

Usually, the crack is simply covered over with a suitable composition, for example, “cold welding”. Before starting work, you should study the instructions for using the sealant, and strictly follow the manufacturer's recommendations. But a mixer repaired by such methods will look very unpresentable. Over time, the sealant will crumble, and you will have to repeat the repair again and again. Therefore, after sealing the crack, you should immediately plan the purchase and installation of a new mixer.

Replacing a worn gasket

If the faucet is leaking from below and its body is not cracked, the gaskets between the faucet and the flexible water hoses may have worn out. This problem is relatively easy to fix. First you need to shut off the supply of hot and cold water to the mixer.

If the rubber pads under the faucet ball mechanism are worn out or installed incorrectly, the faucet can make a lot of noise and even leak.

At the same time, some water will still remain in the mixer itself. You need to open the faucet and drain this water. Now you should disconnect the hoses through which water enters the mixer. Here, too, there are remnants of water, so you should put a bucket below, and rags will not hurt to collect accidentally spilled water.

When the flexible connections are disconnected, you need to unscrew the fixing nut, which is located under the sink and holds the mixer in the correct position. Under the nut is the gasket. If it looks worn, cracked, or deformed, this is most likely the cause of the leak.

These gaskets are sold at any plumbing store or you can cut a suitable element from a piece of rubber. Before installing the gasket, it is recommended to clean the installation site from accumulated dirt. Then you need to assemble the system in the reverse order: tighten the fixing nut, connect the flexible leads, restore the water supply. After that, you need to open the tap to check the operation of the device.

Problems with the aerator

A small nozzle, put on the faucet spout, cuts the water flow into separate streams and artificially increases its volume. The holes in this nozzle are small, if the tap water contains impurities, they can easily become clogged. Sometimes problems arise due to the fact that the aerator is simply rusty.

The aerator - the nozzle on the faucet spout - can become clogged, which leads to a decrease in the flow of water. It helps to solve the problem by flushing the aerator or replacing it

A characteristic sign of this problem is a decrease in water pressure at one point, for example, in the kitchen. At the same time, water is supplied from other taps in the same quantity. If the aerator was removed, and after that the flow of water from the mixer increased markedly, then the cause of the breakdown can be considered precisely established.

Solving this problem is very simple. The aerator is usually easy to unscrew from the spout. After that, it must be washed or dirt removed in another way. You can even install a new aerator, if possible. After that, the previous water pressure will be restored. Some refuse to use the aerator, but in this case, using the mixer will not be so comfortable.

If the pipes are clogged

The aerator is in order, but has the flow pressure noticeably weakened? Almost certainly, pipes or flexible supply pipes are clogged, through which hot and cold water enters the mixer. This problem is especially common in older plumbing systems with metal pipes. In the process of corrosion, metal particles accumulate inside, reducing or completely blocking the gap.

If the flexible hoses that supply cold and hot water to the faucet are clogged, they must be removed and cleaned or replaced with new ones.

First, turn off the water, and then proceed to fix the breakdown. With flexible hoses, everything is very simple. They need to be removed, washed, cleaned and reinstalled. If the pollution is too serious, you can simply put new hoses. With pipes, things are a little more complicated. To clean them, a “snake” cable is used.

In this case, the part of the pipe in which contaminants have accumulated should be disconnected from the water supply system, and after cleaning it should be put back in place. Sometimes such a section of the water supply is replaced and new structures are installed. If the pipes are old and get dirty often, it makes sense to think about modernizing the plumbing system and installing plastic pipes which are much less susceptible to corrosion than metal structures.

Faucet in the bathroom

A more complex faucet is usually installed on the side of the bathroom than in the kitchen, since here, in addition to the usual spout, a shower head is used. To the problems described above, there are breakdowns associated with the mechanism for switching the flow of water from the spout to the shower head and vice versa.

The single-lever faucet, designed for installation on the side of the bath, is complemented by a mechanism for switching the flow to the shower head. If the gaskets of this mechanism are worn, they must be replaced.

It happens that water gradually leaks through the shower head. This indicates wear on the top gasket of the device. Fixing the problem is relatively easy. You need to remove the fixing nut and the shower hose that it holds. This will provide access to the top gasket.

This element is removed and replaced with a new one, which can be bought or even cut from a rubber sheet, the thickness of which is about three to four millimeters. Of course, the installation site of the new gasket should be cleaned of accumulated contaminants. After repairing the faucet in the bathroom, the shower hose is reinstalled and the operation of the faucet is checked.

But if problems arise with the gasket, which is located at the bottom of the mixer, it will be a little more difficult to fix the breakdown. Externally, such a malfunction is expressed in the fact that the shower head control lever is not held in the correct position and lowers, preventing the water from switching.

First you need to shut off the supply of hot and cold water to the bathroom faucet, then unscrew the nut and remove the shower head. Then, the adapter and the mixer spout are sequentially dismantled. To get to the gasket located below, you will have to remove the entire “stuffing” of the mixer. After that, the gasket is replaced and the device is assembled in the reverse order.

It happens that the gaskets are not worn out, but they are not the right size or installed incorrectly. This is not uncommon if the gaskets are cut by hand. If the mixer starts to make a lot of noise when the water is opened, it makes sense to check the condition of the gaskets. Usually it is enough to cut them or just change their position a little. If the gaskets are not to blame, the additional noise effect can usually be eliminated by installing filters.

How to prevent malfunctions?

The condition of the mixer and its service life depends on several factors:

• tap water quality;
• proper installation of the plumbing system;
• quality of a particular mixer model.

Inexpensive faucets may look attractive, but their lifespan is short. The case and the internal mechanism, made of low-quality materials, fails quickly and often. The quality of water and the design of the plumbing system are interdependent factors. As soon as flaws in the installation of pipes become apparent, they must be immediately eliminated.

Availability of filters coarse cleaning can significantly increase the life of a single-lever mixer. Don't neglect it useful device. Water hardness must be taken into account at the stage of purchasing the device. On the packaging and/or in the passport of the mixer it is indicated what water hardness the product is designed for. You should correlate this data with information about the quality of water in your own home.

An aerator is another useful factor that can positively affect the condition of the mixer. The device cuts the water flow into separate jets, which visually increases the volume of the flow. This allows you to reduce the amount of water entering through the mixer, which leads to saving water and the life of the device.