Leaking taps can waste a lot of water and significantly increase your water bills. If the tap is outdoors, the water could also damage the foundation of the house. You need to find a solution to the leakage problem as early as possible. The most common reason for the leakage is damaged washer. Replacing the washers in an outdoor tap is the first place to start when trying to stop the leaking spout.
Many people are searching to find a convincing answer to the question how to change a washer on a tap. Leaky outdoor faucets are a source of damp soil right next to the foundation of your home. While this may be good for your landscaped plants, the leaking is a waste of water and will only get worse with time and further wear. Fix the leak so that when you turn off the water, the area under the tap stays dry and you’re not paying money for water you’re not using.
If you follow the correct method of approach, the process of replacing washer becomes an easy and simple task. Here are step by step instructions on how to change a washer on a tap:
Step One
Turn off the water to the tap from inside the house – usually in the basement. Turn the faucet on to allow remaining water in the pipe to drain, and to check that there is no further water flow.
Step Two
Unscrew the nut that holds the valve assembly in place, usually just after the twist handle. Use an adjustable wrench to get a firm grip and turn the large nut counter-clockwise until it loosens and you can unscrew it.
Step Three
Remove the valve assembly from the plumbing. Look at the inner end of the assembly for the small screw holding everything together. Use a small screwdriver to remove it; depending on the manufacturer and the age of the faucet, this may require either a slotted or a Phillips screwdriver.
Step Four
Pry the old washer off with a small eyeglass screwdriver or the tip of a pocketknife. Take the old washer with you when you go shopping so you can get an exact replica to fit your tap.
Step Five
Apply a small amount of plumber’s grease to the washer on both sides. Slide the new washer in place and replace the screw holding the assembly together. Place the valve assembly back on the stem sticking out of the wall and twist the nut to hold it together. Tighten the nut with the adjustable wrench until snug. The process of washer replacement ends with this step.
If you need to replace your garden tap or any other plumbing fixtures you can look in your local hardware store or use an online shop like bathroom superstore where you can get free delivery and save quite a bit on high street costs.