Hot water woes: why is my tap acting like a stubborn mule?

If your hot water tap has become stiff, it can be a frustrating and inconvenient issue to deal with. Fortunately, there are several potential causes for this problem, and many of them can be resolved relatively easily. In this blog post, we’ll explore the most common reasons why your hot water tap may have become stiff and provide step-by-step instructions on how to fix each issue.

Causes of a Stiff Hot Water Tap

1. Mineral Buildup: Over time, minerals from the water can accumulate inside the tap’s valve, causing it to become stiff. This is especially common in areas with hard water.
2. Corrosion: The metal components inside the tap can corrode over time, leading to stiffness. This is more likely to occur if the tap is exposed to moisture or chemicals.
3. Loose Handle: If the handle of the tap is loose, it can cause the valve to become misaligned, resulting in stiffness.
4. Worn O-Rings: The O-rings inside the tap’s valve can wear out over time, causing leaks and stiffness.
5. Faulty Cartridge: The cartridge inside the tap is responsible for controlling the flow of water. If the cartridge is faulty, it can cause the tap to become stiff.
6. Broken Valve Stem: The valve stem is the component that opens and closes the valve. If the valve stem is broken, it can cause the tap to become stiff or inoperable.
7. Sediment: Sediment from the water supply can accumulate inside the tap’s valve, causing it to become stiff.

How to Fix a Stiff Hot Water Tap

1. Mineral Buildup:

• Remove the tap’s handle and aerator.
• Use a vinegar solution to dissolve the mineral buildup.
• Rinse the tap thoroughly with clean water.

2. Corrosion:

• Remove the tap’s handle and aerator.
• Inspect the metal components for corrosion.
• If corrosion is present, replace the affected components.

3. Loose Handle:

• Tighten the screws that secure the handle to the tap.
• If the handle is still loose, replace the handle.

4. Worn O-Rings:

• Remove the tap’s handle and aerator.
• Replace the worn O-rings with new ones.
• Reassemble the tap.

5. Faulty Cartridge:

• Remove the tap’s handle and aerator.
• Remove the cartridge by unscrewing it or pulling it out.
• Replace the faulty cartridge with a new one.

6. Broken Valve Stem:

• Remove the tap’s handle and aerator.
• Remove the valve stem by unscrewing it.
• Replace the broken valve stem with a new one.

7. Sediment:

• Remove the tap’s handle and aerator.
• Use a flashlight to inspect the valve for sediment.
• Remove the sediment using a small brush or tweezers.

Prevention Tips

To prevent your hot water tap from becoming stiff in the future, follow these tips:

• Flush the tap regularly: Run the hot water tap for a few minutes each week to help prevent mineral buildup.
• Clean the aerator regularly: Remove the aerator and clean it with vinegar or a commercial cleaning solution.
• Lubricate the tap: Apply a small amount of silicone grease to the tap’s handle and valve stem to help prevent corrosion and stiffness.
• Install a water softener: If you have hard water, installing a water softener can help prevent mineral buildup.

Conclusion: Restoring Functionality to Your Hot Water Tap

By following the steps outlined in this blog post, you should be able to diagnose and fix a stiff hot water tap. If you encounter any difficulties or the issue persists, it is recommended to contact a qualified plumber for assistance. Remember, regular maintenance and preventive measures can help keep your hot water tap functioning smoothly for years to come.

FAQ

Q: Why does my hot water tap get stiff after I turn it off?
A: This is likely due to mineral buildup. As the water cools, minerals can crystallize and accumulate inside the tap’s valve, causing stiffness.

Q: How often should I clean my hot water tap to prevent stiffness?
A: It is recommended to clean your hot water tap every 3-6 months to remove mineral buildup and prevent stiffness.

Q: Is it safe to use vinegar to clean a hot water tap?
A: Yes, vinegar is a safe and effective way to remove mineral buildup from hot water taps. However, it is important to rinse the tap thoroughly with clean water after cleaning to remove any residual vinegar.