Olivia Carter
If you have a leaking or dripping kitchen mixer tap, it may be time to change the washers. Over time, the washers can wear out or become damaged, causing water to leak from the tap. Thankfully, changing the washers on modern kitchen mixer taps is a relatively simple task that can be done by most homeowners with basic DIY skills.
Before you start, you will need a few tools and materials. You will need an adjustable spanner, a screwdriver, replacement washers (ensure they are the correct size and type for your tap), and some plumber’s tape. It’s also a good idea to have a bucket or towel handy to catch any excess water.
To begin, turn off the water supply to the tap. There is usually a valve located beneath the sink that you can turn clockwise to shut off the water. Once the water supply is turned off, turn on the tap to release any remaining water in the system. This will help prevent any accidental leaks during the process. Now you can remove the tap handle by unscrewing the small screw located at the base of the handle. Use a screwdriver to do this.
Once the handle is removed, you will see the cartridge or cartridge housing. This is where the washers are located. Use the adjustable spanner to unscrew the cartridge housing. Be careful not to damage any other parts of the tap while doing this. Once the cartridge housing is removed, you can access the washers. Check the condition of the washers and replace any that are worn or damaged.
Before you reinstall the cartridge housing, apply some plumber’s tape to the thread to create a watertight seal. Then, screw the cartridge housing back into place using the adjustable spanner. Make sure it is tightened securely, but be careful not to overtighten. Once the cartridge housing is back in place, reattach the tap handle by screwing it back onto the base. Make sure it is aligned properly and the small screw is tightened.
Finally, turn the water supply back on and test the tap. If there are no more leaks, you have successfully changed the washers on your kitchen mixer tap. If the problem persists, it’s best to consult a professional plumber for further assistance.
By following these steps, you can easily change the washers on modern kitchen mixer taps and fix any leaks or drips. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs will help extend the life of your tap and prevent any water damage to your kitchen.
Step-by-Step Guide to Changing Washers on Modern Kitchen Mixer Taps
Is your kitchen mixer tap leaking? It might be time to change the washers. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of changing washers on modern kitchen mixer taps.
What You Will Need
- Adjustable wrench
- Screwdriver
- New washers
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
The first thing you need to do is turn off the water supply to the tap. Locate the valves underneath the sink and turn them clockwise to shut off the water.
Step 2: Remove the Tap Handle
Use the screwdriver to remove the screw that is holding the tap handle in place. Once the screw is removed, carefully lift the handle off the tap.
Step 3: Access the Cartridge
Once the handle is removed, you will be able to access the cartridge. Use the adjustable wrench to loosen the nut and remove the cartridge from the tap.
Step 4: Replace the Washers
Inspect the washers on the cartridge and check for any signs of damage or wear. If they need to be replaced, carefully remove them and replace them with the new washers.
Step 5: Reassemble the Tap
After replacing the washers, reassemble the tap by following the steps in reverse order. Make sure the cartridge is securely in place and tighten the nut with the adjustable wrench.
Step 6: Turn On the Water Supply
Once the tap is reassembled, turn on the water supply by turning the valves underneath the sink counterclockwise. Check for any leaks and make sure the tap is functioning properly.
By following these simple steps, you can easily change the washers on your modern kitchen mixer tap and fix any leaks. Remember to always turn off the water supply before starting any plumbing work and use the appropriate tools for the job. If you are unsure or uncomfortable with DIY plumbing, it is best to consult a professional.
Preparation: Gathering the Necessary Tools
Before you start changing washers on your modern kitchen mixer taps, it’s important to gather all the necessary tools. Having everything you need on hand will make the process much smoother and more efficient.
Here are the tools you will need:
- Adjustable wrench or spanner: This tool will be used to loosen and tighten the nuts and bolts on the tap.
- Screwdriver: You will need a screwdriver to remove any screws that are holding the tap in place.
- Pliers: Pliers can be helpful for gripping and holding small parts securely.
- New washers: Make sure you have the correct size and type of washers for your specific mixer tap.
- Towel or cloth: Keep a towel or cloth nearby to clean up any spills or water that may be released during the repair process.
- Bucket or basin: It’s a good idea to have a bucket or basin handy to catch any water that may come out when you disconnect the tap.
Once you have gathered these tools, you will be ready to move on to the next step – safely shutting off the water supply. It’s important to follow each step carefully to ensure a successful repair.
Shutting Off the Water Supply
Before you begin changing the washers on your modern kitchen mixer taps, it is important to shut off the water supply to prevent any leaks or water damage. Here are the steps to follow:
- Locate the water supply valves: In most kitchens, you will find two shut-off valves beneath the sink, one for hot water and one for cold water. These valves are usually located on the wall or on the back of the cabinet.
- Turn off the water supply: Using a wrench or pliers, turn the valves clockwise until they are fully closed. This will shut off the water supply to the kitchen mixer taps.
- Test the water supply: After shutting off the valves, turn on the kitchen taps to ensure that the water supply is completely off. If no water comes out, you have successfully shut off the water supply.
Note: If you are unable to locate the shut-off valves, you may need to shut off the main water supply to your home. Consult a plumber or your local water authority for assistance.
By shutting off the water supply, you can safely proceed with changing the washers on your modern kitchen mixer taps without the risk of any water leaks or damage.
Disassembling the Kitchen Mixer Tap
To change the washers on your modern kitchen mixer taps, you will need to first disassemble the tap. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
1. Turn off the water supply
Before you start working on your kitchen mixer tap, make sure to turn off the water supply. Look for the isolating valves located under the sink and turn them clockwise to shut off the water.
2. Prepare your tools
Gather all the necessary tools you will need for the disassembly process. This may include a wrench, pliers, screwdriver, and a cloth or towel to protect the sink from scratches.
3. Remove the handle
Start by removing the handle of your kitchen mixer tap. This can usually be done by locating the screw underneath the handle and using a screwdriver or Allen key to unscrew it. Once the screw is loosened, gently pull the handle upwards to remove it.
4. Unscrew the cartridge
Once the handle is removed, you will be able to see the cartridge. Use a wrench or pliers to unscrew the cartridge in a counterclockwise direction. Be careful not to force it if it’s tight; using a little bit of lubricant may help loosen it.
5. Remove the old washers
With the cartridge removed, you can now access the old washers. Carefully remove them using your fingers or a pair of pliers. Make sure to pay attention to the position and orientation of the washers for when you install the new ones.
6. Clean the components
Before installing the new washers, it’s a good idea to clean the various components of your kitchen mixer tap. Use a cloth or towel to wipe away any debris or residue that may have accumulated.
Tip: If there is any limescale build-up, you can soak the components in a descaling solution for a few minutes and then scrub them with a soft brush.
7. Install the new washers
Take the new washers and place them in the correct position, matching the orientation of the old ones. Ensure they fit snugly without any gaps or overlaps.
8. Reassemble the tap
Once the new washers are in place, carefully reassemble the tap by following the disassembly steps in reverse order. Make sure to tighten the cartridge securely but avoid over-tightening it. Then reattach the handle and tighten the screw underneath.
Your kitchen mixer tap should now be ready to use again. Turn on the water supply and test for any leaks or issues. If everything is working properly, you have successfully changed the washers on your modern kitchen mixer tap!
Replacing the Washers and Reassembling the Tap
Once you have successfully removed the old washers, it is time to replace them with new ones. Start by ensuring that you have the correct size and type of washers for your kitchen mixer tap.
1. Take one of the new washers and position it correctly on the valve seat. Make sure the washer is seated properly and fits snugly against the seat.
2. Repeat the process for the second washer, ensuring it fits securely on the other valve seat.
3. Carefully reinsert the valve stems back into their respective holes in the tap body. Make sure the stems go in straight and are fully inserted.
4. Tighten the retaining nuts onto the valve stems using a wrench or adjustable pliers, making sure they are tightened securely but not overly tight.
5. Reattach the tap handles onto the valve stems, aligning them properly before tightening the screws or bolts that hold them in place.
6. Once you have reassembled the tap, turn on the water supply and check for any leaks. If you notice any leaks, try tightening the retaining nuts or replacing the washers again.
Additional Tips:
– It is recommended to replace both washers at the same time, even if one of them appears to be in better condition than the other. This helps ensure a proper seal and prevent future leaks.
– Take note of the position and orientation of any rubber or plastic seals that may be present, and make sure to reassemble them accordingly.
Caution: If you are not comfortable working with plumbing fixtures or if you encounter any difficulties during the process, it is advisable to seek assistance from a professional plumber.
FAQ
What are the signs that my kitchen mixer tap washers need to be changed?
There are several signs that indicate your kitchen mixer tap washers may need to be changed. These include leaks, dripping water, difficulty in turning the tap handle, or reduced water pressure. If you notice any of these signs, it is likely time to change the washers.
How often should I change the washers on my modern kitchen mixer tap?
The frequency of changing the washers on your modern kitchen mixer tap depends on several factors, such as the quality of the previous washers, the amount of usage, and the water hardness. In general, it is recommended to change the washers every 1-2 years or whenever you start experiencing any issues mentioned earlier.
