Stop Your Franke Athena Tap from Dripping – Complete Troubleshooting & Repair Guide (Ireland & NI)

If your Franke Athena kitchen tap is dripping, this guide will help you identify the correct parts for repair, including which valve your tap uses. We will also show you how to replace the spout O-rings or the valve, step by step. Additionally, we will explain how to safely remove the handle (no Allen key needed).

Need help identifying your tap or finding the right spare part? Visit our Tap Guides Hub or explore our Spare Parts here.

Franke Athena Tap Valve

• The manufacturers switched from the 1212R valve to the SP3819 valve around 2013.
• While either of these valves will fit your tap, we recommend ordering the same valve type as the one in your tap. For example, if you have the 1212R, order the 1212R valve.
• The valve part number in your tap is listed on the installation guide that came with it.
• If you’re unsure which valve you have, you can either order the 1212R (SP1212), as it covers all production years, or
• Remove the handle from your tap and compare it with the images below. The 3819R valve has only one set of threads, while the 1212R has two sets. Our DIY guide for removing the handle on your kitchen tap will assist you.

Athena Tap showing Handle and Valve 3819R

Tap Close up Cold Handle Removed, showing 20 Spline Valve 1212R

 

1212R Pair

SMR 3819R Pair

 

Brass Bush Warning: If your valve looks wider than expected when removed, the brass bush may have come out with it. This part must be separated and reused or replaced if damaged. See our brass bush removal guide here.

3819R valve inside 3408R bush

1212R valve inside 3408R bush

 

 

What About the Spout?

Over time, the spout on your Franke Athena tap can develop pinholes or leaks at the base. These are usually caused by worn O-rings or corrosion inside the spout body.

If your spout is damaged, we recommend replacing the complete spout. The replacement spout comes with new O-rings (SP1239) and a new Perlator (1263R). No separate grub screw is used – the Athena spout is secured with a locking nut, which is included.

• • • Available finishes: Chrome (1306R CH) or Brushed Nickel (1306R SS)

How to remove Kitchen Tap Spout held in by Locking Nut – see simple guide here.

Spout example: 1243R Locking Nut and 1239R O Ring kit. Unscrew the “shroud (locking nut)” that sits at the base of the spout by turning it anti-clockwise.

• • • Pull spout upwards and out. If stiff or you are meeting resistance, wiggle from side to side while pulling upwards.
    • Never pull towards you. Always pull UPWARDS. This applies to all kitchen taps without grub screws where a locking nut is used.

Still Unsure?

Email a photo of your tap and any removed part to info@hwl.ie, and we’ll confirm exactly what you need.

We only sell genuine replacement parts and have been supplying kitchen taps and spare parts for over 40 years. You can trust our expert support to help you get the right part – first time.

For the full parts list and advice, visit our Spare Parts Category.

FAQs

• • Q: What valve do I need for my Franke Athena tap?
    A: Either the 1212R or SP3819 valve will fit, but we recommend matching the valve already in your tap. If unsure, order the 1212R (SP1212), which covers all production years.
  • Q: How do I know if the brass bush is still inside my tap?
    A: If your removed valve looks wider than expected, the brass bush may have come out with it. You can reuse or replace it. See our guide.
  • Q: My spout is leaking at the base. Do I need a new spout?
    A: If the spout has corrosion or pinholes, it’s best to replace the whole spout. New spouts come with O-rings and Perlator included.