Single lever monobloc mixer tap with new cartridge is still leaking (not dripping from spout).

[Phil157]

The tap was leaking from its body (under the 2-way swivel handle; where you access the big brass nut and the cartridge) when turned ON more that a little bit. I've replaced the cartridge and it leaks in same way.
It doesn't drip from the spout nor leak when turned off. So, as far as I can see there's only one 3-hole o-ring seal between cartridge bottom and tap body. If this was leaking I'd expect a drip and leak with tap turned OFF, due to the static water pressure. If not, then I'm flummoxed - leaking through body of cartridge?? - By the way, we've done it on 2 taps with identical results.
Phil.

 

[Welder]

picture?

 

[Burger]

If you’re unable to provide a photo, then next best thing might be make and model?

 

[Phil157]

Here you go, fairly self-explanatory. I guess that taps & china were sourced together; the basin says it's "Roca".

 

[Phil157]

The pics were right way up when I started!

 

[Welder]

Where did you get the new cartridge?

 

[Phil157]

 

[Phil157]

Our block caretaker/handy man. Unused, but not sure when bought.

 

[Burger]

Our block caretaker/handy man. Unused, but not sure when bought.

Might not be correct one for that tap?

 

[Phil157]

I can only tell you that they look identical to the ones that came out and spigots slotted in nicely, they felt properly seated, and diameter is easy fit (not touching the body).
Just looked at old one, it says "MS 2005 oct - 22", I think building was finished in 2008.

 

[Ben-gee]

The three o-rings are hot in, cold in, blend out. So if the blend out one is leaking it can behave as yours is.

Try removing the cartridge and carefully cleaning up the seat then replace cartridge with a smidge of silicone grease on each oring( making sure they are seated properly.)

The shroud looks a bit mullered! That won’t make it leak of course but may affect ease of use.

 

[Phil157]

Aha, yes, I see what you mean, Ben-gee, thanks. I'll have to get organised tomorrow and have another look.

The shroud indicates its age and the amount of limescale that was cementing it tight - it took a makeshift oil-filter wrench sort of arrangement with rubber bands providing friction!

 

[Ben-gee]

I know where you’ve been!

Those shrouds are yet another triumph of form over function, would it kill the “designer” to put us a couple of flats on the thing?

 

[Welder]

Just because a cartridge fits does not mean it works. With 40mm carts like that many have orings on the body. In addition, the end seal orings must be the correct dia.

Many of these carts are only tested to a pathetic 4 bar too and leak internally once that's exceeded.

In this instance, I would personally go back to the manu. For example, Grohe test their carts to 6-8bar.

In addition, over tightening the top nut can distort the cart and cause leakage. Its vital its done up to the correct torque.

 

[Phil157]

Hmm, thanks YDave, where can I find the correct value of torque?
When talking about o-rings I'm not sure of the terminology - like I said the only visible is one (gasket, perhaps) with 3 openings. I'm including a photo with contrast turned right up (an old one complete with limescale) - I hope this doesn't affect your thinking - The new ones came complete with rubber gasket in its recess.