My Franke Ascona tap is leaking from the base of the spout. What do I need to replace?
If your Franke Ascona tap is leaking where the spout meets the main body of the tap, the most common cause is worn or damaged spout O-rings rather than a faulty valve.
Replacing the spout seals will usually stop the leak. If the spout is damaged, corroded or has developed pinholes, the complete spout should be replaced.
How do I remove the Franke Ascona tap spout?
Using the correct 2.5mm Allen key, loosen the grub screw at the rear of the tap body.
Once the grub screw has been loosened, carefully pull the spout upwards while gently twisting it from side to side. If the spout has not been removed for some time, it may be tight due to limescale, debris or worn seals.
Once removed, you can replace the O-rings or fit a replacement spout before reassembling the tap. You can watch our video here for a step-by-step guide.
My Franke Ascona tap is dripping from the top of spout or around the handles. What is the problem?
If your Franke Ascona tap is dripping from the top of the spout or leaking around the handles when the tap is turned off, this is usually caused by a worn or damaged valve/cartridge.
Replacing the faulty valve will normally restore the tap to full working order.
How do I remove the Franke Ascona tap handle?
Loosen the grub screw underneath the handle using a 2mm Allen key and carefully lift the handle away.
Once the handle has been removed, the ceramic valve is exposed.
How do I know which Franke Ascona valve I need?
Franke Ascona taps have been fitted with two versions of the SMR mini valve:
- Older 2-flat sided valve
- Newer 6-sided hex valve
The easiest way to identify your valve is to remove the handle and valve cover, then check the shape of the valve body. The newer 6-sided hex valve is compatible with all versions of the Franke Ascona tap, although we still stock the older 2-flat sided valve for customers who prefer a like-for-like replacement.
If you are unsure whether the hot or cold valve is faulty, don't rely on the temperature of the drip, as hot and cold water can mix inside the tap body.
To identify the faulty valve, isolate one water supply at a time and test the tap. If the tap continues to drip with one supply isolated, the valve on the opposite side is likely to be the cause.
Once you have identified the faulty valve, simply replace the corresponding hot or cold valve. If both valves are of a similar age, it's often worthwhile replacing them as a pair.
How do I remove the older 2-flat sided SMR valve?
The older SMR valve has two flat sides instead of a standard hexagonal nut.
This type of valve is best removed using a Valve Removal Tool, which grips both flat sides evenly and helps prevent damage to the tap body.
Avoid using adjustable pliers or grips, as these can round off the valve and make removal more difficult.
How do I remove the newer 6-sided hex SMR valve?
The newer SMR valve can be removed using a correctly sized deep socket, box spanner or adjustable spanner.
Ensure the tool is fully seated on the valve before turning it anti-clockwise to remove it.
What tools do I need to replace my Franke Ascona valve?
Most repairs require:
- 2 mm or 2.5 mm Allen key
- Adjustable spanner or deep socket
- Valve Removal Tool (for older 2-flat sided valves)
Should I replace both valves?
If your Franke Ascona tap is several years old, we recommend replacing both the hot and cold valves at the same time, as the second valve is often close to the end of its service life.
My Franke Ascona tap is still dripping after I've replaced the valve. Why?
If the tap continues to drip after fitting a new valve, check that:
- The replacement valve is the correct hot or cold version.
- The valve is fully tightened and correctly seated.
- The opposite valve is not allowing water to pass.
- The tap body has not been damaged or excessively worn.
I'm not sure which spare part I need. Can you help?
Yes. If you're unsure which Franke Ascona spare part you need, send us a few clear photos of your tap and the existing part using our Identify My Tap service. We'll help you identify the correct replacement before you order.
