Tools and materials
The tools and materials you need to change a washer are available from
your local hardware or plumbing store. You will need: an adjustable spanner to
fit the tap nut valve, an O-ring
Silicon lubricant or Vaseline Needle nose pliers
Method
1. Turn off the mains: this will stop all water flowing into your
house or office. The tap & water meter for homes will be out on the street or in your front
yard next to the street. If you live in a flat or apartment the mains tap will
probably be inside, for example in the bathroom or a cupboard. Turn on a tap in
or around the house to make sure that the water has stopped running. (If the
water has not stopped running, it will be wise to call a professional plumber manly).
If the mains tap has not been used for many years, you may need a pair of
pliers to help turn it off. Ensure you know where the mains tap is to be able to turn
the water off in an emergency. If you are not sure where it is, even if you
don't need to change a washer, find out now!
2. Undo the head nut: once the mains has been turned off, undo the
head nut on the leaking tap.
3. Replace the washers: you could just replace the
tap washer, but it is a good idea to replace all three washer. These are: The large
washer around the top of the nut, which is called the body washer (usually
orange or green in colour). It should lift off easily. The O-ring on the
spindle. To change the O-ring, you need to fully close the tap until the O-ring
appears. Then, with a pair of pliers cut it off. The new O-ring should easily
stretch and roll on to the spindle.
Lastly, replace the tap washer. It may simply slide out of the spindle
or stay sitting in the centre of the tap, in which case you will need a pair of
small pliers to remove the washer.
4. Reassemble: first ensure the spindle and the threaded areas are
lubricated with a silicon lubricant or Vaseline.
5. Turn the mains back on: once the tap is
reassembled, open it three quarter way and then turn on the water mains. When
turning the tap off after the washer has been replaced, use gentle hsnd pressure.
Over-tightening will cause a lot of damage to the tap seat. A tap should only
be tightened until the water flow has stopped, no further. Note: If
the tap is still leaking after you have replaced the washer, it means the seat
is "pitted" and you will need a professional plumber to regrind the
seat for you.
Further information
Most of inside taps use12mm (1/2") washers; while outside taps
(garden taps) take 3/4" (18mm). Washers cost around $2.50 to $3.00 each.
The most popular washer (used by most plumbers) is a heavy-duty washer suitable
for taps, with a copper base and a yellow top (Delaware valve) – approximately
$3.50 each. This same type of washer is good for outside garden taps - 18mm
costs approximately $3.00 each.
If your taps are very old, take the worn-out washer to the hardware or
your local supply store so that you get the right washer for your tap.
For more information please contact Manly Emergency Plumber, Melbourne 24 Hour Plumbing, Mr Plumber Perth, Mr Plumber Sydney or Geelong 24 Hour Plumbing
