Say goodbye to leaky faucets: master the art of changing a hot water tap washer

A leaky hot water tap can be a persistent annoyance, wasting water and driving up utility bills. Fortunately, it’s a relatively simple task to change the tap washer yourself. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, providing clear instructions and helpful tips.

Tools and Materials

Before you begin, gather the following tools and materials:

• Adjustable wrench
• Screwdriver
• Replacement tap washer
• Plumber’s putty (optional)
• Rags or paper towels

Safety Precautions

• Turn off the water supply to the tap before starting any work.
• Open the tap to release any remaining water pressure.
• Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Remove the Handle

• Use the adjustable wrench to loosen the screw that secures the handle to the tap.
• Once the screw is loose, remove the handle by pulling it straight up.

2. Unscrew the Packing Nut

• Using the adjustable wrench, unscrew the packing nut located below the handle.
• Be careful not to overtighten the packing nut, as this can damage the tap.

3. Remove the Stem

• Grip the stem with a rag or paper towel and pull it straight up.
• If the stem is stuck, you can use a screwdriver to gently pry it loose.

4. Remove the Old Washer

• The old washer will be located at the bottom of the stem.
• Use a screwdriver or your fingers to remove the washer.

5. Install the New Washer

• Place the new washer onto the stem.
• Ensure that the washer is facing the correct direction (usually with the beveled side facing down).

6. Reinsert the Stem

• Push the stem back into the tap body.
• Make sure that the washer is properly seated.

7. Tighten the Packing Nut

• Thread the packing nut back onto the tap body.
• Tighten the packing nut by hand until it is snug.
• Use the adjustable wrench to further tighten the packing nut by about 1/4 turn.

8. Reinstall the Handle

• Place the handle back onto the tap.
• Secure the handle by tightening the screw.

9. Turn on the Water Supply

• Open the water supply to the tap.
• Check for any leaks.
• If there are leaks, tighten the packing nut slightly.

Tips

• Apply plumber’s putty around the base of the tap before reinstalling the handle to prevent future leaks.
• If the stem is corroded or damaged, it may need to be replaced.
• If you are unable to fix the leak yourself, contact a qualified plumber.

Troubleshooting

• Leak from the handle: The packing nut may be too loose. Tighten the packing nut slightly.
• Leak from the base of the tap: The plumber’s putty may not have been properly applied. Remove the handle and reapply plumber’s putty before reinstalling the handle.
• Water not flowing: The stem may be stuck. Remove the stem and clean it before reinstalling it.

In a nutshell

Changing a hot water tap washer is a straightforward task that can be completed in a matter of minutes. By following these step-by-step instructions and using the proper tools and materials, you can save yourself time and money by fixing the leak yourself.

What You Need to Know

1. How often should I change the tap washer?

Tap washers typically need to be changed every 5-10 years or when they start to leak.

2. What are the signs of a worn tap washer?

Signs of a worn tap washer include a leaking tap, a noisy tap when it is turned on or off, and water hammer (a banging sound in the pipes when the tap is turned off).

3. Can I use any type of washer?

No, you should use a washer that is specifically designed for your tap model.