It could be due to defective washers, worn out threads or an eroded seat. A dripping tap you’ll agree is an intolerable nuisance and not to be encouraged. Besides wastage of precious water, it can leave permanent discoloring stains.

Worn out washers are easy to replace, it you have the right tools and a set of spare washers. The multipurpose spanner and washers (nylon/fibre) are adequate for the job. Use nylon washers for cold-water taps and the fibre washers for hot – water taps.

Don’t loose your sleep over worn outthreads or eroded seats. Change the tap for a new one, which costs no more than Rs: 100/-. However, this contingency should not arise for the first five years atleast.

A provision is made below the wash basin for a bottle-trap to catch heavier particles of dirt and food, so as not to clog the drainage pipes. This bottle-trap accumulates dirt with the passage of time – and your unwitting help – preventing free flow of water, resulting in a ‘chocked’ basin. Just unscrew the bottle trap and do the needful.

A sink cleaner can also do a quick job of clearing obstructions. Place it over the drainage hole of the wash basin, exert your self by pumping hard a few times. Clear ? Well Done !

Wash basins are fitted firmly into the walls and supported with the aid of strong brackets. However, don’t lean on them to test their strength while brushing your teeth, or sit little’ Tinku’ on the edge to pee. They were not designed for that purpose.

Kitchen Sink : Avoid dropping bits of left-overs, vegetable refuse, pieces of paper/plastic, small items of garbage down your sink, unless the plumber is a family friend, whose visits you look forward to.

Commode : This is made of burnt clay material like the wash basin, and is as delicate and can be maintained as attractively. But, it is a lot costlier and bothersome to replace, if damaged. A bewildering variety of brushes and chemicals like Flush Kleen are available in the market for the purpose of cleaning. Take your pick.

Connecting Pipe : If the connecting pipe i.e the channel between the commode and the external drainage pipe should ever develop a problem, it is best to seek professional help, since it involves the handling of delicate joints. A minor problem like a loose joint may be fixed yourself with M-Seal.