Keep Your Ascona Tap Running Smoothly: Maintenance and Repair Tips
Regular maintenance is key to ensuring your Franke Ascona Tap continues to function effectively and avoids future leaks. Be sure to turn off your water supply before attempting any repairs, and consult a professional if you’re unsure about how to proceed.
Replacing the Franke Ascona Tap Valve
If your tap is dripping either from the aerator end of the spout or the handle, you may need to replace the valve.
Here are images of the Franke Ascona Tap and Franke Ascona Tap with U Spout (both models use the same valve type):
Please check the images to ensure you have the Ascona Tap and not a different model.
Valves are quarter-turn with ceramic discs (also known as Glands) and may have SMR or San Marco stamped on them.
Dimensions:
- Height: 38mm
- Thread Diameter: 20mm
- Splines: 28
Important: The Hot and Cold valves are not interchangeable – one opens clockwise, and the other opens anti-clockwise.
What Valve is in My Ascona Tap? Why Does It Matter?
Understanding which valve is in your tap is important for removal. The SP3794 valve (the current version) can be removed without a special tool. However, older taps with the SP3308R valve may require the Removal Tool 4013R if the valve nut has flat sides.
For the current valve model (SP3794), you’ll need a 14 size Hex Key to remove it, which can be found in any DIY store.

If your Ascona Tap uses the older SP3308R valve, you might need the 4013R tool for removal, especially if it has flat sides on the nut:

Both versions of the valve are interchangeable with your tap/handle, though they may look visually different.
No Brass Bush Required: The Franke Ascona Tap Valve does not require a brass bush for installation.
How to Remove the Ascona Tap Handle
To remove the handle:
- Prepare: Place a cloth or towel underneath to catch the small screw. You can also buy a replacement grub screw if needed.
- Tools: Use a 2mm Allen Key (this is essential, as using the wrong size could damage the screw).
- Unscrew: Turn the screw counterclockwise to loosen it.
- Handle Insert: There’s a white insert 3530R on top of the valve, which can be replaced if necessary.

If you need a replacement handle, you can purchase the Franke Ascona Handle complete with a grub screw here, contact us
Removing the Valve
- Turn off your water supply to both hot and cold lines.
- Loosen the valve by turning it counterclockwise (some water may leak out—this is normal).
- Clean the chamber once the valve is removed.
- Install the new valve by turning it clockwise.
- Reassemble everything in reverse order.
Whichever Franke Ascona Valve you receive, both versions will fit your tap handle.
Need Help?
If you’re still unsure after reading the above steps, feel free to contact us before purchasing any parts. We’re happy to help you choose the right part for your Franke Ascona Tap.
Useful Guides and Links
Here are some additional guides that might help you with your Franke Ascona Tap maintenance:
- How to Replace a Tap Valve
- O-Ring Replacement Guide
- How to Remove an Aerator
- How to Remove the Tap Spout


