How To Change A Tap Washer Australia (5 Easy Steps)

When a tap washer is worn out, it's important to replace it to avoid leakage that wastes water and will only get worse. As with any plumbing-related job, it's important to do the work correctly to ensure everything functions properly and safely when you have finished.

With that in mind, we have compiled this guide to changing a tap washer in Australia, taking into account some of the specific considerations for the region. Read on to learn more.

As plumbing is a licensed trade in Australia, you should be aware of the laws and regulations in your state. Some plumbing work that is legal in one state may not be in another, so you must check first.

In fact, many of the plumbing jobs that a DIYer may want to do themselves are not permitted in Australia. If you breach these rules, there could be serious consequences.

If you find you are permitted to carry out this work in your state, you will need a few basic tools to get the job done:

• Tube spanner/adjustable shifter
• New tap washer(s)
• Pointy nose pliers
• Screwdriver (for certain types of tap)

Step 1: Turn off the water

You must switch off the water at the mains/water meter. Some taps will have stop valves under the bench in the kitchen. If it's only the hot tap that needs work, you should be able to simply switch off your hot water system. Turning off at the mains is the safest option. Open the tap to drain any water lingering in the pipes.

This can usually be found inside the tap by removing the cover of the handle. For some taps, you may need to get underneath the surface they're installed on to remove them. Once inside the mechanism, remove the spring (if there is one) and the flange cover plate. You can then loosen the spindle and unscrew it to completely remove the unit from the beach.

If the washer is very worn, it may stay dislodged in the seat. Use pliers to remove all of it to ensure a clean, clear surface for installing the one one. When the seat is clear, place the new washer in the locating hole at the end of the spindle. You can now reinsert the spindle into the breach and tighten it back up. You can now sit the handle on the spindle and close the tap.

Before fully fixing the tap back on, you can test the new washer. Turn the mains back on and open the tap, checking carefully for any leakage around the washer. If all is well, you can remove the handle and reinstall the flange and spring before fixing the handle back in place with the screw on the button nut.

From here, be sure to keep monitoring the tap when you use it. It's unlikely there will be any leakage after your initial successful test, but it's wise to pay attention for the first day after replacing.

So there you have it - replacing a tap washer in Australia is a fairly simple DIY job (as long as you are permitted to do it in your state).

If you're in the Byron Bay region and need help getting this job done, you can rely on Cape Byron Plumbing to get the job done.

Our friendly team will arrange a visit from a plumber who will get the job done in no time.

Contact us today to book an appointment.