Are you getting irritated with the mixer tap that keeps on dripping? You need to get the washer change. Either you are the owner of a home or a landlord.
Don’t panic if your bathroom tap is leaking and you have no idea how to change a tap washer on a mixer tap. It is very easy to do and will also save the budget from purchasing a new faucet.
A damaged washer is one of the most common reasons for a leaking tap. With time, daily use affects and results in a sudden dripping faucet. Generally, the solution is very easy: the washer is replaced with the new one by pulling the tap apart.
But it is more difficult to change a washer on the mixer tap. Most mixer taps are not equipped with washers. However, they contain a changeable cartridge.
In this article, we will focus on changing a washer on a mixer tap with the right understanding and knowledge.
What is a mixer tap?
Mostly you might just know it as a tap, but mixer taps are standard features in countless renovated houses and new homes.
In general, mixer taps possess one faucet with one tap handle. There is one handle to control both the cold and hot water, and it shares the same spout. A mixer might be something with one spout and two handles.
The mixer taps are versatile, like a single lever, pull-out or monobloc, and wall mounted. The mixers are regularly found in the bathroom and kitchen sink, including the shower, bathtub, and basin.
Rather than the traditional tap washer, there is a ceramic cartridge with two discs present inside. The upper disc moves with the handle, whereas the bottom disc is fixed, letting the flow of water.
As compared to rubber washers, ceramic disc cartridges are long-lasting; however, they are susceptible to leaks and cracks.
Take some time to go through our tips first before getting a wrench.
Tap washer or Ceramic Disc Cartridge?
There is a possibility that your tap uses a ceramic disc cartridge instead of a rubber washer if you have a modern tap.
Why would you need to change a Tap Washer?
A dripping tap is a total rage that is experienced by everyone. It won’t stop leaking no matter how much you have tightened it.
According to one of the bathroom experts, ” A tap washer causes most of the leaky taps, and people are not aware of this. The tap becomes less effective when they get old and wears off, so the only answer is to replace or change the tap washer”.
Where is the Tap washer located?
In general, a tap comprises two main parts, the tap washer and the seat. The washer is moved towards the seat and creates pressure when the tap is turned on.
This helps to move water out into the sink via the spout when the tap is turned off. The washer seals and prevents the flow of water in and out of the tap.
Unluckily, the tap washers are not durable and cause a leaky tap. Due to wear and tear, if the washer is unable to build an airtight seal, a very little amount of water will be permitted to move in and out of the spout.
The change of washer will help you to avoid any sort of leakage.
The new tap washers are affordable and easy to install. You can purchase them from any hardware shop. The washers are versatile and are available in a pack of 4, so there is no need to buy them occasionally.
How to change a Tap washer
Before starting with the process of changing a washer, make sure to check the standard taps. It is best to consult with experts or professionals if you are not unsure whether your tap is standard.
All the taps are different in working, so we are not 100% sure whether this will work for you or not.
What will you need?
All you need is some basic equipment and tools before starting the work.
Make sure to get the right tools for the specific plumbing work before you start the specific job. Ensure that you have everything on time.
You will need the following things for replacing the cartridge or tap washer mixer.
- Philips head screwdriver or Flathead screwdriver
- Replacement cartridge
- Pipe wrench
- Adjustable spanner/ Adjustable wrench
- Allen key
Remember to turn off the supply of water before you tackle any DIY fix. There is a turn-on/off valve, which is dependent on your installation system. On the other hand, turn the tap off at the boiler point. This helps in the prevention of flooding.
Another important point is that plumbers use drain covers or kitchen towels to cover the drain. This will help prevent any smaller parts or covers from falling.
Step 1
The main step is to turn off the supply of water unless you need to flood your kitchen or bathroom. Below the tap, there should be an isolation valve that turns off the water to that specific sink or either turns off the supply of water from the main if you don’t have any of these.
Step 2
The next step is to place the plug into the sink’s plug hole. This helps in the prevention of losing any components of tap or screws down the drain if you accidentally drop them.
It is better to use any old towel to avoid any damage to the surface or if you drop anything.
Step 3
Remove the cover with the help of a screwdriver. This helps in the exposure of the valve and is removed with the help of a spanner. Use a wrench if the valve is hard, but make sure to secure the tap by using a cloth.
Step 4
Use a nut or a screw to secure the tap washer present below the valve. Use a spanner to remove the tap washer, grease it with some oil, and let it soak in if it is difficult to undo.
Step 5
Change the worn, old washer with a new one of the same size.
Step 6
Assemble the tap again. Place the valve back carefully and make sure to avoid over tightening as it will damage the tap.
Step 7
Take the towel out of the sink and turn on the supply of water.
How much water does a dripping tap leak?
A leaking tap can charge more than 0.5 liters hourly, which equals 4380 liters annually or 12 liters daily. With time this can be very costly.
Why do I need to change my tap washer?
Tap washers become less effective with the passage of time because of normal wear and tear. So replacement is the only solution.
Where do I get a new tap washer?
New mixer tap washers are very affordable and are easily available at any hardware shop. They are versatile in sizes, so make sure to measure the size of your current tap washer to get the proper size.
How to prevent leaking taps?
Ceramic disc cartridges tap the best if you cant tolerate leakage or replace the tap washer. Ceramic disc cartridges are durable and long-lasting, and there is no need to change them frequently as compared to other compression washers.
Conclusion
A damaged washer is one of the most common reasons for a leaking tap. With time, daily use affects and results in a sudden dripping faucet. If your bathroom tap is leaking and you have no idea how to change a tap washer on a mixer tap. It is very easy to do and will also save the budget from purchasing a new faucet.
