Modern plumbing is constantly changing its appearance, uses more advanced technologies and materials, so it is not only functional and comfortable, but also durable. Thousands of companies around the world are developing durable products that are easy to use and simple to maintain.
For example, two-valve taps, which are problematic to adjust to a comfortable temperature, have been replaced by single-lever models that can be easily opened even with one hand. In this article, we will tell you what the device is, as well as how to repair a ball mixer for a bathroom with your own hands.
Design
The single-lever bath mixer is structurally different from the two-valve. It has only one lever handle, with the help of which the temperature and power of the water pressure in the tap are regulated. This type of faucet is also known as one-armed bandit, ball, articulated, joystick. It performs three main functions: mixing water at the optimum temperature, shaping the jet and changing its power. Its mechanism of action is quite simple:
Please note that a single-lever mixer consists of the following components: a rotary handle, a faucet cover, a spout with a mixer body, an inner chamber or cartridge, as well as several gaskets and seals.
Views
Inside the mixer, as can be seen even from the name of this plumbing fixture, cold and hot water is mixed in order to obtain a stream of the optimum temperature. This process is carried out using a ceramic cartridge or a ball mechanism. According to the device of the internal chamber of the mixer, there are 2 types of devices:
Important! Despite the differences in internals, the ball and ceramic cartridge models look and function roughly the same. However, there are some differences: the cartridge is better protected from the accumulation of limescale, and the "ball" is resistant to impurities contained in tap water.
Advantages and disadvantages
Many homeowners pay attention to a single-lever mixer, because its design and repair, as well as installation, are simple, but at the same time very effective and functional. These more modern devices differ from two-valve devices not only in a more aesthetic appearance. They are also very convenient to use, they allow you to more accurately and quickly adjust the water temperature, reduce its consumption. But they also have disadvantages:
Remember! To increase the service life single lever mixer you can improve the quality of tap water by installing a special filter, as well as perform timely preventive maintenance of the device.
Operational problems
Even high-quality plumbing fixtures fail over time. The service life of a faucet depends on the material from which it is made, the quality of tap water and the intensity of use. The most common problems that arise when operating single-lever models are:
Important! Whatever High Quality nor was the mixer, it needs preventive maintenance. Even if there are no problems during operation, you need to disassemble the device once every 2 years, clean it, and also replace the gaskets. After all, even a small speck caught under the seal can cause a leak.
Repair
Many home craftsmen are interested in how to repair a single lever type ball mixer if it does not work well. Experienced plumbers say: if the device has become unusable, you can only completely replace the cartridge or clean it, as well as replace the gaskets. To do this, proceed as follows:
Please note that each plumbing fixture has its own service life, which depends on its quality and intensity of use. However, this period can be extended by improving the quality of the tap water using a cleaning filter and by regularly performing preventive maintenance on the device. For a single-lever mixer, maintenance consists of periodic disassembly and cleaning, as well as timely replacement of rubber seals.
Video instruction
Tsugunov Anton Valerievich
Reading time: 2 minutes
There are not so many plumbing fixtures in an ordinary apartment. Typically, taps and sinks are installed in bathrooms and kitchens. Sooner or later, such devices need to be repaired or replaced. To perform this procedure, most residents prefer to call representatives of the housing office (this is their diocese). However, repair and replacement can be done on your own. This approach allows you to save money (the plumber will not work for free) and gain confidence in the quality of the work performed. So, how does the mixer repair do it yourself?
Malfunction symptoms
How to change a faucet in the kitchen? To answer this question, you need to firmly know that it is a replacement that is needed, and not minor repairs. Faucet problems are indicated by the following symptoms:
- Dampness near the sink, small puddles may form. This is an alarming signal that residents rarely pay attention to, attributing the appearance of moisture to their own inaccuracy. Reason: Leakage of flexible hose connections.
- The tap is leaking. Water constantly drips from the mixer nozzle, even when closed. Reason: wear of rubber seals.
- Water flows from under the lever or valves. Reason: failure of the axle box or cartridge valve.
- Weak pressure, difficulty in regulating the water temperature. Probably, there was a clogging of the supply hoses or poor permeability of the common house pipes.
In any of the situations described above, you can disassemble and repair the mixer yourself. An exception is the repair of modern models, stuffed with electronics and touch controls. Even the plumbers of the housing office will not help here: you will need to call the manufacturer's service representatives.
It is worth noting that three types of mixers are used for the kitchen: single-lever, two-valve with a worm gear or ceramic valve axle box. Let's consider the repair of each structure separately.
Preparation for work
Before disassembling the mixer in the kitchen, you need to carry out preparatory work. In particular, turn off the water supply: we wrap the locking elements on the common house pipes in the apartment. Given that the shut-off valves are rarely closed, the procedure can cause certain difficulties. The grease applied to the threads will help to turn the tap. Do not use hammers and other percussion tools: you can break the threaded connection and flood the neighbors from below.
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It will be correct to prepare the tools in advance. In particular:
- Screwdriver: flat and cross-head.
- Pliers.
- Hexagon set.
- A set of wrenches, including adjustable wrenches.
In addition, FUM tape, rubber for the manufacture of seals, and linen thread may be required.
So how to properly repair a faucet?
Single lever
This is the most common design found in most kitchens. This is a swivel mechanism where the pressure and temperature of the water are adjusted by raising or turning a knob.
A crane of this design is leaking for three reasons:
- Deformation or damage to the rubber pad.
- Mechanical damage to the case.
- Failure of the cartridge.
What to do in these situations? To begin with, we visually inspect the cases for chips or cracks. A detected crack clearly indicates that the mixer needs to be replaced. You can briefly cover the chip with a sealant or "cold welding", but this is a temporary measure. If the outer shell is in order, the valve must be disassembled. This is done as follows:
- Remove the decorative cover. This is a small plastic circle that sits under the rotary knob. It can be picked up with a flat screwdriver or a knife blade.
- We unscrew the fixing bolt. This will require a hexagon of the appropriate diameter. It is not recommended to use a screwdriver: you can grind off the edges of the retainer.
- Remove the swing arm.
- We unscrew the control washer.
Having made these manipulations, we get access to the inner filling of the mixer. In particular, you can see the O-ring and the cartridge that is located underneath. If the valve leaks due to wear of the seal, we make a replacement. The new ring should be larger than the retracted connector in diameter, and fit into place with a noticeable effort.
If O-ring wear is not visible on visual inspection, the problem is with the cartridge. This item cannot be repaired and is replaced entirely. To be guaranteed to repair the tap and eliminate the leak, you need to clean all the component parts from the formed plaque. The mixer is assembled in reverse order.
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With two crane worm-type axleboxes
In two valve models, water is mixed by alternate rotation of the "lambs", which are responsible for supplying cold and hot water. The design is quite cheap, therefore it is in high demand. If the mixer leaks due to a crack in the body, it is necessary to dismantle the valve and install a new one. However, the most common problem is the wear of the rubber gaskets that restrain the flow of water. This problem is typical for a hot water valve. Regular exposure to high temperatures destroys the rubber, which violates the tightness of the joint between the valve axle box and the mixer body. To eliminate the defect, you need to disassemble the crane.
How to remove a worm-type valve?
Here's what to do:
- We remove the decorative plug from the "lamb".
- Unscrew the fixing screw with a screwdriver.
- Remove the valve.
- We turn off the crane to the axle box with an open-end wrench.
- Remove the worn out gasket.
- We install a new seal.
- We assemble the crane in reverse order.
Please note that a worn-out element can be replaced with a factory gasket, or you can cut an analogue out of dense rubber yourself. Replacing the valve of the axle box in the mixer is carried out in case of thread wear or mechanical damage to the part.
With ceramic crane axle box
This is an analogue of the previous model, which has a longer service life. The reliability of the design is ensured by replacing the rubber gasket with ceramic plates. However, such crane axle boxes are sensitive to water quality: the presence of sand or fine debris has a detrimental effect on ceramics. In particular, the plates are grinded, which leads to a violation of the tightness of the joints. If you use a faucet with ceramic faucet axle boxes, be sure to install a water filter.
Disassembly of the model with a ceramic crane axle box occurs according to the scheme described above, but the mixer can be repaired differently. If the plates are worn out, they must be replaced. You can buy the necessary items in a plumbing store, taking with you a crane box. The problem may also lie in the wear of the gasket: it presses the plates, blocking the water. If the tap is dripping, you can build up the gasket by gluing on top of a layer of rubber or winding a few turns of electrical tape. Don't forget to make water holes! Replacing the valve of the axle box in the mixer is performed if Maintenance impossible.
HELPFUL INFORMATION: Why does hot water flow from a cold tap?
Replacement
How to change a faucet in the kitchen? All the above models of kitchen faucets change according to the same scheme: remove the fastening bolts connecting the mixer and the sink, disconnect the flexible hoses. Then you can completely remove the sink, check the condition of the hoses and siphon. After that, a new tap is installed: we hang the sink in place, connect the mixer with a flexible hose, install the fasteners.
It is not difficult to repair the mixer, the main thing is to carefully perform all actions, and not to apply excessive force when tightening the threaded connections.
A faucet in the kitchen is leaking - this is a problem that sooner or later everyone may face, regardless of the quality and reliability of the installed plumbing equipment. A malfunctioning tap not only causes irritation, but also leads to excessive water consumption. Therefore, the leak must be eliminated as soon as possible. For this, it is not necessary to seek the help of a specialist. You can also repair the faucet yourself, following the instructions below.
A leak from a tap is not always visually detectable. Sometimes we may not know that there is a similar problem. Therefore, it is important to know the main signs of a kitchen malfunction:
- The appearance of dampness near, the formation of small puddles. Most do not pay attention to this, attributing it to their carelessness while using the sink. However, it is dampness that is an alarming signal and may indicate depressurization of flexible hose connections;
- The water does not flow from the tap, but from under the lever or valves. Most often this happens due to the failure of the valve of the axle box or cartridge;
- Weak water pressure and difficulty in adjusting the temperature may indicate clogged supply hoses or poor permeability of common house pipes.
And of course, the most important sign of a breakdown is constantly dripping water from the tap, even in the closed position. 
Types of kitchen mixers, their design
Before proceeding directly to the repair itself, it is necessary to determine the type of kitchen faucet. He can be:
- single-lever - a crane model in which the water pressure and temperature are regulated by just one turn of the knob. The main advantage is the convenience of such a device, which is why it is very popular. Water mixing takes place in a special cartridge or in a hollow ball with three holes, depending on the design of such equipment. Most often, a rubber gasket or a cartridge fails in such a crane;
- a faucet with two valves is a classic model of a kitchen faucet that attracts buyers with an affordable price and ease of repair. But, as practice shows, it breaks more often than the previous type. A two-valve faucet consists of a body that is attached to an opening in a kitchen sink, a spout with an aerator at the end, two valve boxes or valve heads and the valves themselves.
Attention! The main reason for the breakdown of such a mixer can be considered a passing rubber gasket.
The main stages of repair of a single-lever mixer
Before proceeding with the repair of such a tap, it is necessary to shut off all cold and hot water supply valves in advance, as well as drain the remaining water in order to avoid leakage and flooding of neighbors. After that, you can proceed to disassembling the plumbing equipment. For this you need:
Sometimes a crack in the valve body leads to a leak. Such damage can be easily identified visually. This does not even require disassembling the equipment. If the crack is minor, you can use a sealant, otherwise you will have to completely change the mixer.
Attention! Another possible cause of a leak is a clogged aerator. To eliminate this, you just need to unscrew the aerator and clean it of debris by rinsing under cold water. If the aerator is found to be unsuitable, then it is replaced.
Step-by-step repair of a two-valve kitchen mixer
What to do if a two-valve valve is leaking on? Everything is the same as with a single-lever mixer: disassemble it, determine the cause of the breakdown and replace the faulty parts with new ones. As a rule, problems with such plumbing equipment arise due to wear of the rubber gasket in the worm gear or loosening of the valve axle box.
Dismantling a kitchen faucet with two valves involves the following steps:
- Dismantling the mixer - for this it is necessary to unscrew the valve body by turning it counterclockwise;
- Removing the old gasket and installing a new one;
- Winding under the thrust edge of the so-called fumlent;
- Assembling a kitchen faucet.
If a problem has arisen with the axle-box crane, then to solve it, you just need to tighten the counter-nut on the body.
In addition to the above reasons for the leakage of the two-valve valve, it is possible to mention the leakage of the stuffing box due to the wear of the packing. In this case, this part is replaced or sealed. To do this, the mixer is disassembled and trying to tighten the stuffing box bushing harder. If the water stops flowing, then the tap can be collected, and if the malfunction remains, then the oil seal is replaced.
Thus, a malfunctioning faucet in the kitchen is not a problem to be feared. Anyone can eliminate it. Repairs should not be difficult, even a beginner can do it.
Kitchen faucet repair: video
The faucet in the kitchen is perhaps one of the most problematic plumbing devices. And this is understandable. It is enough to remember how many times during the day we open and close it, turn the valves, wanting to get water of the required temperature and pressure. The lack of water supply creates an emergency, which means that repairs to the faucet in the kitchen in the event of a breakdown must be done quickly and efficiently.
This article will discuss how to fix a kitchen faucet efficiently and without problems. Even a layman can do repairs with his own hands. At the same time, you will save yourself from the need to call an emergency plumber.
Kitchen faucet repair - when and why is it needed
The appearance of such signs as creaking, crunching when rotating valves or a lever (joystick) indicates that it is necessary to clean or replace worn parts. Further operation of the faulty mixer will lead to its complete destruction and forced.
In any case, if the faucet is leaking in the kitchen sink, timely repair will be much cheaper than replacing it.
The device of the main types of kitchen faucets
Depending on the design of the locking mechanisms, taps are divided into two-valve and single-lever (hinged).
Two-valve household taps have been known for a very long time. In fact, these are two single-valve taps, the spouts of which are combined into one. The design changes mainly affected the locking devices. In recent decades, 90-degree (quarter-circle) travel valves have been added to the traditional screw stroke valve.
The device of a single-lever kitchen mixer compares favorably with two-valve ones by the presence of a single hinged one. This design allows horizontal movement of the lever (joystick) to regulate the flow of hot and cold water into the mixing chamber, and vertical - the flow rate.
A faucet is leaking in the kitchen - how to fix it yourself
All types of kitchen faucets are designed to be easy to disassemble and assemble. Therefore, almost everyone can handle the repair of a faucet in the kitchen with their own hands. This does not require special professional skills, special equipment and tools.
Before proceeding with the repair, you need to determine the cause of the malfunction. For diagnostics, it is not necessary to dismantle the mixer completely. It is enough to remove the locking mechanism from the housing for visual assessment. This will determine the whole course of further actions.
If serious damage is found in the case, it can no longer be repaired. A complete device replacement will be required. All removable parts, if they cannot be restored, are easily replaced with similar ones.
Important! Before starting to disassemble the mixer, turn off the hot and cold water supply taps. As a rule, inlet risers are equipped with separate shut-off valves. Otherwise, you will have to shut off the taps of the main connection.
Single Lever Kitchen Faucet Repair
The service life of a faucet directly depends on the quality of tap water. First of all, the hinge of the locking mechanism and its chamber in the mixer body suffer from excessively hard water. These parts have a very smooth surface. Any contamination will reduce their tightness or even disable them.
How to repair a single handle kitchen faucet? In most cases, repairs are reduced to cleaning the hinge parts from all kinds of deposits. But to replace worn out or irreparable parts, you have to purchase a repair kit.
Disassembly begins by removing the decorative plug with the hot and cold water symbols, behind which is the lever securing screw. Having correctly determined the type of screw head, unscrew it with a suitable tool. Then carefully, in a strictly vertical direction, remove the handle. Next, use an adjustable wrench to unscrew the decorative washer-casing and the clamping nut. Carefully, without much effort, pulling the stem, remove the entire cartridge in the assembly.
Repair of a kitchen faucet with a cartridge begins with an inspection of the faucet body. Limescale, rust and other contaminants must be removed taking care not to scratch or chip. Particular attention should be paid to the places of the hinge joints, which provide smooth free rotation of the handle (joystick) and the spout spout.
Important! To reduce the cost of the product, most of the threaded parts are made from brittle metal alloys. Therefore, during repairs, it is recommended to be extremely careful: first place the contaminated parts of the structure for several hours in warm water with the addition of cleaning agents, and use a special brass brush for cleaning.
After making sure that the mixer body is in working order, proceed to further diagnostics. It is important to determine the integrity of the plastic component of the cartridge, the condition of the rubber valves with springs, O-rings and gaskets.
If necessary, carefully remove scale, rust and other impurities contained in the water. If there is damage, either the entire cartridge in the assembly is replaced, or individual parts that cannot be restored.
Repair of a two-valve mixer
As mentioned above, a two-valve kitchen mixer tap combines two identical screw taps in a design. The difference is that the hot water tap is more susceptible to temperature influences and characteristic deposits, which accelerate the wear of parts.
Disassembly also begins with the removal of the valve or flywheel. To do this, remove the decorative plug with a flat, sharp object (for example, a screwdriver or knife). Then remove the fastening screw and valve. Carefully unscrew the axle box with an appropriate wrench or adjustable wrench.
For cranes equipped with 90-degree stroke cranes, pay attention to the condition of the spool. Made with plastics or ceramics, these parts often fail as a result of unnecessary effort. If cracks are found in the valve body, then the entire valve box will have to be replaced.
Important! All crane axle boxes are unified and interchangeable, regardless of design features... You need to pay attention to the type of threaded connection and the size of the product. The easiest way when buying is to take with you a failed part for a sample.
Mixers with outdated screw valves are disassembled in the same way as in the cases described above. The difference is that the axle box of the crane is disassembled into separate parts: the gland nut, the worm spindle and the valve. It is important to take into account the condition of the stuffing box winding, which is replaced if necessary.
Other structural parts will have to be replaced if they are thoroughly worn out.... For example, worm threads on a spindle often wear out. As a result, the rubber pad of the valve does not press against the seat and the valve leaks. In such cases, it is necessary to replace the entire crane axle box.
The condition of the rubber part of the valve and the recess of the seat in the body must be paid attention to in all types of mixers. If dirt is found, the valve seat must be thoroughly cleaned. It is also important to be careful here, since any mechanical damage will reduce the tightness of the valve.
They also clean rubber parts. However, deformed and insufficiently elastic ones must be replaced.
Assemble the mixer in the reverse order of disassembly. When tightening threaded connections, do not use excessive force - this can lead to cracks in the body, disruption of thread turns, and damage to rubber seals. Insufficient effort is fraught with leakage. In addition, the crane can unwind inadvertently during operation.
Other breakdowns and prevention of malfunctions
Among the malfunctions of household faucets, damage to flexible supply lines, leakage of fittings, cracks and even ruptures of the vinyl tube are often found. Often, the fastening screws are loosened from the efforts applied to the mixer. In both cases, if the faucet leaks in the kitchen sink, urgent repair is required.
Everything is complicated by the fact that such breakdowns are not always immediately noticeable. It may take a long time for the leak to be detected. Sometimes at the "signal" of the neighbors below.
Such a repair of a kitchen faucet mixer is also easy to do with your own hands. Flexible connections of the required length and configuration of the nozzles in the range are available in specialized trade enterprises. They are easy to purchase and replace yourself.
In order not to lead to unpleasant and costly consequences, you need to follow simple rules of prevention.
For example, if you install filters for coarse and fine water purification, the formation of deposits on the mixer parts will be reduced. This will extend its service life and provide the family with environmentally friendly drinking water.
Periodically, you need to check the reliability of the fixture of the mixer, if necessary, tighten all threaded connections. Eliminate the impact on the mixer of any foreign objects that can cause mechanical damage. Rotate the valve valves or the swing arm with smooth, effortless movements.
Conclusion
Even when buying a plumbing device, it is better to give preference to a more expensive but reliable product that does not need frequent repairs and quick replacement. It is important to carefully read the instructions for using the device, when disassembling and assembling the product, strictly follow the attached instructions.
If the crane breaks down, it is important to carefully disassemble it, following the instructions in the article, remove lime deposits or, if necessary, replace the parts with new ones.
How to make DIY mixer repairs in the kitchen
When you buy a new faucet for your kitchen, then you can use it for a certain amount of time without any problems. However, one day you found that it began to leak water, and at night water began to drip even with the tap tightly closed. Naturally, a broken kitchen faucet needs repairing.
You can invite a plumber who will quickly repair the mixer in the kitchen, but his work will cost you about the cost of a new unit. And you can do the repair yourself by studying the proposed material and watching video tutorials on this topic on the Internet.
How to understand that a mixer needs repair
As a rule, each of us opens and closes the water in the kitchen several dozen times during the day, but almost no one counts these times. Such movements are a very heavy load on the mixer, which on average is designed for a million such movements, but with frequent opening and closing, it is also prone to breakage.
The need to repair the mixer appears with the following signals:
- water drips from under the handle of the structure;
- water drips from the nose of the spout, even the valves or the lever are closed;
- when the crane was operating, a buzzing sound began to appear in the pipes;
- the stream of water has become thinner;
- with a single-lever mixer, the handle began to move with jerks;
- the lever is extremely difficult to fix in a certain position;
- water begins to flow even from under the union nut of the spout;
- if the mixer is valve type, water flows from under the flywheel.
When you find at least one such "symptom", then you need to urgently take action so as not to provoke more serious problems with the mixer. You will learn how to repair the mixer with your own hands in the kitchen below in as much detail as possible.
Preparatory work
If you firmly decided to take on the repair of the mixer with your own hands, you must first prepare for it. Preparatory activities will be as follows:
A set of tools will be required as follows:
When everything is ready, you can start repairing. Renovation work will differ depending on the type of fault and the type of mixer.
Causes of breakage of single-lever mixers
The most common type of kitchen faucet is single lever. Before starting the repair, carefully examine it to find out why the leak happened. Typically, the reasons can be as follows:
- damage to the case;
- deterioration of the inner lining.
If the body is damaged, the resulting crack can be repaired with a compound such as cold welding, but this measure will only be temporary. If the flow is repeated, the mixer will need to be changed. And if you did not find any cracks during inspection, then you need to change the gasket.
To change it with your own hands, you need to remove the tap itself. Take a screwdriver and use it to lift and remove the decorative cover of the structure, if there was one on it. If at the same time it is made of a fragile material, you need to be extremely careful. Next, unscrew the nuts on the body and remove the mixer. We remove the old gasket and put on a new one, then screw the fasteners and put the tap back.
Such a repair is suitable for wall faucets that are connected directly to the pipes, but if they are built into the sink, then there will be much more work.
For models that are built into the sink, the ceramic or metal cartridge very often wears out. When it wears out, water constantly drips, and if measures are not taken in time, then the intensity of its heat will only increase. To make repairs with your own hands in this case, you need to follow these steps:
- pry the cover on the lever and lift it up to gain access to the fastening screw;
- unscrew the screw and remove the lever, then unscrew the fasteners on the cartridge;
- unscrew the cartridge from the thread, but do not damage it;
- change it to a new one;
- reassemble the structure, observing the reverse order of actions.
The old cartridge can no longer be repaired, it can only be replaced, especially since the price of a new product is not too high.
Repair of a mixer with two valves
If the mixer in the kitchen flows too intensively, then do it yourself repairs should be done only after the water is shut off. However, this does not happen very often, so we will consider in detail other situations, for example, how to replace the rubber gasket with your own hands in a two-valve mixer in the kitchen.
Rubber grommets for kitchen faucets with two valves are key consumables. They wear out and deform due to the following reasons and factors:
- temperature exposure;
- the ingress of small particles in the water on the gasket.
For repair and replacement, you will need a new gasket, as well as a screwdriver and adjustable wrench.
The repair progress is as follows:
- turn off the water. Make sure that it is closed by opening both valves, at the same time drain the remaining water from the pipes;
- leave the valves open to reduce the stress on the internal parts of the valves;
- disassemble the valves - pry the decorative red and blue caps on their flywheels, then use a screwdriver to unscrew the screw inside the flywheel;
- unscrew the fastening nut with an adjustable wrench;
- we unscrew the crane-axle box and remove the gasket. If it is fixed with special nuts, then first remove them, and after replacement put them back;
- rinse all parts of the valves in a bucket of water to clean them from dirt and rust;
- install a new gasket and assemble the structure.
How to seal the oil seal with your own hands
Very often, a valve mixer in the kitchen becomes unusable due to a gland leakage, when the gland ring on the body of the valve box wears out. To check this and understand what type of repair is suitable, disassemble the valve as indicated above, remove the valve box and examine the oil seal. If there are even slight abrasions or burrs on it, then the stuffing box ring needs to be changed. It is sold in any hardware store or market. To purchase the required model, take with you a crane box and an old oil seal. Very often this or that model is suitable exclusively for a particular mixer.
When installing the ring in the groove, make sure that it is seated correctly. Tighten the valve box and the flywheel, and then turn the valve for water supply and open it. See if water is flowing now. If there are no leaks, then the repair was done correctly.
How to repair a ball faucet in a kitchen
The ball-type design is the most advanced in terms of operation and internal structure. You can adjust the temperature and water pressure with just one lever movement. This design includes a hollow stainless steel ball with three holes:
- one hole for cold water;
- the second is for hot;
- the third is to discharge the mixed water into the spout.
The ball slides with fluorinated rubber seats. All structural elements are contained in a cartridge sleeve, which is located in the mixer.
Such a mixer may need to be repaired due to common debris or rust particles that get into the hole between the seats and the ball. In such cases, it needs to be repaired urgently. To save yourself from repairs, it is better to put special cleaning filters on the pipes with hot and cold water.
Also, a ball mixer in the kitchen can break due to worn gaskets and seats.
What do you need for DIY repair
Repair of the ball assembly includes the use of such working tools, some of which are included in the product package:
Now you need to properly disassemble the crane itself:
- unscrew the special screw in the lever with a hexagon and remove the handle;
- using pipe pliers, unscrew the cap, then first remove it, then the cam, then its washer and the ball itself;
- take a flathead screwdriver and pull the seats out of the holes along with the springs;
- to remove the spout, turn it upward so that the seals can be removed and lubricated or replaced.
- Of course, before starting the repair, shut off the water on the riser so as not to have unnecessary problems and not to flood the kitchen with water.
Useful tips for renovating kitchen faucets
Each time, taking on one or another plumbing repair with your own hands, you are exposed to unpleasant consequences that may arise due to ignorance of certain nuances of the work. Experienced professionals share with you these useful tips that will save you from the consequences and save time:
- buy all the repair parts well in advance;
- Only carry out repair work during the day when the shops are open. So you can always run out and buy the necessary parts or tools;
- if you are unscrewing nickel-plated or chrome-plated elements, wrap the tools so that the surface is not scratched;
- When removing the cap on the ball mixer, be careful as it can be strongly pressed against the body due to salt deposits. Make sure that the flexible leads at the bottom of the structure do not come off.
So, we introduced you to the types of malfunctions of certain mixers, which you can get rid of through DIY repair. In addition, you have gained a basic knowledge of how to replace damaged parts of the structure with new ones and what tools you need to use for this.
If everything is done correctly, then your taps in the kitchen will not leak, and everything will work as if by notes.
Donskikh Vladimir Alexandrovich
How to repair a DIY single-lever kitchen faucet
One of the main and frequently used devices will, of course, be the kitchen faucet. And in connection with its need, it also falls into disrepair. And today I will tell you how to repair a kitchen faucet with your own hands. There are tons of videos on this topic on the Internet, but this article will describe everything in more detail. Recently, housewives are increasingly choosing a lever mechanism rather than a conventional one. Such cranes are usually durable, due to the absence of rubbing parts, also a stylish appearance, smooth lines and a variety of colors do not make it worse.
Single-lever mixers are of 2 types:
The principle of operation and the device of a single-lever mixer with ceramic cartridges is shown in the photo. 
The central part, which is located between the lever and the tube, is called the mixer body, the most important part is hidden in it - the cartridge, it is responsible for mixing the water and is often the main source of problems. A mixer handle is installed on the body. A swivel spout is located at the point of attachment of the tap; various rings provide its water resistance and mobility. There is an aerator at the end of the tap, but we'll come back to that later.
There are also ball mixers. Their device looks something like this: 
They also have a "torso", but inside they have a ball, which is actually responsible for regulating water. Under the handle, which is fixed with a screw, there is a metal cap that holds the entire valve mechanism inside. There is also a figured washer inside, which serves as a regulator of the angle of rotation of the lever, and it fits snugly to the ball itself. The bottom is not much different from the previous mixer.
Mounting types:
Many craftsmen advise removing the entire sink, which will make it easier to work with the mixer, at the same time it will be possible to update the sealant. If you nevertheless conceive overhaul mixer, it is worth purchasing a set of hoses in a flexible metal braid, just be sure to check the length. You can also try a rigid reinforced plastic pipe liner. On the one hand, you will need to buy special adapters 
... but on the other hand, this method of eyeliner will last a very, very long time.
Before starting any work, do not forget to shut off cold and hot water, and open the tap to reduce pressure, and of course, drain all liquids. If you will disconnect the pipes, then take a bucket to drain the remaining water. Repairing a single lever mixer is a very neat exercise.
What symptoms will tell you that the problem is in the mixer:
You wind the adapter to the pipe, and only then the hose is put on the adapter itself. Alternatively, remove the sealing gasket between the mixer and the sink.
If the lever functions properly, but there is water near the faucet, try looking for cracks. If you do notice something, change the mixer right away, there is no way to help it.
Step-by-step instructions for repair:
If the problem is the same, but in a ball mixer, then you need to do this:
As a result, repairing a mixer in the kitchen with your own hands is not such a difficult task. Basically, it will take you one day to go through the entire sink. But there is no need to rush. Everything must be done as carefully and carefully as possible. But the easy and understandable design of this mixer corresponds to the ease of its repair.
How to fix a faucet in the kitchen: we fix leaks and other mixer faults with our own hands
In the kitchen, the mixer is used much more actively than in the bathroom, therefore it breaks down much more often. On rare occasions only decision the problem that has arisen is the purchase of a new device and the invitation of a plumber, the rest can be dealt with on your own. Having decided to repair the mixer in the kitchen with your own hands, you will save on the services of a specialist and gain considerable experience. You just need to arm yourself with theory and tools.
The kitchen faucet needs repair if you observe the following "symptoms":
- Leakage from under the nut at the water outlet, from under the handle (lever) or faucet valves in working order.
- The correct movement of the lever or valves is violated (seize, scroll, do not fix in the desired position, etc.).
- At normal water pressure in the system, the jet is not powerful enough.
- Water drips from a closed tap.
Please note: the detected problem must be resolved as quickly as possible! This will extend the life of the mixer and protect yourself and your neighbors from flooding, saving cash, time and nerves.
Most of the questions are caused by the problem of the leakage of the crane. And here you need to know the "enemy" not only by sight, but also from within. It is about the device of mixers.
Delicacies such as thermostatic and touchless faucets are great for bathrooms. In the kitchen, more practical models are fighting for a place in the sun - traditional two-valve and single-lever. Common elements for them are: body, spout (spout), aerator, gaskets. Otherwise, they differ significantly.
Taps familiar to the eye with two valves are quite simple. Under the flywheel, which you turn during the operation of the structure, there is a crane-axle box - its locking element. Below is the device of such a kitchen faucet in pictures.
Axleboxes in a two-valve mixer (sectional view)
In products where several turns of the flywheel are required to supply or shut off water, worm axle boxes are installed. Their work is based on rotational-translational movements. The more you unscrew the valve, the more the axle box gasket will move away from the so-called “saddle”. The consequence of this is the flow of water into the inner cavity of the mixer, and then into its spout (spout).
Worm gear valve for mixer
In models where it is enough to make only half a turn to supply water, axle boxes with ceramic plates are installed. When you open the tap, the holes in them coincide, and water enters the spout.
Crane axle boxes with ceramic plates
The cost of crane boxes is low, they are always available in plumbing stores, and their replacement is extremely simple.
More modern and practical are the models of valves with one regulating pressure and temperature handle (lever). Mixing of water in them is carried out in a hollow ball with three holes or in a special cartridge.
The mixing element in the ball models has three openings, two of which are inlet holes for hot and cold water entering this miniature container, and one outlet for supplying water of a given temperature to the sink.
Ball mixer device
The ball itself is located on two "saddles" made of rubber. Its displacement relative to them, carried out by the movement of the lever, and allows you to adjust the pressure, the temperature of the poured water. At the top, the ball is fixed with a sealing collar and a lock nut.
Schematic device of a spherical model of a kitchen faucet
The principle of operation of a mixer with a cartridge that replaces the ball is similar. Moreover, their internal structure is fundamentally different. In the presence of all the same three functional holes, but inside the cartridge is not a cavity, but special discs made of cermet. Due to their displacement relative to each other and the degree of overlap of the supply holes when the lever is turned, the water supply is adjusted.
Replaceable ceramic cartridges
To repair a kitchen faucet you will need:
- knife with a sharp end;
- hex and adjustable wrench;
- screwdrivers;
- a new cartridge, valve box, rubber gasket, etc. - depends on which part you will be changing;
- WD40 is a technical aerosol that will come in handy if the parts are "stuck" to each other. However, you can get by with the traditional tapping of a hammer on a screwdriver, but there is a great risk of damage to the mixer.
Regardless of which faucet you have installed, before starting the repair, you must shut off the water supply in the system and drain the remaining water into a sink or a separate container. To do this, just open the tap. Then you can start repairing it, taking into account the design features.
To repair a single lever mixer, you need a hex wrench
The main principles of repair are sequence of actions and accuracy.
Removing the decorative cover
It is important! Do not tighten the nuts too tight, as this can lead to deformation. sealing gum and disruption of the normal operation of the mixer.
Installing a new cartridge
To extend the life of the product and ensure the smooth running of its rubbing parts, you can use a special silicone grease.
Removing the mixer flywheel
What to do if a two-valve faucet is dripping in your kitchen? Almost everything is the same.
- Hook and remove the decorative plug on the valve flywheel.
- Use a screwdriver to unscrew the screw securing the flywheel.
- Take off the flywheel. There will be a crane box in front of you.
- Unscrew it counterclockwise and examine it.
- If this is a worm-type axle box and its gasket is damaged, replace it separately - buy it in a store (it costs a penny) or cut it out of rubber of a suitable thickness yourself. The axle box with ceramic discs is completely changed.
- Assemble the crane in reverse order.
General scheme of work on repair of the mixer
Everything is as simple as possible and slightly resembles a constructor. But faucet leaks are not the only problem that you may encounter while using it in the kitchen.
The water quality in many cities is poor, so over time, the aerator in the tap can become dirty. On the inside, hard deposits "build up" on it. When there are too many of them, the pressure and quality of the water deteriorate significantly. The solution to the problem is to replace the aerator. Ideally, it can be easily unscrewed with an adjustable wrench, but for a stuck part, you will need WD40 or tapping with a hammer.
It is important! Perform all work carefully, otherwise the mixer will have to be changed completely.
The tap is leaking, and during the inspection did you find a crack in it? Then it's time to go for a new product. For a short time, silicone sealant can become an assistant.
You can extend the life of the mixer if you install a water filter and use the device carefully, without turning the valves too tight or moving the lever suddenly and all the way.
Now you know what to do if the faucet is dripping in the kitchen. In most cases, the considered repair schemes are also suitable for eliminating breakdowns of faucets in bathrooms. This is a good saving for the family budget. But if you are not confident in your abilities or you simply do not have time, a competent plumber will do all the work in a matter of minutes.
