An air lock in your taps can prevent water from flowing properly. One common method to resolve this involves using a hose to create pressure and dislodge the air. Here's how you can try it:
Steps to Remove an Air Lock Using a Hose:
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Turn on the Hot Water Supply: Ensure your main hot water supply valve is open. This is essential for the process to work effectively.
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Connect Hot and Cold Taps with a Hose:
- Choose a sink where you can access both the hot and cold water taps easily.
- Securely connect a hosepipe to the outlet of the hot water tap and the cold water tap. Use tape (such as duct tape or plumbing tape) to ensure a tight seal and prevent leaks. The goal is to create a closed system between the two taps.
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Secure Hose Ends: Double-check that the open ends of the hosepipe are securely attached to the taps and properly sealed with tape. Any leaks will reduce the pressure needed to clear the airlock.
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Turn on the Hot Water Tap: Slowly turn on the hot water tap. The pressure from the hot water will flow through the hose and into the cold water pipe, hopefully dislodging the airlock. Let the water run for a few minutes.
Important Considerations:
- Safety First: Be careful when working with water and tools. Avoid creating slip hazards.
- Water Pressure: Monitor the water pressure; if it seems excessively high, reduce the flow to prevent damage to your pipes.
- Alternative Methods: If this method doesn't work, you might need to consult a plumber. Other techniques might involve checking for blockages in the pipes or using a more specialized pressure pump.
- Air Lock Location: This method works best when the air lock is relatively close to the taps. If the air lock is further down the plumbing system, it might require a different approach.
By following these steps carefully, you should be able to successfully remove the air lock and restore normal water flow to your taps.
