Ever noticed the incessant drip-drip sound from your tap that seems to echo through your home, especially during the quiet hours of the night? It’s not just a source of irritation; a dripping tap can significantly increase your water bill and lead to unnecessary wastage of water. The culprit behind this common household issue is often a faulty tap washer. In this post, I’ll walk you through the symptoms of a failing washer, explore the causes, provide a step-by-step guide on replacing it, and touch on when it might be time to call in a professional.
What is a Tap Washer?
A tap washer is a small disc, usually made from rubber, that forms a water-tight seal in your tap to prevent water from leaking when the tap is turned off. Positioned within the headgear assembly of the tap, this component is crucial for controlling water flow.
What Causes Tap Washer Damage?
The durability of tap washers can be compromised over time due to several factors:
- Regular wear and tear: Each time you turn your tap, the washer is pressed against the valve seat, causing gradual deterioration.
- Water quality: Hard water can lead to mineral buildup on the washer, reducing its efficiency and lifespan.
- Over-tightening: Consistently tightening the tap too much to prevent drips can deform the washer more quickly.
Symptoms of a Faulty Tap Washer
Recognising when your tap washer needs replacing is the first step towards fixing the problem. Here are some indicators:
- Constant dripping: The most obvious sign is a tap that drips despite being tightly closed.
- Reduced water pressure: Unexplained changes in water pressure might suggest an issue with a washer.
- Strange noises: A squealing or screeching sound when you turn the tap could indicate a stiff, perishing washer.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing a Tap Washer
Outlined below is a guide to help you replace a tap washer yourself. Remember, while DIY can be fulfilling and cost-effective, ensure you’re confident with your plumbing skills to avoid any mishaps.
1. Turn off Your Water Supply
Before you start, locate your home’s main stopcock and turn it off. This prevents water flowing to your taps.
2. Drain Existing Water
Open the tap to drain any water left in the pipes. This step ensures a dry work environment.
3. Dismantle the Tap
Use an adjustable spanner to loosen and remove the tap’s cover. Underneath, you will find a screw that holds the handle in place. Remove this screw and then carefully lift off the handle.
4. Remove the Headgear Nut
With the handle off, you’ll see a nut (headgear nut) securing the tap's body. Use a spanner to gently loosen and remove it. This will expose the washer.
5. Replace the Washer
Remove the old washer and replace it with a new one that matches the size and shape. Washers are inexpensive and available at hardware stores.
6. Reassemble the Tap
Once the new washer is securely in place, reassemble the tap by reversing the dismantling steps. Ensure everything is tight but not overly tightened.
7. Turn the Water Back On
Slowly turn your water supply back on and check the tap for leaks.
When to Call a Professional
If you’ve replaced your washer but the tap is still dripping, or if you encounter complications like a stripped screw or corroded parts, it might be time to call a professional plumber. Complex issues sometimes reveal underlying problems in your plumbing system that require expert intervention.
Long-term Prevention Strategies
To extend the life of your tap washers:
- Avoid over-tightening: Turn taps off gently to minimize wear.
- Regular checks: Inspect washers periodically for signs of deterioration.
- Water softener: Consider installing a water softener if you live in a hard water area.
Conclusion
A dripping tap is more than just an annoyance; it signifies that something within your tap mechanism isn’t functioning as it should. Most often, the issue can be resolved by replacing the tap washer—a simple and economical fix. However, remember that not all plumbing issues are straightforward, and sometimes, securing professional help is the best course of action to prevent future problems and additional expenses.
Whether you take on this task yourself or hire a professional, addressing a leaky tap promptly will save you money in the long run and contribute to a more sustainable household.
