Mixer tap systems are a wonderful invention that use a single tap to control both hot and cold water flow and temperature. Mixer taps are typically easy to use and fairly low-maintenance, however, they are slightly different from the standard taps and therefore require specialised plumbing skills for servicing and installation.
A distinctive feature of the mixer tap is its safety design which allows the user to control the temperature of the water while preventing scalding or freezing, unlike the standard hot and cold taps where you burn or freeze your hands (or both!) trying to fill the bath or sink.
However, it is also this safety feature that makes it extremely sensitive to sedimentation and fluctuating water pressure. When the mixer tap stem gets clogged with sediment or debris, this affects the pressure in the mixer tap body which is pressure-balanced. This change in pressure causes the body to shut down as a safety measure to prevent scalding, effectively shutting off the hot water flow.
Another common problem is the ceramic disc cartridge that controls the flow and temperature of the water. Over time, the cartridge tends to deteriorate and break due to general wear and tear, causing the mixer tap to leak.
Since mixer taps are highly sensitive to water pressure, it is crucial to ensure that the water pressure is within the right levels before installing new mixer taps. Using high-quality parts is also particularly important for mixer tap repairs to ensure long-term performance.
If you need a new basin, shower, bath or kitchen mixer tap installed, or just need servicing for your existing mixer tap systems, call The Plumber Next Door at 0422 087 065 for a free quote!