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Does that constant drip, drip, drip from your mixer tap drive you mad? That seemingly minor annoyance costs more than just your sanity; it's throwing money straight down the drain. A single dripping tap wastes up to half a litre every hour, adding up to approximately 12 litres daily or over 4,000 litres each year. For Australian households already facing rising water costs and ongoing conservation challenges, this represents a serious waste of both resources and hard-earned cash.
The good news? Fixing that persistent drip is far easier than most people imagine. Think of a leaking mixer tap washer replacement as one of the simplest plumbing repairs you can tackle yourself. While that faulty tap might be sending thousands of litres of clean water down the drain annually, the solution often requires nothing more than a few basic tools and about 30 minutes of your time. Most importantly, if your tap uses a traditional washer mechanism (rather than a modern cartridge system), you can absolutely handle this repair without calling a professional.
This step-by-step guide covers everything you need to know about mixer tap washer replacement. You'll learn how to identify your specific tap type, gather the right tools, and complete the repair from start to finish. Whether you're tackling your first leaking tap or brushing up on essential home maintenance skills, these practical instructions will help you stop that wasteful drip once and for all.
Mixer taps have become the standard choice for Australian homes, offering the convenience of controlling both hot and cold water through a single spout. Before you start dismantling your tap, you need to understand exactly what you're working with. The repair approach depends entirely on whether your tap uses a traditional washer system or a modern cartridge mechanism.
Not all mixer taps are created equal. Two distinct systems dominate the market, each requiring different repair techniques.
Washer-based taps (sometimes called compression washer taps) operate through a simple but effective mechanism. A rubber or silicone washer compresses against a metal seat to control water flow. Turn the handle multiple times from off to fully on, and you'll feel the washer moving up or down against the tap seat. These taps remain common in older Australian homes and traditional-style fixtures. The design is straightforward, but those rubber washers inevitably wear down through regular use.
Cartridge-based taps represent a more sophisticated approach. Instead of relying on rubber washers, these modern fixtures contain ceramic disk cartridges. The ceramic disks slide against each other to manage both water flow and temperature. Most cartridge taps require only a quarter or half turn to operate fully, a significant advantage for anyone with limited hand mobility or arthritis.
The big question you need to answer first: Which system does your tap actually use?
Washer-based taps reveal themselves through their operation. If your tap requires multiple complete rotations to go from fully closed to fully open, you're dealing with a washer system. These taps often become progressively harder to turn off completely as the washer deteriorates.
Cartridge-based taps behave quite differently. They typically need only a quarter or half turn to operate fully. Look for sleek, minimalist designs; these almost always house ceramic cartridges. Does your mixer tap feature a single lever that moves side to side for temperature and up/down for flow? You've got a cartridge system.
Still not certain? Check your product manual or search online using your tap's brand and model. When in doubt, carefully remove the tap handle to inspect the internal mechanism directly.
Leaks occur for different reasons depending on your tap's internal mechanism.
Washer-based tap failures usually stem from worn-out washers. Regular use causes these rubber components to compress, harden, and eventually crack or split. Water then seeps through even when the tap appears closed. The more frequently you use the tap, the faster this wear occurs.
Cartridge-based tap problems typically involve the ceramic disks themselves. These can become worn, cracked, or misaligned over time. Mineral buildup from hard water, common in many Australian regions, accelerates this deterioration. Warning signs include stiff operation, jerky handle movement, or inconsistent water temperature and flow.
Other culprits include deteriorating O-rings (small rubber seals preventing water escape around the tap body) and excessive water pressure forcing water past otherwise intact seals.
Understanding your specific tap type and leak source determines whether a simple washer replacement will solve your problem or if more extensive repairs are necessary.
The right equipment makes all the difference between a smooth 30-minute repair and a frustrating afternoon spent hunting for the correct spanner. Getting organised upfront saves those annoying mid-job trips to Bunnings when you discover your adjustable spanner won't fit the tap's bonnet nut.
Most Australian households already have these essential tools tucked away in the garage or shed:
Adjustable spanners or wrenches form the backbone of this repair. You'll need two, one to steady the tap body while the other loosens stubborn fittings. Quality matters here, as cheap spanners can slip and damage your tap's finish.
Screwdrivers in various sizes handle the different screw types that tap manufacturers use. Keep both Phillips (cross-head) and flathead varieties handy, as brands like Caroma, Methven, and Phoenix each favour different fixing methods.
Replacement washers are obviously the star of the show; these small rubber discs will stop that costly drip. Take your old washer to the local hardware store to match the exact size and type. Can't remove it first? A mixed washer kit covers the most common sizes.
Pliers grip and extract worn washers that might be stubbornly stuck in place. Needle-nose pliers excel at reaching into tight spaces inside the tap assembly.
Soft cloth or an old towel protects chrome finishes from scratches while providing better grip on slippery handles, essential when dealing with wet fixtures.
Some taps haven't been serviced in years and require extra persuasion:
Penetrating oil (WD-40 works perfectly) loosens seized components that refuse to budge. Apply generously and wait several minutes before attempting to turn anything; patience pays off here.
Tap reseating tool becomes necessary when the tap seat (where the washer presses) shows pitting or damage. This specialised tool grinds the surface smooth, ensuring your new washer seals properly.
Plumber's grease extends repair life when applied sparingly to O-rings and moving parts. A small tube lasts for multiple repairs around the house.
Pipe wrench with protected jaws tackles particularly stubborn fittings, though use extreme caution around decorative finishes.
Even simple plumbing repairs benefit from basic safety preparation:
Towels placed strategically in the sink catch small parts before they disappear down the drain. They also cushion your fixtures from dropped tools, chrome dents easily.
BucketThe bucket
Rubber gloves protect your hands from sharp edges and keep you dry throughout the repair.
Safety glasses shield eyes from unexpected water sprays or debris when working with corroded components.
A stopcock key might be essential if your main water shutoff valve won't turn by hand; having one ready beats scrambling around while water flows freely.
Note: Most quality tool shops stock washer replacement kits with common sizes, saving multiple trips when you're unsure about specifications.
Ready to tackle that annoying drip? This straightforward repair process takes about 30 minutes and requires no special plumbing expertise. Follow these six essential steps to get your mixer tap working perfectly again.
Start by locating the isolation valves underneath your sink; these small taps control water flow to your mixer tap specifically. Turn both valves clockwise until they stop completely. Can't find isolation valves? You'll need to shut off your home's main water supply at the meter box, typically located near your front boundary.
Once the water's off, open your mixer tap fully to drain any remaining water from the pipes. This confirms you've successfully stopped the water flow and creates a safe, dry workspace.
Look for a small decorative cap or button on top of your tap handle. Gently pry this off with a flathead screwdriver to reveal the fixing screw underneath. Remove this screw using either a Phillips or flathead screwdriver, depending on your tap's design.
Lift the handle straight up and off the tap body. Stuck handle? A few drops of penetrating oil around the base usually do the trick; just wait a couple of minutes before trying again.
You'll now see the bonnet nut or valve cover beneath where the handle sat. Use your adjustable spanner to loosen this component by turning counterclockwise. Don't force it; steady pressure works better than brute strength.
With the bonnet nut removed, you can now see the spindle where your washer lives. Look at the bottom of this spindle for a small rubber disk; that's your culprit. Check for obvious signs of wear like cracks, hardening, or distortion.
Carefully remove the old washer using needle-nose pliers or a small flathead screwdriver. Note the exact size and thickness; this ensures your replacement fits perfectly.
Position the new washer in the same spot, making sure it sits completely flat. A thin coating of plumber's grease on the washer helps create a better seal and extends its working life.
Work backwards through your disassembly steps. Insert the spindle back into the tap body, then hand-tighten the bonnet nut before snugging it up with your spanner. Avoid over-tightening, which can damage the threads or compress the washer too much.
Replace the handle, secure it with the screw, and snap the decorative cap back into place.
Slowly restore water pressure by turning your isolation valves counterclockwise. If you used the main supply, open it gradually to avoid sudden pressure surges.
Run the tap for 30 seconds to flush any debris that might have entered during the repair. Close the tap and watch carefully for drips. Your new washer should create a perfect seal, stopping that wasteful leak completely.
You've followed every step perfectly, installed a brand-new washer, and yet that annoying drip persists. Don't panic, this doesn't mean you've failed at the repair. Instead, it's telling you something important: your tap probably uses a ceramic cartridge system rather than a traditional washer mechanism.
Modern Australian homes increasingly feature cartridge-based taps, which require a completely different repair approach. Understanding the difference can save you hours of frustration and unnecessary repeat work.
Cartridge taps have several distinctive characteristics that set them apart from traditional washer systems. Most obviously, these taps operate with just a quarter-turn or half-turn movement, creating smooth, effortless control. You'll often find a single lever design that adjusts both water flow and temperature with simple movements.
When you remove the handle during your initial inspection, the internal mechanism looks quite different, too. Rather than the simple spindle and washer setup, you'll discover a larger cylindrical or rectangular component, which is your ceramic cartridge.
The operational feel provides another clear indicator. Cartridge taps move smoothly without the gradual resistance you experience when operating traditional washer taps. If water continues leaking from around the handle area (not just the spout) after your washer replacement, this almost certainly confirms a cartridge system.
Cartridge replacement follows similar initial steps but with important differences. Start with the same water shutoff and handle removal process you've already learned. However, instead of accessing a simple washer, you'll need to locate the retaining nut or collar securing the cartridge in place.
Remove this retaining mechanism using your adjustable spanner, then carefully extract the entire cartridge. Important: Note the cartridge's exact orientation before removal, as incorrect installation will prevent proper operation.
Take your old cartridge to a local plumbing supplier for exact matching. Cartridges are highly specific to particular tap models and brands. Once you've sourced the correct replacement, install it in precisely the same orientation as the original, reassemble the tap components, and restore your water supply.
Sometimes the most practical solution involves replacing the entire tap fixture. This approach makes sense when replacement cartridges are unavailable for discontinued tap models, a common issue with older or imported fixtures.
Extensive tap body corrosion or damaged internal valve seats also justify complete replacement over repair attempts. Additionally, if your tap exhibits multiple simultaneous problems, the combined repair costs often exceed replacement expenses.
Consider this an opportunity to upgrade to a more water-efficient model. Modern taps can significantly reduce your household's water consumption, providing long-term savings that offset the initial investment. For Australian households focused on water conservation and cost management, this upgrade often proves financially beneficial within just a few years.
What happens when you've followed every step perfectly, but that annoying drip refuses to stop? Sometimes even a properly replaced washer won't solve the problem, and understanding why saves you time, frustration, and unnecessary water waste.
Persistent dripping after washer replacement usually points to deeper issues within your tap mechanism. Start by examining the tap seat, that's the brass surface your new washer presses against to create the seal. Years of use can leave this surface corroded, pitted, or uneven, preventing even a perfect washer from sealing properly.
A damaged tap seat requires reseating with a specialised tool that grinds the surface smooth again. Without this step, you'll find yourself replacing washers repeatedly without solving the underlying problem.
Consider whether your tap might actually use a cartridge system instead of traditional washers. Modern Australian homes often feature these newer mechanisms, which require completely different repair approaches.
Note: For persistent leaks or complex plumbing issues, contact Plumberoo for professional plumbing services and expert advice to ensure your taps function properly.
Several errors can sabotage even your best repair efforts:
• Wrong washer size – Always match your replacement exactly to the original diameter and thickness
• Incomplete water shutoff – Failing to fully close isolation valves creates a messy, dangerous workspace
• Improper reassembly – Misaligned parts or inadequately tightened components cause immediate failures
Tool damage – Never use bare metal tools on chrome surfaces; always wrap spanners with cloth
• Overtightening – Excessive force when reassembling can crack components or strip threads
Want to minimise future repairs? These simple practices protect your investment and reduce maintenance frequency.
Handle your taps gently; aggressive turning damages internal mechanisms faster than normal wear. Think of it as equipment that responds better to finesse than force.
Monitor your home's water pressure regularly. Excessive pressure strains washers, seals, and other components unnecessarily. Australian homes sometimes experience pressure spikes that can overwhelm even quality fittings, so consider installing a pressure regulator if readings consistently exceed recommended levels.
Address small drips immediately rather than hoping they'll resolve themselves. Minor leaks indicate early component wear; fixing them promptly prevents more expensive problems later.
Regular visual inspections help identify potential issues before they become serious. A quick monthly check of all taps takes minutes but can save significant water waste and repair costs down the track.
Mastering this straightforward mixer tap repair puts you in control of both water conservation and household maintenance costs. With the right tools and clear instructions, what once seemed like a job for professionals becomes an achievable 30-minute DIY task. The key lies in correctly identifying your tap type first; washer-based systems require different approaches than modern ceramic cartridge mechanisms.
Simple preventive measures will keep your repairs working effectively for years to come. Handle your taps gently, address small drips before they worsen, and monitor your home's water pressure to protect internal components. However, some complex plumbing issues go beyond basic washer replacement. When multiple repair attempts fail or you encounter problems beyond your comfort level, don't hesitate to contact Plumberoo for professional plumbing services and expert advice.
Learning essential home maintenance skills like this builds confidence for tackling future household challenges. The satisfaction of stopping that irritating drip yourself, while knowing you're doing your part for water conservation, makes this knowledge invaluable. Your success with mixer tap repairs might just inspire you to expand your DIY capabilities even further.
Master this essential DIY skill to stop wasting thousands of litres of water annually while saving money on plumber calls and water bills.
• Identify your tap type first - Washer taps need multiple turns to operate, while cartridge taps require only quarter-turns
• Gather proper tools beforehand - Adjustable spanners, screwdrivers, replacement washers, and safety items prevent mid-job delays
• Follow the six-step process - Turn off water, remove handle, access the washer, replace it, reassemble, and test thoroughly
• Know when it's not the washer - Persistent leaks may indicate ceramic cartridge issues requiring different repair approaches
• Practice preventive maintenance - Handle taps gently, address drips immediately, and check water pressure to extend component life
A single dripping tap wastes over 4,000 litres annually, but this simple 30-minute repair can eliminate that waste. When in doubt about complex issues, don't hesitate to consult professional plumbing services for expert guidance.
Q1. Can I replace the washers in my mixer tap myself?
Yes, you can replace washers in mixer taps yourself. It's a relatively simple process that involves turning off the water supply, removing the tap handle, accessing the washer, replacing it with a new one of the same size, and reassembling the tap. This DIY repair can often fix a leaking tap and save water.
Q2. How do I stop my kitchen mixer tap from dripping?
To stop a dripping kitchen mixer tap, first identify whether it uses a washer or cartridge system. For washer-based taps, replacing the worn washer often solves the problem. After replacement, turn the water supply back on and test the tap to ensure there are no more leaks. If the dripping persists, there might be other issues requiring further inspection.
Q3. What tools do I need to change a washer on a mixer tap?
To change a washer on a mixer tap, you'll need basic tools such as adjustable spanners, screwdrivers (both Phillips and flathead), replacement washers, pliers, and a soft cloth. Optional tools for stubborn parts include penetrating oil and a tap reseating tool. Don't forget safety items like towels, a bucket, rubber gloves, and safety glasses.
Q4. How can I tell if my tap uses a washer or a cartridge system?
You can identify your tap type by its operation. Washer-based taps typically require multiple complete turns to go from fully closed to fully open. Cartridge-based taps usually need only a quarter or half turn to operate fully. Additionally, if your tap has a single lever that moves side to side for temperature and up and down for flow, it likely uses a cartridge system.
Q5. When should I consider replacing the entire tap instead of just the washer?
Consider replacing the entire tap if replacement cartridges are unavailable for your model, if the tap body shows significant corrosion, or if the internal valve seats are damaged beyond repair. Also, if your tap experiences multiple issues simultaneously, making repairs more expensive than replacement, or if you want to upgrade to a more water-efficient model, a full replacement might be the best option.