How to change a washer on a hot bathroom tap
If you have noticed that your hot bathroom tap is leaking or dripping, chances are it’s time to change the washer. This is a common plumbing issue that can be easily fixed with a few simple steps. By following the instructions below, you can save yourself the hassle and expense of calling a plumber.
To change the washer on a hot bathroom tap, you will need a few tools. Start by turning off the water supply to the tap. You can usually find the shut-off valve under the sink. Once the water is turned off, use a screwdriver or Allen wrench to remove the handle of the tap. This will give you access to the cartridge or stem assembly.
Next, use a wrench or pliers to loosen and remove the nut that holds the cartridge or stem assembly in place. Once the nut is removed, carefully pull out the cartridge or stem assembly. You will see the old washer attached to the bottom of the cartridge or stem assembly. Use a flathead screwdriver or a pair of pliers to pry off the old washer.
With the old washer removed, it’s time to install the new one. Take the new washer and place it in the same position as the old one. Make sure it is centered and seated properly. Once the new washer is in place, reassemble the tap by following the steps in reverse order. Tighten the nut to secure the cartridge or stem assembly, reattach the handle, and turn on the water supply.
After completing these steps, test the hot tap to ensure that it no longer leaks or drips. If the issue persists, you may need to repeat the process or seek the help of a professional plumber. Remember, changing a washer on a hot bathroom tap is a simple task that can save you money and prevent further damage to your plumbing system.
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Step-by-step guide to changing a washer on a hot bathroom tap
Is your hot bathroom tap dripping and driving you crazy? Follow these simple steps to change the washer and fix the problem:
Step 1: Start by turning off the water supply to the tap. You can usually find a shut-off valve under the sink or near the water heater. Turn it clockwise to shut off the water flow.
Step 2: Once the water is turned off, open the tap to relieve any remaining pressure and to drain any water that may still be in the pipe.
Step 3: Cover the drain with a cloth or plug to prevent small parts from falling into it while you work.
Step 4: Use a screwdriver or an appropriate tool to remove the handle of the tap. This can usually be done by unscrewing or popping off a cap and removing the screw underneath.
Step 5: Take out the nut or collar that holds the handle in place. This may require a wrench or pliers, depending on the type of fastener used.
Step 6: Carefully lift off the handle to expose the cartridge or the valve. This is the part that needs a new washer.
Step 7: Use an adjustable spanner or a pair of pliers to unscrew the valve from the tap body. Be gentle and avoid damaging any other components.
Step 8: Take out the old washer from inside the valve and replace it with a new one of the same size and type. It’s a good idea to bring the old washer to the hardware store to ensure you get the correct replacement.
Step 9: Screw the valve back into the tap body and tighten it all the way using the adjustable spanner or pliers.
Step 10: Reassemble the handle, nut or collar, and any other parts you removed in the reverse order of how you took them off.
Step 11: Turn the water supply back on and check for any leaks. If everything looks good, your tap should be fixed, and the annoying drip should be gone.
Note: If you’re unsure or uncomfortable working with plumbing, it’s always best to call a professional.
Turning off the water supply
Before you begin changing the washer on your hot bathroom tap, it’s important to turn off the water supply to prevent any leaks or water damage. Here’s how you can do it:
- Locate the shut-off valve. The shut-off valve is typically located underneath the sink or near the hot water heater.
- Close the shut-off valve. Rotate the valve handle clockwise until it is fully closed. You may need to use a wrench or pliers to turn the valve if it’s difficult to move.
- Check if the water supply has been successfully turned off. Turn on the hot water tap in your bathroom to see if any water still flows. If no water comes out, then you have successfully turned off the water supply.
By following these steps to turn off the water supply, you can ensure that there won’t be any unwanted water flow while you work on changing the washer on your hot bathroom tap.
Removing the tap handle
The first step in changing the washer on a hot bathroom tap is to remove the tap handle. Follow these instructions to safely remove the tap handle:
- Locate the small screw or metal cap on top of the tap handle. It may be hidden beneath a decorative cover that can be popped off using a flathead screwdriver or your fingernail.
- Using a screwdriver, unscrew the small screw counterclockwise until it is no longer holding the tap handle in place. If the tap handle does not have a visible screw, it is likely a push-on type. In this case, gently lift and wiggle the handle until it comes off.
- Once the screw or handle is removed, you will expose the valve stem underneath. It may be a threaded stem or a spline type stem. Refer to the tap manufacturer’s instructions if you are not sure about the type of stem.
Note: Some tap handles may be secured with a locking nut instead of a screw. In this case, you will need to use an adjustable wrench or a pair of pliers to loosen and unscrew the locking nut.
After following these steps, the tap handle should be successfully removed, allowing you to proceed with changing the washer on your hot bathroom tap. Make sure to safely store the tap handle and any small parts you removed, so they don’t get misplaced or lost.
Replacing the washer
To replace the washer on a hot bathroom tap, follow these steps:
Step 1: Turn off the water supply
Before replacing the washer, it is important to turn off the water supply to the tap. Look for the isolation valve near the tap and turn it clockwise to shut off the water.
Step 2: Gather the tools
Make sure you have all the necessary tools before starting the replacement process. You will need a wrench, a screwdriver, and a new washer.
Step 3: Access the tap
Remove any decorative caps or covers on the tap handle to expose the screw that holds it in place. Use a screwdriver to remove the screw and take off the handle.
Step 4: Remove the valve stem
Using a wrench, loosen the packing nut located beneath the handle. Remove the valve stem by unscrewing it from the tap body. Take note of any markings or grooves on the stem for reassembly.
Step 5: Replace the washer
Remove the old washer from the valve seat at the end of the valve stem. Replace it with a new washer that matches the size and shape of the original. Ensure that the washer is properly seated and secure.
Step 6: Reassemble the tap
Reinsert the valve stem into the tap body and tighten the packing nut securely with a wrench. Place the handle back onto the valve stem and attach it with the screw. Replace any decorative caps or covers.
Step 7: Turn on the water supply
Turn the isolation valve counterclockwise to restore the water supply to the tap. Test the tap to ensure it is functioning properly. Check for any leaks and make adjustments if necessary.
By following these steps, you can easily replace the washer on a hot bathroom tap and maintain its proper functionality.
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