Step-by-Step Guide: How to Change a Ceramic Disc Valve in Your Kitchen Tap

Ceramic disc valves are a common feature in modern kitchen taps due to their durability and reliability. We have put this guide together because over time, these valves may wear out or develop leaks, requiring replacement to restore the tap’s functionality.

In this blog post, we will provide you with a comprehensive step-by-step guide on how to change a ceramic disc valve in your kitchen tap, allowing you to tackle this DIY project with confidence.

This is a general post and we can’t guarantee that these exact steps are applicable to every single model of Kitchen Tap available. It is to be used as a guide.

Tools and Materials Needed

• Replacement ceramic disc valve
• Adjustable wrench
• Phillips screwdriver
• Allen key if your handle is secured with a grub screw (sizes 2 or 2.5mm normally required)
• Flathead screwdriver
• Clean cloth or towel
• Bucket or container

Step 1: Shut off the Water Supply

Before starting the valve replacement process, shut off the water supply to the kitchen tap. Locate the shut-off valves under the sink and turn them clockwise to stop the flow of water. Turn on the tap to drain any remaining water in the pipes.

Step 2: Remove the Tap Handle

Use a Phillips screwdriver or allen key to remove the screw on the handle of the tap if your handle is held in by a screw. Gently lift off the handle to reveal the valve cartridge below. Some taps may have a cover cap or decorative piece that needs to be removed before accessing the handle screw. Be careful removing the decorative piece so you don’t scratch it. Sometimes putting a fingernail underneath might pop it off. If your Handle is held in with a grub screw please ensure that you use the correct sized Allen key so that you don’t damage the head of the screw. Usually the grub screws range from 2mm to 2.5mm but it is best to check first.

Step 3: Access the Ceramic Disc Valve

Once the handle is removed, locate the ceramic disc valve cartridge inside the tap body. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen and remove the retaining nut that secures the cartridge in place. You would turn anti-clockwise to loosen the valve. Be cautious not to damage any surrounding components during this process. If you remove the valve and it is wider (larger size) than the replacement valve and you have sourced the correct replacement valve, then it is likely that you have removed the valve bush as well as the valve. If you can separate these two parts then you can re-use the bush with the new valve. If you cannot, then you will have to buy a new bush as well.

Step 4: Replace the Ceramic Disc Valve

Carefully pull out the old ceramic disc valve cartridge from the tap body. Check for any debris that might be left in the chamber and remove this as any debris could get caught up in a new valve and affect the ceramic disc. Take your new replacement ceramic disc valve and insert it into the same position, ensuring it is properly aligned and seated securely. Tighten the retaining nut to hold the new valve in place. You turn clockwise to tighten.

Step 5: Reassemble the Tap

Once the new ceramic disc valve is in position, re-attach the tap handle by securing it with the screw. Make sure the handle is aligned correctly and functions smoothly. Test the handle to ensure it turns the water on and off without any issues.

Step 6: Turn on the Water Supply

With the new ceramic disc valve in place and the tap reassembled, turn the water supply back on by opening the shut-off valves under the sink. Check for any leaks or drips around the tap and handle. If there are no leaks, your valve replacement is successful.

Step 7: Finishing Touches

Wipe down the tap with a clean cloth or towel to remove any dirt or debris from the replacement process.

Step 8: Final Check

Test the functionality of the tap by turning it on and off multiple times. Ensure that the water flows smoothly without any leaks or unusual noises. If everything looks and works as expected, your ceramic disc valve replacement is complete.

Conclusion

Changing a ceramic disc valve in your kitchen tap is a manageable DIY task that can help restore the tap’s performance and prevent water wastage from leaks. By following this step-by-step guide and being attentive to the details, you can successfully replace the ceramic disc valve in your kitchen tap and enjoy a fully functional and efficient water fixture in your home. Remember to take your time, follow the instructions carefully, and seek professional help if needed to ensure a successful valve replacement process.

Where to buy suitable replacement ceramic disc valves?

You will find all the ceramic disc valves to buy here.

We list all our Ceramic Disc Valves by the manufacturers code. All our spare parts are sourced from the manufacturers directly and are genuine replacement parts. The brands that we cover spare parts for are: Avillion, Carron Phoenix, Franke, Howdens, Perrin & Rowe, Rangemaster, San Marco, Teka and Triflow. There are a lot of other brands currently on sale in Ireland and unless the Brand is one of the above then we do not do replacement spare parts. If you have a tap model that is one of the above brands but do not know the replacement part you can contact us using the contact form to your right or send an email to info@hwl.ie and we will assist you.