How to Change Washer on a Tap: A DIY Guide
A dripping tap isn’t just an annoying sound keeping you awake at night – it’s a steady drain on both your water bill and environmental resources. Learning how to change a tap washer is one of the most valuable DIY skills you can master, potentially saving you hundreds in plumbing costs and water waste. Whether you’re dealing with a leaking tap in your bathroom sink or a worn tap washer in your kitchen, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step by step.
While the thought of tackling plumbing repairs might seem daunting, replacing tap washers is a straightforward task that most homeowners can handle with basic tools like a flathead screwdriver and some patience. Regular maintenance of your tap washers not only prevents those irritating drips but also extends the life of your taps and helps avoid costly emergency calls to a professional plumber.
Understanding Your Tap Washers
What Makes a Tap Leak?
At the heart of every traditional tap is a simple mechanism that controls water flow through compression. When you turn the tap handle, a spindle moves up or down, pressing a small rubber washer against a metal seat. This creates a watertight seal that stops water flow when the tap is closed. Over time, this rubber washer undergoes significant wear and tear, leading to a compromised seal and the dreaded drip.
The signs of a failing washer are usually quite clear. It might start with an occasional drip that progresses to a steady trickle. In hot water taps, the deterioration can be even faster due to higher temperatures accelerating wear on the rubber washers. If you’re noticing these early warning signs, you might be looking to fix a leaking tap. A worn washer not only wastes water but can also lead to:
- Increased water bills from constant dripping
- Staining in sinks and basins from mineral deposits
- Potential damage to tap components if left unaddressed
- Wasted energy heating water that just drips away
Modern tapware, including mixer taps, might use ceramic cartridges instead of traditional rubber washers, but the principle remains similar. Understanding your tap’s inner workings is crucial for effective maintenance and repair.
Preparation Essentials
Tools and Materials Checklist
Before you begin changing a tap washer, gathering the right tools and materials is essential for success. Here’s what you’ll need:
Tools
- Adjustable spanner or tap spanner
- Flathead screwdriver and Phillips screwdriver
- Needle nose pliers
- Penetrating oil (for stubborn parts)
- Basin wrench (for difficult-to-reach nuts)
Materials
- Replacement washers (various sizes)
- O-rings (as backup)
- Old towel or rag
- Plumber’s tape
- Small container (for parts)
When selecting a new washer, size matters significantly. Take your old washer to the hardware store for precise matching, or measure its dimensions carefully. Quality matters too – opt for durable washers rated for hot water if you’re working on a hot water tap.
Safety Equipment
- Safety glasses
- Work gloves
- Torch or headlamp
- Non-slip mat
Before starting any plumbing work, ensure you have basic plumbing experience or at least familiarity with household maintenance. While changing a tap washer is a relatively simple task, proper preparation prevents complications. If you are not familiar with the basics, it is recommended to call the kitchen or bathroom plumber about your concerns.
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How To Change a Worn Tap Washer: 10 Simple Steps
Step 1: Turn Off Your Water Supply
Go where the tap washer is located, and then find your main water supply or isolation valve before beginning any work. The water meter is typically at your property boundary, while isolation valves are found under sinks or near your affected basin. Turn off the water completely and verify by opening the tap to drain the remaining water from the pipes underneath. If working on a hot water system, consider shutting this off as well. Test multiple taps to ensure water flow has completely stopped. This preparation prevents unexpected water discharge while working and protects your workspace from potential flooding.
Step 2: Prepare Your Workspace
Create a safe and organised work area by protecting your drain with a cloth to catch small parts. Arrange your tools within easy reach, including either your flathead screwdriver or other necessary implements. Ensure proper lighting to see all components clearly – a headlamp or bright portable light works well. Place an old towel around the affected basin to prevent water damage and scratches. Take photos of the assembly for reference during reassembly, and keep a container handy for organising removed parts.
Step 3: Remove the Tap Cover
Begin by carefully removing the decorative tap button or cover. Most modern faucet designs conceal fixing screws beneath these covers. Using your flat-headed screwdriver, gently pry up the edge of the cover, being mindful not to damage chrome or special finishes. Some tap buttons may unscrew rather than pop off – check for threads before applying force. If the cover is resistant, avoid using excessive pressure, which could damage the faucet’s body.
Step 4: Dismantle the Handle
With the cover removed, you’ll see the screw securing the tap handle. Remove this carefully, noting its type and position. Lift the handle straight up to avoid damage to the tap spindle. If the handle is stuck, apply penetrating oil and wait before attempting removal. Keep all small components organised in their removal order – this is crucial for reassembly. Some handles may have additional securing methods, so watch for hidden fasteners.
Step 5: Take Off the Tap Skirt
The tap skirt covers the tap bonnet and requires careful removal. Different models may use various attachment methods – some unscrew by hand, others may need tools. Clean away any old sealant or debris as you work. Inspect the skirt for damage or wear that might affect reassembly. If the tap skirt is stuck, avoid using excessive force; instead, apply penetrating oil and wait. Mark alignment points to ensure proper repositioning during reassembly.
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Step 6: Access the Tap Body
Now expose the tap bonnet, which houses essential internal components. When you tap bonnet, unscrew, use the correct size spanner to avoid damaging the corners. Hold the faucet body steady to prevent straining pipes underneath. The jumper valve assembly should come free with the bonnet – note its orientation. If parts are stuck, apply penetrating oil and wait rather than forcing them. Be prepared for water trapped in the body.
Step 7: Remove the Old Washer
Locate where the tap washer is located within the assembly. Remove the small nut or screw securing it, keeping track of all components. Inspect the tap seat for wear or damage – a damaged seat will prevent even new washers from sealing properly. Clean all parts thoroughly, checking for mineral buildup or corrosion. If you encounter difficulty removing the old washer, avoid using sharp tools that might damage the seating area.
Step 8: Install New Washer
Take your replacement washer and new washers, ensuring they’re the same size as the original. Position the new tap washer so it fits snugly in its housing. Secure it with the retaining screw, being careful not to over-tighten it. Check that the washer sits flat and even on the tap seat. This is critical for creating a proper seal. Verify the washer material is appropriate for either hot or cold water use.
Step 9: Reassemble the Tap
Working in reverse order, begin reconstruction of your repaired tap. Start with the jumper valve, ensuring correct orientation. Replace the tap bonnet, tightening appropriately but not excessively. Reattach the tap skirt, checking alignment marks. Reinstall the handle to make sure it operates smoothly. Finally, replace the tap button or decorative cover. Double-check each connection as you work, avoiding common mistakes like cross-threading or misalignment.
Step 10: Test and Verify
Gradually restore the water supply, watching for leaks around all connections. Test the tap through its full range of motion, checking for smooth operation and proper water flow. Listen for unusual noises that might indicate internal problems. Monitor for drips or seepage around seals and connections. If issues arise, methodically recheck each component, paying special attention to washer seating and bonnet tightness. A properly repaired tap should operate smoothly and maintain a perfect seal when closed.
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From Drips to Savings: Your Success Story
Understanding how to maintain tap washers is a vital skill for any homeowner. By replacing worn tap washers, you’ve solved the frustration of a leaky tap and prevented the waste of precious water resources. While some might find it challenging to locate where the tap washer is located or work with the tap stem, practice makes perfect. Remember, it’s a great idea to keep new tap washers and a flat-head screwdriver in your toolkit for future maintenance.
Though most repairs are manageable with basic tools, don’t hesitate to call a professional plumber for complex issues. Regular inspection and replacing worn components will prevent leaking taps from becoming major problems. By mastering this simple maintenance task, you’re not only saving money but also contributing to water conservation. Keep monitoring your taps and address any issues promptly to ensure long-lasting performance.
