We often take our water for granted, despite using it everyday! It is a precious resource, and even the smallest leaks can have a big impact. Something as simple as a dripping tap might not seem like a big deal, but it can actually waste a lot more water (and money!) than you might think.
Did you know that just one drip per second can waste up to 5 litres of water a day? That adds up to 130 litres a month or 1,577 litres a year, just from one leaking tap! Now, imagine that multiplied by millions of households across the country. The waste quickly adds up. So, simply replacing the tap washer in your leaking tap can save you hundreds of litres of water every year!
At Crawford Plumbing, we’re in the business of helping you keep your plumbing systems in top shape. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the simple steps on how to replace a tap washer, so you can stop the drip and keep your taps running smoothly.
What is a Tap Washer?
A tap washer is a small but crucial component of a tap that is designed to create a watertight seal, stopping water from leaking when you turn off your tap. It is a disk-shaped device that has a central hole, acting as a gasket between the different parts of your tap fitting.
Most standard taps have two main components: the seat and the tap washer. The washer is located at the base of the tap spindle (depending on the tap style), right where it meets the tap seat.
Tap washers control water flow by pressing against the seat or flow valve inside the tap assembly. When you turn off the tap, the washer presses tightly against the seat, creating a barrier that blocks water from flowing through the spout. Once you turn the handle again, the washer lifts away from the seat, allowing water to flow freely.
Types of Tap Washers
There are a few different types of tap washers to consider when making a replacement. Using the correct type is important to ensuring your tap works correctly:
- Rubber Tap Washers: These are the classic washers that you’ll find in most bath and sink taps. They come in various sizes (15mm, 32mm, and 40mm) and create a strong seal against hard surfaces because of their flexible nature.
- Nylon Tap Washers: Nylon washers are known for their durability and resistance to wear. With low surface friction, they last longer than rubber washers and maintain their shape for a long time.
- Fibre Tap Washers: Also known as vulcanised fibre washers, these washers expand when wet, making them great at sealing. They’re more compressible than rubber or nylon washers, offering a snug fit.
- Ceramic Tap Washers: Found in more modern tap assemblies (especially quarter-turn and mixer taps), ceramic washers work a little differently. Instead of a rubber or fibre disk, they use two ceramic disks with slots that rotate to control water flow.
Washer Replacement: Essential Tools
When it comes to plumbing repairs, having the right tools is key, and replacing a tap washer is no exception! Having everything you need on hand before you begin will help you avoid frustrating interruptions halfway through the job. Luckily, this is a simple task that requires only a few basic tools, many of which you probably already have at home:
- Adjustable wrench/spanner: You’ll need this to loosen and tighten the tap fittings
- Screwdrivers: Both flathead and Phillips head types will help remove the tap handle and screws
- Needle-nose pliers: These work best to remove and install the small washer without damage
- Replacement washers: Match the size with your old one
- Clean cloth or towel: This protects fixtures from scratches and helps grip slippery surfaces
Additional Helpful Items:
- Tap spanner or valve spanner set: These tools are made for tap work and come in different sizes
- Lubricant: This helps loosen rusty parts
- Bucket: You’ll need this to catch water during repairs
- Plumber’s tape (PTFE tape): This creates watertight seals on threaded connections.
- Tap Valve Repair Kit: These kits usually contain washers, O-rings, valve seats, and sometimes even special tools specifically for tap maintenance.
How to Change A Tap Washer: A Step by Step Guider
Step 1: Turn Off The Water & Plug the sink
- Start by shutting off your water supply. Look for an isolation valve under the sink or your main water meter. Turn it clockwise until it closes completely.
- The leaking tap should be fully opened to drain remaining water and release pressure.
- Put a towel or stopper in your sink drain will prevent small parts from falling down during repairs.
Step 2: Remove The Handle
- Your tap handle type determines the removal method. Standard plastic handles need their decorative cap pried off with a flathead screwdriver to reach the locking nut inside.
- Lever or pin handles usually have a hidden screw that comes out with an Allen key. T-handle taps come with either a side screw, hidden nut, or a screwed hot/cold button on top.
- After finding the right spot, remove the handle from the spindle carefully.
Step 3: Remove The Packing Nut
- An adjustable wrench loosens the packing nut (also called the headgear).
- Turn it (typically counterclockwise) until it releases from the tap body. Stubborn nuts might need lubricant.
- The tap needs to be held firmly while turning to avoid damage.
Step 4: Remove and Replace The Washer
- The removed packing nut gives access to the spindle. Pull it out after unscrewing.
- The old washer sits at the bottom, held by a small screw or nut.
- Take out this fastener with a screwdriver or pliers and remove the old washer.
- Put in a new washer of similar size.
Step 5: Reassemble the tap
- Put everything back together in reverse order. (taking photos at each step can help!)
- The new washer needs to be positioned correctly before reinserting the spindle.
- The packing nut should be tightened until snug, but overtightening can damage components.
- Secure the handle with its screw or nut and replace decorative caps.
Step 6: Test
- Slowly restore water supply and watch for leaks around the tap body, handle, and spout.
- Let water run at full pressure for 2-3 minutes to check proper function.
- Persistent leaks might mean you need to check your assembly work or replace the tap seat.
Common Issues When Changing a Tap Washer: Troubleshooting After Replacement
Sometimes replacing the washer doesn’t fix the problem! While some issues can be fixed with a bit of troubleshooting, others may indicate bigger plumbing problems. If you’re unable to solve the issue, it might be time to call a professional plumber. They’ll be able to spot complex problems that could require more extensive repairs or replacements.
Taps Still Leaking
If your tap continues to leak after you’ve installed a new washer, the issue could lie elsewhere in the tap assembly. Here are a few things to check:
- Damaged Valve Seat: The valve seat is the metal surface where the washer presses to form a seal. Over time, this part can get tiny cracks or become uneven, scored, or corroded. Even with a new washer, water can still seep through if the seat isn’t in good condition.
- Incorrect Washer Size: It’s important to choose the right size washer that matches your tap model. A mismatched washer might not form a proper seal, causing leakage.
- Improper Installation: Sometimes, the washer may not sit flat or align properly in the tap assembly, which can prevent it from sealing correctly.
If you suspect the valve seat is the issue, a tap reseating tool might be able to help. This tool smooths out any imperfections on the metal surface where the washer presses. However, be cautious—if the damage is more severe, using the tool could make things worse. In this case, it’s a good idea to call in a professional plumber.
Low Water Pressure
Notice a drop in water pressure after changing your tap washer? Here are a few possible causes:
- Expanded Washers: New washers, especially rubber ones, can expand quite a bit once installed. This expansion can reduce the water flow, especially if the washer is too thick or does not fit perfectly.
- Debris Blockage: Old washer pieces, mineral deposits, or debris can get stuck in the water channels, restricting flow.
- Incorrect Washer Size: If you’ve used a washer that’s too large, it could block the water flow. Be sure you’re using the correct size!
- Clogged Fixtures: Over time, mineral deposits can build up in the aerator or other internal passages of your tap, causing low water pressure. Cleaning these out might solve the issue.
Key Takeaways
Changing a tap washer is one of the easiest plumbing tasks any homeowner can tackle. With just a few basic tools, you can stop that annoying drip, save water, and cut down on your water bills—all in just 15-20 minutes!
However, if you encounter persistent issues, you might need a bit more expertise. That’s where we come in! At Crawford Plumbing, our licensed plumbers are experts in tap and toilet repairs. We even carry a variety of mixer taps in our service vehicles for quick replacements, so there’s no waiting around for supplier deliveries.
Serving homes and businesses across Melbourne and Mitchell Shire, we provide fast, reliable solutions to get your plumbing back on track. Book your tap and toilet repair today!