Steam tap

Clean or replace the steam tap stem

A PTFE pad on the end of the stem seals the steam. It deforms if the tap is closed hard or hot. This is the owners' method; start by simply closing more gently.

1. Unplug, let it go cold and take the top panel off.
2. Undo the brass nut on the spindle. Owners call it a 16 mm nut.
3. Unscrew the spindle and draw the stem out.
4. Clean the pad and the seat. Cotton buds and descaler reach the seat in place.
5. Grease the o-rings lightly and refit, or fit a new stem.
6. From now on, close the tap only until it resists.

A drip at the wand's ball joint

The wand swivels on a ball joint sealed by one o-ring, 12.1 mm inside by 2.7 mm thick. A drip at the joint, not at the tip, means that o-ring.

Lelit's diagram marks grease on the ball joint (Molykote G-1502) and thread sealant on the threads (Loxeal 55-03). No written procedure for taking the joint apart was found, and the size of its fixing nut is not stated. Look before you start, or ask a dealer.

Lelit Elizabeth: every job