Basic question - a squeaky water inlet tap

[alichambersUK]

Hi,

I was turning my water inlet tap (in photo below) to turn the mains water off to my flat, and noticed it had got very stiff and squeaky.

I tried spraying some WD40 into the circled area in the photo, but this didnt help - it didnt get into the tap joint as it is so tight fitting.

Can anyone suggest a lubricant and how to apply it.

Thanks!
Alex

 

[PlumbBobBob]

alex loosen off the spindle nut and apply some silicone grease. then do it back up but not as tight, when doing so turn the tap at the same time until it gets stiff then turn the nut back slightly.

 

[alichambersUK]

Thanks.

If I loosen the nut, is there a risk of water flying out?

 

[PlumbBobBob]

no water won't fly out but you may get a bit of dripping