Dripping taps can drive anyone crazy. Beyond the constant sound disrupting your sleep, a single dripping tap wastes around 30 litres of water per day, adding up to thousands of litres — and a noticeably higher water bill — every year. Fixing a dripping tap is more straightforward than many Canberra homeowners realise, and in most cases, you do not need to be a plumbing expert to handle it yourself.
This guide will show you exactly how to change a tap washer, help you understand what type of tap you have, and explain clearly when it is worth calling a licensed Canberra plumber instead.
What Is a Tap Washer and What Does It Do?
A tap washer is a small disc fitted inside a traditional compression tap that acts as a sealing mechanism against the tap seat. When you turn the tap handle to the “off” position, the spindle moves downward, forcing the washer firmly against the metal valve seat and creating a watertight seal that stops water from flowing through. When tap washers work properly, they provide a clean shutoff every time you close your tap, thanks to the watertight seal they form.
Think of it like a worn rubber bung in a bottle: when it is new and pliable, it seals perfectly. Over time, constant compression, heat, and water erosion cause the washer to harden, crack, or flatten. Once that happens, it can no longer press firmly enough against the seat, and the result is that familiar, persistent drip.
Different materials and types are used for tap washers depending on the tap’s age and usage:
- Rubber: Standard rubber washers are shaped like a ring with cornered edges and are common in traditional taps. They are soft and create an excellent initial seal, but can crack or perish over time due to heat and friction.
- Jumper valve washers: These have a flat side and a curved side and are built into the jumper valve for specific tap styles. A split or damaged jumper valve washer can cause taps to leak, so inspecting or replacing this part is important during repairs.
- O-ring washers: O rings are similar to rubber washers but have round edges and are used in various tap systems. They are also commonly replaced to fix leaks or faults.
- Nylon: High strength and low friction, making it more durable for frequently used taps.
- Vulcanised fibre: Expands when wet, creating a naturally snug seal.
- Ceramic disc: Ceramic washers are typically found in modern tap systems and are more durable than traditional rubber washers. Found in modern quarter-turn taps; these require full cartridge replacement rather than a simple washer swap.
Signs Your Tap Washer Needs Replacing
If your taps are working fine, there is nothing you need to do. However, some clear signs indicate it is time to inspect or replace the washer:
- A persistent drip from the spout after the tap is fully closed
- Difficulty turning the tap completely off, or needing to over-tighten the handle to stop the flow
- The tap handle feels loose or turns without fully stopping the water
- Any visible mineral build-up or discolouration around the tap outlet
Replacing a worn tap washer is considered one of the simplest and most cost-effective DIY plumbing tasks. It is important to replace tap washers promptly to prevent leaking taps, water waste, and potential water damage.
Tap washers should ideally be replaced every one to two years as a preventive measure, even if no drip is visible yet. Regular maintenance like this can help avoid leaks and significantly prolong the life of your taps.
Types of Taps in Canberra Homes
Understanding which tap you have is essential before attempting any repair. In Australian households, there are different types of taps found in Canberra homes, including standard taps, bathroom taps, and cold water taps, each with their own maintenance needs. Three main types are common:
Traditional Compression Taps: These are standard taps that use a tap washer to control water flow. They are often found as cold taps and hot taps in bathrooms and other areas. Bathroom taps of this type are common in older homes and require periodic washer replacement.
Ceramic Disc Taps: These modern taps use ceramic discs instead of washers. Some are designed for a soft turn operation, which helps reduce wear on washers and provides smoother control. Bathroom taps with ceramic discs are popular in contemporary renovations.
Mixer Taps: These combine hot and cold water in a single spout and can be found in both kitchens and bathrooms. Mixer taps may use either washers or ceramic discs, depending on the design.
Standard taps are those that use washers, while bathroom taps can be either traditional or modern, depending on the installation. The table below compares the different types:
1. Traditional Compression Taps
These are the classic style requiring multiple full rotations to open or close. They use a rubber or neoprene washer that compresses against the valve seat. Traditional compression taps often contain a jumper valve, which houses the washer and plays a crucial role in sealing the tap. Compression taps are particularly common in older Canberra homes and can be found in bathrooms, kitchens, laundries, and gardens. Changing the washer in these taps is straightforward and effective.
2. Ceramic Disc Taps (Quarter-Turn or Half-Turn Taps)
These modern taps use two smooth ceramic discs that rotate against each other to control water flow, rather than using a replaceable rubber washer. They turn just a quarter or half-turn from fully off to fully on. When leaks occur, the entire cartridge needs replacing — not just a washer.
3. Mixer Taps
Common in newer Canberra kitchens and bathrooms, mixer taps combine hot and cold water through a single lever and also rely on ceramic cartridges. If a mixer tap drips, cartridge replacement is required and is more complex for beginners.
| Tap Type | How to Identify | Fix Required |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional Compression | Multiple full rotations to open/close | Replace washer |
| Ceramic Disc | Quarter or half-turn to open/close | Replace cartridge |
| Mixer | Single lever, controls hot and cold | Replace cartridge |
This guide focuses on traditional compression taps. If you have a ceramic disc or mixer tap, see the section on calling a professional below.
Tools and Materials You Will Need
Gather these items before you begin – it makes the job considerably quicker:
- Adjustable spanner or adjustable wrench: For loosening and tightening the tap bonnet and other nuts or fittings
- Screwdriver (Phillips or flat screwdriver): To remove the tap handle screw or the tap button (hot/cold indicator)
- Allen key: Required for removing grub screws on some tap handles, such as lever or pin handles
- Replacement washer: Usually 12mm, but bring the old washer to Bunnings or your local hardware store to match the size exactly. Always choose a suitable washer that matches the original size and type for your tap, and opt for quality materials to ensure durability and reliability.
- Tap valve repair kit: Contains washers, O-rings, and other parts for comprehensive tap repairs and restoring proper function
- Pliers: For removing stubborn or stuck washers
- Cloth or rag: To protect chrome or brass finishes from tool scratches, and to block the drain so small parts don’t disappear
- Small bucket or towel: To catch residual drips
- Penetrating oil (optional): Invaluable for loosening a corroded or seized tap bonnet
A handy tip from experience: take a photo on your phone at each disassembly step. It makes reassembly far easier, particularly when you are working under a sink in an awkward position.
How to Change a Tap Washer: Step by Step
Follow these steps carefully and you will have the drip fixed within 20 to 30 minutes.
- Turn off the mains water supply. Locate your water meter or isolation valve – usually outside the home or under the sink. Turn it clockwise until completely closed. Open the tap fully to drain any residual water from the pipes. This is the essential first step before you replace a tap washer.
- Prepare your work area. Place a towel or small bucket under the tap to catch drips. Block the sink or basin drain with a cloth to prevent small parts from falling in.
- Remove the tap handle. Pop off the decorative cap on top of the handle with a flat-head screwdriver. Unscrew the handle screw and lift the handle clear.
- Unscrew the tap bonnet. Using your adjustable spanner, loosen the hexagonal bonnet beneath the handle by turning it anti-clockwise. Remove it completely. The most common mistake at this stage is over-tightening the bonnet on reassembly – snug is enough. To prevent damage, cover the tap with a cloth when using a spanner, especially if your tap has plastic parts.
- Remove the spindle and tap valve. Unscrew and pull out the spindle assembly, which includes the tap valve—the component that controls water flow and houses the washer. This exposes the washer at the base.
- Flush the valve seat. Before fitting the new washer, briefly open the water supply to flush any debris or grit from the valve seat, then close it again. This is a step most DIY guides miss – debris on the seat is the main reason a new washer still drips.
- Remove the old washer. The washer sits at the bottom of the spindle or tap valve. If stuck, carefully pry it out with pliers. Check for any remnants and clean the seat surface. Make sure to note the original size and shape (often a ring) of the washer.
- Fit the new washer. Replace the old washer with a new one that matches the original size. Place your replacement washer into the spindle recess, ensuring it sits completely flat and snug. Using a high-quality washer – rubber or nylon depending on your tap – ensures better durability and helps maintain a watertight seal to prevent future leaks.
- Reassemble the tap in reverse order. Reinsert the spindle and tap valve, screw the bonnet back on (firmly but not forcefully), replace the handle, and refit the screw and decorative cap. Avoid over-tightening any components, especially plastic parts, to prevent damage. Proper installation in reverse order of disassembly ensures the longevity and correct functionality of your tap.
- Restore the water supply. Turn the water back on slowly and test the tap several times. Check underneath the tap and around the bonnet for any signs of dripping.
The Valve Seat Problem: Why Your Tap Still Drips After a New Washer
Here is a situation many Canberra homeowners encounter: you have followed every step, fitted a brand-new washer, but the tap still drips. If that happens, the issue is almost certainly not the washer – it is the valve seat.
The valve seat is the metal surface inside the tap body that the washer presses against. Over years of use, it can become corroded, pitted, or coated with mineral deposits. Even a perfect new washer cannot form a seal against a damaged seat. Uneven water pressure or spurting from the tap can also be a sign of valve seat or washer problems.
If replacing the washer does not resolve the leak, you may need a tap valve repair kit to address deeper issues, such as worn O-rings or a damaged spindle, in addition to the valve seat itself.
A licensed plumber can professionally regrind the seat using a tap reseating tool, or replace the tap body entirely if needed. This is not a DIY task for most homeowners, and attempting it without the right tool usually makes the problem worse. If your tap continues to drip after a washer change, this is the point to call Woden Valley Plumbing. Addressing your plumbing needs promptly and professionally can prevent small issues from escalating into major problems.
Safety Tips for DIY Tap Repairs
Tackle this job safely by keeping these points in mind:
- Always confirm the water is fully off at the meter before dismantling anything. The isolation valve is usually located in the water meter box outside the home. Turn on the tap and wait until flow completely stops.
- Keep the work area dry. Water on tiles or floorboards creates slip hazards. Place towels or rags before you start. Also, ensure water does not penetrate into the wall cavity during repairs to prevent hidden water damage.
- Cover the drain. Small screws and washers disappear into drains instantly. Use a cloth or sink plug.
- Use the right tools. A correctly sized spanner reduces the risk of rounding off the bonnet nut or scratching fittings.
- Avoid excessive force. If a component will not move, apply penetrating oil and wait. Forcing a stuck bonnet can crack older tap bodies or strip threads.
- Protect your fixtures. Wrap a cloth around chrome or brass fittings before applying a spanner to avoid surface scratches.
- Know your limits. If you feel unsure at any stage, stop and call a professional. A small professional fee is always less expensive than a burst fitting or water damage.
When to Call a Professional Plumber in Canberra
Changing a tap washer is a legitimate DIY task for a traditional compression tap. However, call a licensed Canberra plumber in these situations:
The tap still drips after washer replacement. As outlined above, a leaking valve seat requires professional reseating or tap replacement. DIY attempts here routinely make the problem worse.
You have a ceramic disc or mixer tap. These require exact cartridge replacement, which involves identifying the manufacturer and model, sourcing the correct part, and a more involved disassembly process. Professional help is recommended if you are not confident.
Components are seized or corroded. Older Canberra homes may have taps with heavily corroded bonnets or spindles. A plumber carries specialist tools to remove these safely without damaging the surrounding pipework.
You cannot locate or operate the shut-off valve. Do not attempt any plumbing work without confirmed water isolation. A plumber can locate and service isolation valves as part of the same job.
You simply want peace of mind. Attempting DIY plumbing repairs can lead to significant damage if not done correctly, and professional plumbers have the expertise and equipment to handle tap servicing efficiently and safely. In the ACT, using a licensed plumber also ensures compliance with local plumbing regulations, which can vary between states and territories.
Woden Valley Plumbing provides fast, reliable tap repair and maintenance services across Canberra. Whether it is a worn washer, a damaged valve seat, or a leaking mixer tap, our licensed plumbers have you covered.
Contact Woden Valley Plumbing today for a free quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I legally change a tap washer myself in Canberra? Yes. Replacing a tap washer on a traditional compression tap is a legal DIY task in the ACT, as it does not involve installing new pipework or making connections to the water supply. However, more complex repairs involving cartridges, pipework, or new tap installations must be carried out by a licensed plumber to comply with ACT plumbing regulations.
How do I know if I have a tap washer tap or a cartridge tap? Traditional compression taps require multiple full turns to open or close – these use rubber washers, often housed within a jumper valve. If your tap opens with a quarter or half-turn, or uses a single lever, it is a ceramic disc or mixer tap and uses a cartridge rather than a washer.
What size tap washer do I need? Most standard household taps in Australia use a 12mm washer, but sizes can vary. The safest approach is to bring the old washer to your hardware store (Bunnings carries a wide range) to match the size and profile exactly before purchasing a replacement. Always ensure you select a suitable washer that matches the original for proper fit and function.
How often should tap washers be replaced? As a preventive measure, you should replace tap washers every one to two years, particularly in frequently used taps. In practice, replace tap washers as soon as you notice a drip or difficulty turning the tap fully off – waiting longer increases the risk of valve seat damage.
Why is my tap still dripping after I changed the washer? The most likely cause is a damaged or corroded valve seat inside the tap body. Even a perfect new washer cannot seal against a pitted or rough seat. This problem requires professional reseating or tap replacement – it is not fixable with a washer swap alone.
How much does a plumber charge to change a tap washer in Canberra? Costs vary depending on the job complexity, but a standard tap washer replacement by a licensed plumber typically ranges from $120 to $250, including a call-out fee and labour. If reseating or full tap replacement is needed, costs will be higher.
What is the difference between a rubber washer and a nylon washer? Rubber washers are soft and create an excellent initial seal, but can crack or perish with prolonged heat and friction exposure. Nylon washers offer higher strength and lower friction, making them more durable in taps that see heavy daily use. O rings are another common washer type, especially in mixer taps and spindles, and should also be checked and replaced if worn. Using high-quality washers and O rings – whichever material suits your tap – is the best way to ensure durability and prevent future leaks.
Can a dripping tap damage my home? Over time, yes. Beyond the obvious water waste of up to 30 litres per day, a persistent drip can lead to mineral staining, gradual corrosion of the valve seat, and in some cases, moisture damage to the cabinet or surface below the tap. Fixing a dripping tap early is always the most cost-effective course of action.
