DIY Step-by-Step Instructions for Repairing a Ball Mixer

The blender is one of the household items that due to frequent use is subject to increased stress. In this regard, this type of plumbing fails early. And due to the fact that breakdowns of such devices are typical, you can repair ball mixers yourself, without the involvement of third-party craftsmen. But before starting work, you need to decide on the design features of the plumbing.

Main types and design

Manufacturers use several classifications of mixers. At the same time, single-lever devices of this type practically do not differ from each other.

Regardless of the model chosen, each ball mixer is made up of the following elements:

1. Rotating handle. Thanks to this part, the flow and temperature of the water are regulated. The handle is fixed to the body with a screw, which is closed with a decorative strip.
2. Cap. This part attaches the valve train to the body.
3. "Cam". Most often, a plastic part, with which the position of the ball-shaped element is adjusted. This closes/opens the cold and hot water flows. The "cam" is completed with rubber seals.
4. Body and nut that secure the faucet to the sink.

The spherical element is non-separable. This part provides three holes, two of which provide the supply of cold and hot water, and through the third flow enters the faucet.

The spherical element is mounted on rubberized seats, located near the point of attachment of the mixer to the sink.

All welded

It is impossible to eliminate failures of fully welded models. Such cranes are produced in a non-separable body. Therefore, in the event of a malfunction, these mixers must be replaced with new ones.

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Folding

A more common type of plumbing fixtures. These cranes, due to the design features, do not tolerate worse long-term operation, but can be repaired.

How to fix breakdowns with your own hands

To repair a faulty ball valve, you will need:

• adjustable wrench;
• hexagon;
• pliers;
• flat screwdriver.

In addition, it is recommended to purchase rubber seals in advance. These components wear out quickly, which is the main problem with ball mixers. Before starting work, it is necessary to turn off the water supply and empty the rest of the tap. During repairs, you need to monitor the installation of the ball mixer components. Often, after the procedure is completed, the cartridge begins to malfunction. This is because the rubber seal on the bottom interferes with the normal flow of water.

If this problem is identified, you will need to disassemble the product again and place the parts in the correct order.

Do not force when tightening nuts and bolts. If the parts are pinched, the handle will be difficult to walk. And in extreme cases, this accelerates the wear of internal components, and cracks appear on the metal case.

Leak

Leakage is the most common problem with faucets. This failure is due to abrasion of the rubber seals. This happens for natural reasons or due to the penetration of small particles into the rotation mechanism. In the latter case, damage to the ball is possible, which leads to similar consequences.

To repair the ball valve, you will first need to determine the cause of the leak. Before dismantling the mixer, it is recommended to tighten the structure along the thread with an adjustable wrench. If this procedure does not bring the desired result, then you will have to disassemble the crane.

After completing this procedure, you need to clean the parts from plaque and small particles. If the ball fails or the seals are worn, these parts must be replaced with new ones. The crane is assembled in the reverse order.

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Crack

If a crack appears, you will need to replace the part. But if the defect is small, cold welding can correct the situation. This tool should be applied to a previously degreased surface (the material is treated with acetone or alcohol). Cold welding has a temporary effect. Therefore, you will have to buy a new crane later.

Valve problems

Valve problems occur due to component failures or blockages. To repair the handle, it must be removed following the algorithm above and the internal parts cleaned. After that, you need to either replace the faulty components or tighten the valve with an adjustable wrench.

Reduced water pressure

This problem occurs for two reasons: low drop in the water supply system or clogged pipes. Before dismantling the mixer, it is necessary to open the taps in other rooms.If the pressure there is low, then the situation can be corrected by calling the housing services and the municipal services. Otherwise, you will have to disassemble the mixer and clean the parts through which the water flows. It is also necessary to unscrew and pour into the hoses a product which dissolves the blockages.

Inability to adjust the temperature

If the temperature of the jet changes chaotically, then the cause of the malfunction should be sought in the lower part of the mixer. This problem occurs due to the appearance of a gap between the ball and the rubber seats. It is impossible to eliminate such a malfunction with improvised means (putty or other). In this case, you will need to replace the ball cartridge and rubber seals.

A sharp change in water temperature is due to poor water quality, which contains many impurities or is characterized by increased hardness. Therefore, before buying a mixer, it is necessary to study the passport of the mixer. Manufacturers usually indicate the recommended water hardness. In addition, in order to avoid early failure of the valves, a filter should be installed.

Noise during operation

The noise that occurs immediately after opening the valve is typical of old faucets. The causes of this problem lie in worn seals. Over time, the rubber begins to move away from the bed under the influence of drafts and water. As a result, noise is generated due to the vibration of the joints.

Several methods are used to solve this problem. It's easier and cheaper to replace the gaskets with ones that will fit the base more tightly. You can also install a specialized filter or reduce the water pressure after opening the valve.

Features of the repair of a single-lever mixer

Due to the fact that single-lever models are structurally similar to each other, plumbing fixtures are repaired according to one algorithm. To eliminate the problems that have arisen, you will need to disassemble the crane, for which you need to perform the following steps:

1. Using a knife or flathead screwdriver, remove the plastic plug on the handle and loosen the screw. If necessary, the latter should be treated with WD-40.
2. Unscrew the decorative metal nozzle. No effort is recommended during this procedure. Otherwise, scratches or other defects will appear on the attachment.
3. Unscrew the hex nut with an adjustable wrench and remove the ball mechanism.

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If water flows from the tap at low pressure, it is recommended to first check the condition of the grid located in the drain hole. This part is quickly clogged by the small particles contained in the water. For some faucet models, to clean the mesh, simply remove the decorative strip attached to the drain hole. To do this, use a wrench.

Rules of maintenance and operation

Ball mixers have no special maintenance requirements. If the faucet is installed in an apartment where water with a high content of impurities is supplied, it is recommended to install a filter on the pipes. The mixer during operation should not be subjected to mechanical stress (beat, shake the valve, etc.). Rubber seals, on average, are changed every 6-12 months. The rest of the operating rules should be clarified in the instructions, since some models of mixers have special maintenance requirements.