How to fix tight ceramic disc tap?

cintamate

I have had a ceramic disc tap installed and it is quite tight. When I remove the whole tap and spindle it moves as I would expect it to. Have had the plumber return to fix it but it is very much the same. I have seen on a previous forum ( October 2023 water not turning off after new taps installed) the idea that the Locking nut needs to be removed before seating the spindle. 

EricL

Hello @cintamate 

You are correct, part of the problem is that the locking nut securing the ceramic spindle has been overtightened. This often results in the spindle and ceramic discs getting compressed causing it to be difficult to turn. I propose removing the locking nut and uncompressing the spindle by just a small bit. 

By decompressing the ceramic spindle, it should become easy to turn. Please double check before you reinstall the locking nut and make sure that the spindle itself does not turn while you are re-installing the locking nut.

If you find that getting the balance correct is too difficult, I suggest engaging the services of a seasoned plumber who is familiar with ceramic tapware.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric