How to repair a water tap in the basement

 

Repairing a broken water tap in the basement is indispensable. If action is not taken immediately, not only will you pay a higher water bill, but you may also cause damage to the basement and the foundation of the house, which is a serious problem.

Determining the problem

Determining what the problem is can help you make an effective repair. Often you will find that something is loose and all you need to do is use a spanner to tighten it. Explore the tap and check that everything is tight and, if not, use a spanner to fix the problem. If it does not work, it may be a washer problem. This problem can easily be solved by dismantling the tap and replacing the washer.

Turn off the water

Turning off the water is an important step, because you do not want to cause further leaks or flooding in the basement. You can shut off the water through a nearby valve or through the main water supply of the house. Once the water is shut off, place a bucket under the tap and open it completely. This will help drain the water that has accumulated inside. It should only take a few minutes to get it all out.

Dismantling the tap

Remove the screws holding the tap with a screwdriver and take out the hardware. Once the tap and handles have been removed, you will need to use a spanner to get in and remove the nut. Once the nut is removed, you will be able to see the washer behind it. Remove and discard the washer. While everything is still disassembled, you can clean the tap and internal parts to remove any build-up that could cause a blockage.

Replacing parts

At this point, replace the washer with a new one and use a spanner to reinstall the previously removed nut. Next, use a screwdriver to reconnect the handles and tap. Be sure to use the screwdriver and pliers to fully tighten everything.

Once you have finished replacing the basement water tap parts, you will be able to reopen the water and test it. Be sure to check for leaks or drips to ensure that everything is in order. During the first few weeks, it is advisable to check it from time to time. It is good to keep an eye on periods when the weather changes drastically or it is very cold. Even if the tap is still in the house and not outside, many times the basement will be affected and cause the tap to leak.

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