Blog, DIY Plumbing Guides
How to fix a dripping Franke Olympus Tap
Is your Franke Olympus tap leaking or dripping? Here’s how to fix it in Ireland and Northern Ireland.
1. Where Is the Leak Coming From?
A dripping Franke Olympus tap usually results from a worn O-ring or a faulty valve.
- If the leak is coming from the base of the spout, it could be caused by worn O-rings or a pinhole in the spout.
- If the leak is from the handle or the tip of the spout (aerator end), it typically means the valve is worn and needs replacing.
Once you’ve identified the source of the leak, follow the repair steps below based on where the leak is coming from.
Tools You’ll Need:
- 2mm and 2.5mm Allen keys (as per your tap model)
- Adjustable spanner
- Soft cloth or towel to protect the tap or catch drips
Parts You May Need if Dripping from the Base of the Spout:
Repair Steps (Dripping from the Base of the Spout):
- Turn off your water supply to prevent further leaks.
- Use the appropriate Allen key (2mm or 2.5mm) to remove the spout.
- Inspect the O-rings. If they’re damaged, replace them using the genuine Franke 1425R / SP1425 O-Ring Kit.
- If the spout has a pinhole, replace the entire spout with a new one.
2. Parts You May Need if Leaking from the Handle or Tip of the Spout:
- Franke Olympus Valve (Hot or Cold )
- Brass Bush ( required if your valve comes out attached to the existing one and you can’t separate them, see Guide below)
- 2mm Allen Key for Handle
Common cause: A worn valve is often the culprit here.
Tools You’ll Need:
- 2mm Allen key (for removing the handle)
- Adjustable spanner
- Soft cloth to protect your tap and surrounding area
Repair Steps (Leaking from the Handle or Tip of the Spout):
- Turn off the water supply to prevent any further leakage.
- Use the 2mm Allen key to remove the handle.
- Loosen and remove the valve with your adjustable spanner.
- Install the correct valve: remember, Hot opens clockwise and Cold opens anti-clockwise.
Note: If the valve appears wider than the replacement valve, it may still have the brass valve bush attached. This can be reused or replaced — check out our Olympus Valve Bush Guide for more details.
FAQs – Franke Olympus Tap Repairs
Why do I need both 2mm and 2.5mm Allen keys?
Franke made changes to the grub screw size during the production of the Olympus tap. The oldest models used a 2mm Allen key, whereas subsequent versions used a 2.5mm key for the Spout grub screw and a 2mm allen key for the handle. To avoid confusion, it’s best to have both sizes on hand. A grub screw is so tiny and if it is rounded you might not be able to unscrew it or you might damage it. Same for the thread inside the tap handle or spout. It is always better to check before undoing a grub screw to ensure you use the correct size allen key. You can find our Allen Key Pack here.
My valve looks different to the replacement – is this normal?
Yes, this is normal. Often, the brass valve bush is still attached to the old valve. You can either reuse the bush or replace it. Visit our Olympus Valve Bush Guide for help.
Why does my installation guide show a different valve number?
The 4276R valve replaces older versions like the 1427R. Later valve used in this Tap was the SMR 3561R. However, due to internal changes to this Tap in production, by purchasing the 4276R, you are ensuring that you are fitting your Olympus Tap with the best replacement genuine valve from the manufacturer of your Tap.
Are 1425R and SP1425 the same part?
Yes, both part numbers refer to the same genuine Franke O-ring kit. “1425R” is the older part number, and “SP1425” is the updated one.
How long does it take to fix an Olympus tap?
If you’re comfortable using basic tools, most DIY repairs (like replacing O-rings or valves) take about 15–30 minutes. We also provide detailed step-by-step instructions and can help you if you get stuck.
Need Expert Help with Your Olympus Tap?
We stock genuine Franke parts and can help you identify the right parts. Send us a photo or question, and we’ll respond quickly!