DIY GUIDE: TIP TOP TAP TIPS

The sound of a dripping tap is irritating enough without even thinking about how much water is going to waste, drip by drip, in the process!

When it comes to single lever taps, we have replacement cartridges or body washers available. However, many fixtures with separate hot and cold taps are an old-fashioned type with rubber washers fitted to stop water flow. Eventually, these wear out, causing the tap to leak. This type of washer can be changed quickly and easily by following the advice below.

Changing A Washer

First, turn o the main water supply and drain the water in the pipes. Next, remove the tap cover – often the handle, which may screw o , or a cap on the top of the handle that can be opened with a flat lever. You may also need to remove a small screw underneath the cap. Once the tap cover is loose, the top of the tap should slide o easily.

Undo the cartridge in the middle of the tap by grasping the flat surface on each side of it with the jaws of an adjustable or ring spanner. Lift it out when it is loose enough to move without too much e ort. You’ll find the washer will be attached to the bottom of the cartridge.

Carefully, using a pair of pliers – pull the worn washer away from the cartridge. Depending on how worn it is, the washer may break.

Clean away any residue on the cartridge with steel wool before inserting the new washer. Slide the cartridge back into position and use your spanner to tighten it in place –finger tight is best. Replace the tap cover and you’re done.

Finally, turn the tap to the o position before turning the main water supply back on.

Choosing A Washer

There is a wide variety of washers available in various sizes with some best suited to either hot or cold taps.

Here are some points to consider:

 Blue 15mm and 20mm washers are suitable for both hot and cold taps

 Basin taps usually require 15mm washers, 20mm for bath taps

 Red fibre washers are appropriate for use with hotter water as they are made from stronger rubber

 Dome washers are a good option if the seat of the tap is a little damaged, no longer smooth and flat. This can happen when a tap has been leaking for a while

 Washers also come in mixed multipacks for just a few dollars, so if you’re in doubt about what you need, buy a mix pack to save making an extra trip if the initial selection isn’t the perfect fit