York-Appliances FAQ's
Can you stop stainless steel scratching?
No. Stainless Steel will always scratch (whether it be of Franke's manufacture or competitor) and because of the directional polishing marks on many Franke models the scratching will show up quite dramatically initially. However, with use and cleaning (using a proprietary cleaner like Shiny Sinks) the stainless steel will eventually build up a patina over the years and the scratching marks will not be as evident.
How can I remove 'rust spots' from my new stainless steel sink
As the world’s largest stainless steel manufacturers, Franke are extremely stringent in the quality and standards required from the steel suppliers. The material used is a high quality 18/10 chrome nickel steel which is metallurgically incapable of rusting or corroding in normal household conditions.
It can, however, harbour ferrous particles from the water supply and these often occur with new installations when the pipework is disturbed. These filings get deposited and cling to the sink surface and unless removed will rust.
In this instance we would request that the sink is cleaned thoroughly with Bar Keepers Friend, which should be sprinkled onto the sink and scrubbed into a paste with a stiff nylon nail brush (ie not a cloth or washing up brush) before thoroughly rinsing off and drying the sink.
We would point out that unless the particles are completely removed they will return. It is therefore very important that after cleaning the sink, it is dried thoroughly. This process needs to continue until the problem disappears.
We would also recommend the use of a product such as ‘Shiny Sinks’ after each application of Bar Keepers Friend.
The problem is sometimes particularly obstinate to remove and it may take several attempts to restore the sink to its pristine condition
How do I get spares for my tap or sink?
South Services carry a comprehensive range of spare parts for all Franke products. Refer to the appropriate pages to identify the part you need and either order online or contact us by phone. Spares may be purchased using a Debit / Credit card and are supplied by mail-order.South-Services
What is the Warranty period for Franke products?
Normally Franke taps carry a 5 year Warranty on the valve mechanisms & seals and a 1 year warranty on the finish.
Franke sinks carry a 25 year Warranty on the material used in manufacture. All other parts carry a 1 year Warranty.
To obtain any parts FOC under Warranty, it may be necessary to provide a dated Proof of Purchase or receipt.
What spares can I obtain?
Apart from spare valves, which will eventually wear with use, you can obtain spare handles, O-rings for spouts, replacement spouts, anti-splashes, and most other parts that comprise a tap. South Services also stock a comprehensive range of spares and accessories for Franke sinks Franke Spares
Do ceramic disc valves in taps (1/4 turn) ever go wrong?
Operationally, ceramic discs can last for the life of the tap. However, water-borne particles or hard water can affect mechanisms. Fitting a new tap can often dislodge foreign matter which has been in your pipework for ages; This can become trapped in the valve, preventing it from operating perfectly. Damaged valves need to be replaced, they are not serviceable.
How do I best clean taps?
Do not use abrasive cleaners that may permanently damage the finish of your tap. Use only a soft cloth and mild detergent. Stubborn stains on chrome or silk-steel finishes may be removed using Franke Inox cream, obtainable from South Services.
I find ordinary handles too hard to turn. What can I do?
If you have a grip problem, you can obtain "Nudge Handles" for some Franke taps, which have specially extended levers to facilitate easy movement. South Services stock these as spares, but only in Chrome.
My tap leaks from the base of the spout. What can I do?
This normally indicates wear of the O-rings that are used to seal this joint. Service spares are obtainable from South Services and are easily replaceable.Franke Spares
How do I remove the spout on my Franke tap?
Refer to the Installation Instructions supplied with your tap. If this is not available, try one of the following:-
1. Undo the small grub-screw at the back of the tap body
2. Unscrew the collar at the base of the spout at the joint with the body
3. Turn spout in line with tap handles to locate bayonet-lug and pull upwards
The flow from the spout is irregular. What should I do?
Water-borne particles and/or calcium deposits in hard water areas can block the anti-splash. Remove & clean the anti-splash or obtain a replacement from South Services.
My stainless steel sink is rusting. What can I do?
We would like to explain that as the Worlds largest stainless steel sink manufacturers Franke are extremely stringent In the quality and standards required from their steel suppliers. The material used is a high quality 18/10 chrome nickel steel which is metallurgically incapable of rusting or corroding in normal household conditions.
It can however, harbour ferrous particles from the water supply and these often occur with new installations when the pipework is disturbed. These filings get deposited and cling onto the sink surface and - unless removed - will rust.
In this instance we would request that the sink is cleaned thoroughly with a product called Astonish Paste. Clean the rust spots off and then rinse the sink well. It is very important that after cleaning the sink is dried thoroughly. This method of cleaning should be done each time until the problem disappears. As the problem is sometimes particularly obstinate to remove it may take several attempts to restore the sink to its pristine condition.
Can I get replacement sink accessories?
South Services can supply replacement accessories, such as chopping-boards, strainer bowls, drainer inserts, baskets and strainer wastes. See the appropriate sink page for details of all accessories, replacement wastes & seals etc. for your sink
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