Lyla Lindsey
Changing a tap washer is a simple task that can save you money on your water bills and transform you from a DIY novice to an expert in no time. A tap washer is a small rubber or fibre ring that creates a watertight seal when the tap is closed, preventing water from leaking. Over time, a tap washer can wear out, causing the tap to drip or leak. To change a tap washer, you will need to shut off the water supply, remove the tap handle and spindle, replace the old washer with a new one of the same size, and then reassemble the tap. While this task can be easily done without the help of a plumber, it is important to note that there are different types of tapware, and tap washers come in various shapes and sizes, so you must find the right replacement.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Tools | Flat-headed screwdriver, spanner, tap spanner, old towel or cloth, packet of tap washers, pliers, wrench |
| Steps | 1. Shut off the water supply. 2. Remove the tap handle. 3. Remove the spindle cover. 4. Remove the spindle. 5. Replace the tap washer. 6. Re-insert the spindle. 7. Re-assemble the tap handle. 8. Turn the water supply back on. |
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What You'll Learn
Turn off the water supply
Before you begin to change your tap washer, it is important to turn off the water supply to the tap. This is a crucial step to avoid a potential bathroom or kitchen flood. There are two places you can turn off the water supply: the stop valve and the isolation valve.
The stop valve is located next to your water meter and is the main pipe supplying water to your house. You may need a pair of pliers to turn off the mains water tap.
The isolation valve can be found on the pipes underneath the affected basin or bath. This valve is used to stop the water flow to a specific sink. If you don't have an isolation valve, you will need to turn off the water at the mains.
If you are replacing the tap washer on the hot water tap, remember to switch off the water heater as well.
Once you have turned off the water supply, turn the tap fully open by turning it to the left. This will allow any remaining water to drain from the pipes. You can then proceed to remove the tap handle and continue with the rest of the steps to change your tap washer.
It is important to note that changing a tap washer without turning off the water supply is not recommended. While there may be techniques to accomplish this in specific situations, it is always best to shut off the water to avoid any potential issues or flooding.
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Remove the tap handle
Before removing the tap handle, it is important to turn off the water supply to the tap. You can do this at either of the two tap valve places: the stop valve, located next to your water meter, or the isolation valve, found on the pipes underneath the basin or bath. Once you have turned off the water supply, turn on the tap to release any excess water in the pipes.
Now, identify the type of tap handle you have. If there is a locking screw, use a flat-headed screwdriver to remove it. The tap handle should now be able to slide off. If there is a spring underneath, pull the tap handle off.
If your tap handle has a spindle cover, you will need to remove this first. Turn the spindle cover anti-clockwise to remove it. If it is stuck, spray the cover with WD-40 and allow it to soak. If the cover is fixed with silicone, use a craft knife to cut it away. Once the spindle cover is loosened, turn and lift it to remove.
With the spindle cover removed, you can now access the spindle. Position an adjustable wrench on the spindle body and turn it anti-clockwise to loosen it. Once it is loose, turn and remove the spindle from the sink.
Now that the tap handle has been removed, you can continue with the next steps to replace the tap washer.
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Identify the tap type
Before you begin to change your tap washer, it is important to identify the type of tap you have. This is because tap washers come in different shapes and sizes, and you will need to find an exact replacement. Older and traditional taps typically require larger washers, whereas newer models and mixer taps may take smaller ones.
Modern tapware tends to have ceramic cartridges instead of rubber washers, so it is important to check if your tap has a washer before attempting to change it. If you are unsure, take the worn tap washer to your local hardware store and ask for advice on the correct replacement.
To identify the type of tap, you will need to remove the tap handle. This may involve removing a locking screw with a flat-headed screwdriver, or you may need to use a wrench to remove the trim covers and tap spindle. Once the tap handle is removed, you can identify the type of tap and determine the correct washer size.
It is also important to consider the size of the tap seat, as the washer must align with it. The tap seat is the area where the washer sits to create a watertight seal. By checking the size and type of tap, you can ensure that you have the correct replacement washer before beginning the repair.
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Replace the tap washer
Firstly, turn off the water supply to the tap. You can do this at either of two tap valve places: the stop valve, located next to your water meter, or the isolation valve, found on the pipes beneath the basin or bath.
Next, turn on the tap to drain any excess water in the pipes. Put the plug in the basin or bath to prevent debris from getting into the drain.
Now, remove the tap handle. Identify the type of tap handle you have and remove it from the spindle. You may need to remove a locking screw to do this.
Once the tap handle is off, remove the spindle. Position an adjustable wrench on the spindle body and turn it anti-clockwise to loosen it. Once the spindle is loose, turn and remove it from the sink.
The tap valve should now be visible. If it is stuck, use multi-grip pliers to pinch the tap valve's post and lift it out.
Replace the old fibre washer on the tap's brass body with a new one of the same size. You may also need to replace the O-rings on the spindle. Apply lubricant to the new O-rings and spindle.
Now, re-insert the spindle back into the tap's brass body. Position the new tap valve at the bottom of the spindle and screw the tap body back into place. Use an adjustable wrench to tighten the nut.
Finally, re-assemble your tap handle by following the previous steps in reverse. Remember to turn the tap off before turning your mains water tap back on.
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Reassemble the tap handle
To reassemble the tap handle, simply reverse the steps you took to disassemble it. Ensure that each piece is returned to its original position and placed in the correct order. Tighten all screws with a screwdriver until they are snug.
First, slide the tap handle back on. Next, twist the locking screw back on and tighten it by turning it to the right with your hand. Then, tighten the locking screw with a spanner. Place the spindle back into the hole and screw it to the right, tightening it with a tap spanner. Finally, turn the tap bonnet to the right to tighten it.
Before turning the water mains back on, ensure that the tap is in the closed position (turned to the right). Once the water mains are back on, turn the tap on and off to test it.
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