How do I replace the washer on a leaking tap?
Many faucets nowadays are washerless so this problem is often avoided. But with older faucets or older technology faucets, it’s usually a pretty simple job. Here are some basic directions: * Turn off the water supply (there should be a shut off valve just under the sink) * With a traditional pillar tap, unscrew the metal cover, either by hand or using a wrench, to expose the headgear underneath * On modern style taps the cover can be removed by unscrewing a retaining nut, usually found under the hot/cold disc on the top of the tap * Using a spanner, unscrew the headgear until you can remove the complete assembly * The washer is either located at the base of the headgear assembly, attached to a ‘jumper’, or is lying inside of the tap base * To replace either prise the washer loose with a screwdriver or if applicable remove the jumper retaining nut holding it in place * If the washer will not prise free then it may be necessary to replace the entire jumper unit * Reassemble the tap unit
