Introduction

Welcome to the ultimate guide on changing tap washers in Australia. This article will show you every step of the way, from dealing with a drop from the ceiling to annual maintenance. With descriptive guidelines and practical suggestions, you will be able to fix the common water issues at home.

Tools and Materials Needed

Indispensable Equipment for the Task

To change a tap washer successfully, there are a few basic tools that you’ll require. Ensure you have a tube spanner or an adjustable shifter, pointy nose pliers, and replacement tap washers. The correct size of the washer is essential; generally, indoor taps require 13mm washers while outdoor ones may vary. These tools will make your work smooth.

Materials Needed

1. Tap washers replacements (that perfectly fit the taps)
2. Plumbers tape or thread sealant (it can prevent leaks, but it’s optional)
3. A piece of cloth or towel to catch possible water drops
4. A bucket or container to collect any excess water
5. Pen and paper (optional for writing down any specific details/measurements)

Preparing to Change the Tap Washer

The first step is to switch off the mains or even your stopcock. You can also turn off the water supply at the hot water system for hot water taps. Do not forget to open your tap so that any remaining water in the pipes can be drained out. This will also relieve pressure on the valve and seat.

Step 1: Draining the Pipes

After shutting down the main water supply, one must open a tap allowing any trapped water to flow out of it. This measure will both impede excessive spillages during washer installations and reduce plumbing pressure to make disassembling easy.

Step 2: Removing the Tap Components

Accessing the Tap Mechanism

Unassemble the tap after closing all valve shut-offs and draining any remaining water in the pipes. Start by removing a screw under a decorative cap or tap button that holds a handle. After removal, you may proceed with removing the handle itself.

Loosening and Removing the Tap Components

To complete this task, you may need to remove other covers such as the flanges and skirt of your tap. Use an appropriate tool to loosen and unscrew it from its breach. You should be especially careful with these parts because you will have to put them back together afterward.

Step 3: Replacing the Tap Washer

Selecting the Correct Tap Washer

Before putting in place a new washer, ensure you have chosen the right dimensions. The most common size for garden taps varies, whereas indoor taps usually use 13mm washers. Take measurements of your existing washer if you are unsure about its size or ask your local hardware store for assistance.

Step 4: Installing the New Tap Washer

Do not forget to carefully fit a new washer into the hole at the end of the spindle inside locating the hole of the seat holder using pointy nose pliers where one has been particularly worn or dislodged from the seat before installing a new one.

Reassembling and Testing

Reassembling the Tap Components

With this done reinsert the spindle back into the breach then turn it on to tighten. Attach the handle temporarily and turn off the tap in preparation for testing.

Testing the Tap

Before reassembling the tap completely, test for any leaks by turning on the water supply. Carefully open the tap and check if water is leaking out of the spindle or handle. If there are no leaks, you can proceed with adding back the button, skirt, or flange of your tap.

Fully Reassembling the Tap

After confirming that there are no leaks, screw back the tap button clockwise onto the spindle. Ensure it is tightened securely. Similarly, if applicable, return the flanges and skirts of your taps.

Turning On the Water Supply

When all parts are tightly fitted together again, you may now turn on the water supply at either the mains or the meter. Open the tap gently to let water flow via it and see if there is any leakage that occurs. Once no leakages have been observed and the faucet is functioning well, then you have done it right.

Cleaning Up

Any water left or dirt that has accumulated during this procedure should be removed accordingly. Properly dispose of unwanted spares such as washers.

Remember: whenever you get stuck or want to be correct about anything here; kindly consult an expert plumber to help you complete it successfully.

Turning On the Water Supply

Turn on the water supply gradually and check for leaks at the spigot. If you witness any trickling, tighten the connections some more. Then set back all other remaining parts including flange and push button: make sure that they are firmly tightened.

Lastly, switch the tap on and off to ascertain proper operation. If there are no leaks and it is functioning properly then you have succeeded in replacing a tap washer. Properly dispose of all waste materials and pieces as well as clear any mess that might have been caused in this process.

In case you are not certain or do not feel at ease with any step of the procedure it is advisable to get directions from a professional plumber.

Changing Tap Water Effortlessly

Now, you know the procedural instructions and materials as well as the tools required for this task. Turning off the water supply, getting ready work area, taking the tap handle away with the bonnet, accessing and changing washers, and reassembling taps.

These are covered in the guide too. Additionally, it also tells how one can get ready to change the washer such as turning off the water supply to your house or draining all pipes in your house before starting these changes.

This text gives a guide on how to replace an Australian-type tap washer step by step. It covers how to access and remove worn tap washer components; choose and fit new washers; assemble taps again and test them; and lastly, clean up afterward. It also advises consulting a professional plumber if unsure or uncomfortable with any step of the process.

Last Updated on January 31, 2024 by Mehak