Why Mixer Taps Fail (And How to Fix or Replace Them in Birmingham)
Mixer taps are a popular choice in modern homes across Birmingham, but like all plumbing fixtures, they can develop faults over time. One of the most common reasons for mixer tap problems is the ceramic disc cartridge inside the tap.
In this blog, we’ll explain why mixer taps fail, how disc cartridges work, what makes repairs difficult, and when it may be better to replace the tap altogether. We’ll also cover the average cost of replacing a tap in Birmingham and the best tap brands for long-term reliability.
How Mixer Taps Work
Unlike old-style washer taps, most modern mixer taps use ceramic disc cartridges. These cartridges control the flow and mix of hot and cold water with a smooth, quarter-turn action.
They are designed to be durable, but over time they can wear out, especially in areas like Birmingham where limescale can build up inside the cartridge.
Why Mixer Tap Disc Cartridges Fail
There are several reasons why your mixer tap might stop working properly:
1. Limescale Buildup
Hard water in Birmingham leads to limescale deposits. These deposits can block the cartridge, making the tap stiff or preventing water from flowing smoothly.
2. Worn Ceramic Discs
Over years of use, the ceramic discs inside the cartridge can wear out. Once they stop sealing correctly, you’ll notice dripping taps or difficulty controlling the temperature.
3. Cheap or Non-Standard Cartridges
Not all mixer taps use the same size or style of cartridge. Many cheaper brands use non-standard parts, which makes it very difficult to track down the correct replacement.
Why It’s Hard to Find the Right Cartridge
One of the biggest frustrations for homeowners (and even plumbers) is that cartridges are not universal. There are hundreds of different sizes and designs, often specific to the brand and even the exact model of tap.
This means:
- It can take a lot of time to identify the correct cartridge.
- Parts may need to be ordered from abroad.
- Some cartridges are discontinued, making repairs impossible.
Because of this, many Birmingham plumbers (including us at Afterglow Heating) will often recommend replacing the entire tap instead of attempting a cartridge repair.
When Replacing the Tap Is the Better Option
If your mixer tap is leaking or difficult to use, replacing the cartridge may sound like the cheaper option. But in many cases, replacing the entire tap is more cost-effective.
Reasons to replace the tap include:
- Difficulty sourcing the correct cartridge.
- High cost of specialist cartridges compared to a new tap.
- Upgrading to a modern, water-efficient tap.
- Peace of mind with a fresh manufacturer’s warranty.
Average Cost to Replace Taps in Birmingham
If you need a plumber in Birmingham to replace your tap, you should expect to pay:
- From £85 + VAT for a standard replacement tap fitting.
- Additional costs for premium taps, specialist fittings, or if new pipework is required.
At Afterglow Heating, we provide transparent pricing and fast service for both planned tap replacements and emergency plumbing in Birmingham.
We cover the whole Birmingham area, including Edgbaston, Harborne, Moseley, Kings Heath, Selly Oak, Erdington, Sutton Coldfield, and Solihull.
Best Tap Brands for Easy Repairs
Some brands are better than others when it comes to sourcing replacement parts. If you want to avoid problems in the future, we recommend:
- Bristan – A UK-based brand with widely available spare parts.
- Grohe – German-engineered taps with excellent reliability.
- Hansgrohe – Another premium brand with good parts support.
- Franke – Known for kitchen taps with readily available cartridges.
Choosing a quality brand means that if your tap ever develops a fault, finding a replacement cartridge will be much easier (and cheaper).
Need a Plumber in Birmingham?
Whether you’re dealing with a leaking mixer tap or a plumbing emergency, Afterglow Heating can help.
We are trusted plumbers in Birmingham covering areas such as Edgbaston, Harborne, Moseley, Kings Heath, Selly Oak, Erdington, Sutton Coldfield, Solihull, and surrounding neighbourhoods.
- Local plumbers with fast response times
- 24/7 emergency plumber services in Birmingham
- Transparent pricing (from £85 + VAT for tap replacements)
- Quality workmanship from experienced engineers
Contact us today for tap repairs, replacements, and emergency plumbing in Birmingham.
Summery
Why do mixer taps drip?
Most mixer taps drip because the ceramic disc cartridge has worn out or limescale has built up inside it.
Can you replace a cartridge in a mixer tap?
Yes, but there are hundreds of different cartridge types. If you can’t identify the exact model, replacing the whole tap may be the better option.
How much does it cost to replace a tap in Birmingham?
Tap replacement starts from £85 + VAT with a professional plumber in Birmingham.
What are the best tap brands in the UK?
Bristan, Grohe, Hansgrohe, and Franke are reliable brands with easily available spare parts.
