We have a whale mixer tap in our kitchen sink. During the winter the spout has been left overhanging the sink. when i am trying to move the spout to left or right the whole body of the tap seems to be moving at the base rather than just the spout. Dont want to force it but want to be able to move it so i can put worktop down over sink. Can anyone help?
Try a spray of WD40 at the swivel joint first and let it soak for a few minutes then try to turn it to and fro. If it frees up you may have to get under the worktop to re-tighten the tap base. If it doesn't free up it may be a case of having to replace the whole tap but they're not cheap.
You could try silicone spray first but that's more of a lubrication product for plastics whereas WD40 is better as a releasing agent. Once it's released then the silicone spray would be a good application to avoid it seizing up again in the future.
It would recommend making sure the nut which holds the tap to the worktop is tightened too, it's on the underside of the work top. If the base is moving then the pipes attached to it will be moving and could pull out of their press fit couplings and then you'll end up with a leak which could be more damaging and costly.
Quote: Originally posted by Janice22 on 11/4/2023
Thanks, I have already tightened by hand the nut under the sink which did seem to be a bit loose. Will try lubrication next.
If the nut was loose under the sink it may be just a matter of tightening it up with a a pair of pipe grips first as the tap itself may not be seized up after all. The swivelling tap itself does have a bit of resistance when you spin it one way or the other so the security of tap base needs to be tight.
Amazing family weekend with old steam engines, classic car displays, market stalls, and full catering and bar. And camping on site - Save £25 by booking in advance.
Topic: whale mixer tap
