How to fix a leaking tap

A leaking tap is a common plumbing occurrence in most households.There are several causes of a leaking tap, but most are simple to fix. It's an easy step-by-step job that can save you money and wasted water.

Safety

Always keep tools and materials away from children.
Read the instructions before beginning your project.
Consult your council or water authority for legal requirements.

Materials

12mm (1/2") washers are most commonly used inside the home
O-ring
Jumper valve
Reseating kit (if necessary)
Cloth, to protect chrome when loosening and tightening

Step 1. Washers

There are three washers that could be causing the tap to drip and may need replacing; the o-ring, the body washer and the jumper valve. These come in standard sizes, but to be sure that your replacement is correct take the worn washer into Bunnings.

Step 2. Replacing The Washer

1. Firstly make sure to turn off your water main in the house. Your water main will either be out on the street or in your front yard if you live in a house. If you live in a flat or townhouse the mains tap will probably be inside the bathroom or laundry.
2. Open the tap to release any water left in the pipe.
3. Place the plug in the basin to prevent any tap parts from disappearing into the drain.
4. Remove the tap's cover with a screwdriver on the handle to expose the screw. The screw is most likely under the hot or cold sign. Some taps will have screws positioned on the side.
5. Undo the screw and remove the handle.
6. If the tap is shrouded with a metal cover, unscrew by hand or use a wrench. Make sure to use a cloth over the cover to protect the chrome from scratching.
7. Use a spanner or wrench to unscrew the tap bonnet. Completely take out the headgear, you should now see the large body washer, the o-ring and the jumper valve.
8. The jumper valve will just fall out.
9. Replace the body washer, the o-ring and the jumper valve then refit bonnet & spindle - make sure not to over tighten the nuts.
10. Re-assemble the tap, close it and then open the water main.
11. Check that the leaking has ceased.

Step 3. Reseating A Tap

If your tap continues to leak after replacing the washers it will need to be reseated. Reseating resurfaces your tap, so that the washer has the tightest seal. The simplest way to do this is to purchase a reseating kit which generally comes with all of the washers and seals to simply reseat your tap.

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