Fixing leaking mixer tap

MickeyD

Have a mixer tap in the kitchen, the cold tap of which seems to either need replacing or a new washer fitted. I don't see any isolation valves on the pipes under the sink (is this normal, maybe I'm missing it?) and the stopcock under the sink won't budge. I'm afraid to try do anything with the stopcock as I live in an apartment and I don't think I have permission to turn off the external stopcock (I don't have the tools or even know where this is anyway) and if something mad happens like the internal stopcock breaks I'll have water everywhere and no way to stop it.

Is there any way to fix a leaky tap like this without disconnecting the mains or would a plumber be the best advice in this situation?

Dtp1979

MickeyD wrote: »

Have a mixer tap in the kitchen, the cold tap of which seems to either need replacing or a new washer fitted. I don't see any isolation valves on the pipes under the sink (is this normal, maybe I'm missing it?) and the stopcock under the sink won't budge. I'm afraid to try do anything with the stopcock as I live in an apartment and I don't think I have permission to turn off the external stopcock (I don't have the tools or even know where this is anyway) and if something mad happens like the internal stopcock breaks I'll have water everywhere and no way to stop it.

Is there any way to fix a leaky tap like this without disconnecting the mains or would a plumber be the best advice in this situation?

Usually when the cold starts dripping, it's time to change the mixer. A stiff shut off valve can usually be easily fixed by an experienced plumber.

MickeyD

Cheers, I was afraid of that!

I had a look outside the apartment today and I see a few sets of covers outside each block that are marked with 'uisce' which I reckon are either external stopcocks for each apartment or water meters (however I got no notification about meters being installed).

Is it ok to try and turn the water off here and if so, would I need any special tools? I'm willing to wait for the plumber to come but I'm worried I might need to turn the water off outside if the tap explodes or something in the meantime!

dodzy

MickeyD wrote: »

Have a mixer tap in the kitchen, the cold tap of which seems to either need replacing or a new washer fitted. I don't see any isolation valves on the pipes under the sink (is this normal, maybe I'm missing it?) and the stopcock under the sink won't budge. I'm afraid to try do anything with the stopcock as I live in an apartment and I don't think I have permission to turn off the external stopcock (I don't have the tools or even know where this is anyway) and if something mad happens like the internal stopcock breaks I'll have water everywhere and no way to stop it.

Is there any way to fix a leaky tap like this without disconnecting the mains or would a plumber be the best advice in this situation?

Common enough for stopcock to cease up over time. Get a wrench to it and turn it clochwise to stop water supply; that'll free it up. Some wd40 would help also. Depending on the tap type, it may just be an insert washer that's required. Very easy fix if so, requiring only one adjustable wrench and a philpps screwdriver. Post a pic of the tap if you can and we can tell you for sure.

MickeyD

I'm afraid to use a wrench on the stopcock as I've heard people say it started leaking when they used force to open it so I'd be happier if I could turn off my supply outside before I tried that.