Troubleshooting: Antique Brass Tap Dripping

1. Why Does My Antique Brass Tap Keep Dripping? Fix Solutions

1.1 Main Drip Causes: Degraded Cartridges & Perished Rubber Washers

Persistent spout dripping is most frequently caused by naturally ageing internal ceramic cartridges or worn inlet rubber washers.

• Important Note on Spare Parts: UK-sized spare washers differ significantly from international specifications. Always source British Standard replacement accessories and WRAS-approved components to ensure a watertight fit for antique brass taps.

1.2 Step-by-Step Handle Disassembly & Washer Swap Process

1. Isolate the Water Supply: Before starting, switch off the household mains cold/hot water supply or close the local isolating valves beneath the sink.
2. Remove the Decorative Cap: Gently pry off the antique tap's decorative handle cap using a soft plastic wedge or a small flathead screwdriver to expose the internal fixing bolt.
3. Dismantle the Handle: Unscrew the fixing bolt and lift away the lever handle to access the internal valve core.
4. Replace the Damaged Washer: Use a wrench to unscrew the cartridge/valve body, remove the perished rubber washer from the base, and install a brand-new UK-spec replacement washer.
5. Reassemble: Re-fit the cartridge and handle assembly in reverse order, then restore the water supply to check for leaks.

1.3 Hard-Water Limescale Seal Damage Repair for UK Homes

Nearly 70% of UK residences sit within designated hard-water zones. Over time, accumulated calcium carbonate (limescale) erodes rubber sealing surfaces, leading to constant dripping even after a washer change.

• Fix Solution: Before installing new washers, dissolve built-up internal mineral scale by soaking the valve components in a mild, food-safe descaling liquid (such as a citric acid solution).

1.4 Full Tap Replacement Recommendation for Irreparable Units

If the tap's internal brass valve seat suffers permanent corrosion or deep pitting from long-term limescale exposure, DIY repairs will fail to seal the drip. In these cases, upgrading to a matching [Special:Replacement Antique Brass Tap] from our product collection is the most cost-effective long-term solution.