Mixer Tap Washer Replacement: Stop Leaking Tap Fast
That constant drip, drip, drip isn't just annoying – it’s a sign that a part inside your tap is wearing out. In most cases, a mixer tap washer replacement is a straightforward fix. It usually involves shutting off the water, disassembling the handle, and swapping the old, worn washer for a new one.
Understanding Why Your Mixer Tap Is Leaking
Nine times out of ten, a leaking mixer tap is caused by a worn-out internal part. The seals inside are under constant pressure and friction. Over time, they simply degrade, letting water sneak past even when the tap is turned off tightly.
This is especially common in older, traditional compression-style taps. Dodgy washers are behind a significant number of tap leaks in UK homes.
You'll know it's likely the washer if you spot these signs:
- A steady drip coming from the spout.
- A persistent puddle of water around the base of the tap.
- Finding it harder to turn the tap off completely.
Recognising the cause is half the battle. To learn more, our guide on how to fix a leaking tap has you covered.
Gathering Your Tools and Replacement Parts
Before you start, a little preparation makes all the difference. Having everything you need within arm's reach is the secret to a smooth, stress-free repair and saves a frantic mid-job dash to the hardware shop. You don't need a professional's entire van, just a few key items.
Your Essential Toolkit for Replacing a Tap Washer
Here's a quick checklist of the essentials. Most of these are common household items, so you might already have what you need.
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Adjustable spanner | For loosening and tightening the main body nut. |
| Screwdriver set | For the handle screw (flat-head or Phillips-head). |
| Soft cloth or rag | To protect the tap’s finish from scratches. |
| Replacement washer(s) | The new part to stop the drip. |
| Penetrating oil (optional) | For loosening stubborn, corroded parts. |
| Small container | To keep small screws and parts from getting lost. |
Pro Tip: When buying a new washer, take the old one with you. It’s the best way to guarantee you get a perfect match for size and type, removing any guesswork.
How to Replace Your Mixer Tap Washer
Ready to finally silence that drip? Let's get this mixer tap washer replacement sorted.
First, and most importantly, shut off the water. Look for isolation valves on the pipes directly under the sink and give them a quarter-turn. If there are none, you'll have to turn off your home's main supply at the stopcock. Our guide on how to turn off your water mains will walk you through it. Once the water is off, open the tap to drain any trapped water.
Dismantling the Tap
Most tap handles have a decorative cap (often with a red/blue indicator). Gently pry this off with a small, flat-head screwdriver.
Underneath, you'll find a screw holding the handle. Unscrew it and lift the handle off. This exposes the valve mechanism, which you can now unscrew using an adjustable spanner.
Once the valve is out, you'll see the old washer at the bottom. Pop it off and fit the new one securely. Now, reassemble everything in the reverse order.
Troubleshooting Common Repair Problems
So, you’ve completed the mixer tap washer replacement, but the drip is still there. Don't worry, it’s a common scenario with a simple explanation.
The most likely culprit is a worn or damaged valve seat—the metal rim the washer presses against. Over time, limescale or corrosion can create pits on its surface, stopping even a new washer from forming a perfect seal.
Common Repair Snags and Fixes
Another classic issue is a screw that won't budge due to rust. A spray of penetrating oil, left for a few minutes, can often work wonders.
Using the wrong size washer is also a surefire way to guarantee a leak. It’s an easy mistake if you’re trying to eyeball it in the shop. The new washer must fit snugly without being forced to create a watertight seal.
When to DIY vs. When to Call a Go Assist Engineer
Knowing your limits is key to successful DIY. While swapping a mixer tap washer is often a manageable job, some situations are a clear sign to call a professional.
If you find heavily corroded pipes, a tap that won’t budge, or it’s still leaking after you’ve finished, it’s time for backup. For most, this is a quick 30-60 minute fix, but sometimes, peace of mind is priceless. To help you decide, we've put together a quick comparison.
DIY Repair vs Professional Service: A Quick Comparison
Here’s a breakdown to help you weigh up your options.
| Factor | DIY Approach | Professional (Go Assist Engineer) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Minimal – just the cost of a new washer. | A fixed call-out fee. |
| Time | Can take 30-60 minutes, but longer with snags. | Fast and efficient; the engineer is fully equipped. |
| Tools & Parts | You source the correct washer and have basic tools. | Arrives with all necessary tools and common parts. |
| Risk | Potential for causing more damage (e.g., new leaks). | Minimal risk. The repair is guaranteed. |
| Expertise | Relies on your own knowledge and online guides. | A qualified, experienced professional. |
The choice comes down to your confidence, time, and how much you value a guaranteed, stress-free fix. For more on this topic, explore the general considerations for DIY versus hiring a professional for bathroom renovations.
If you’re facing a complex issue or simply don't have time, our qualified Go Assist engineers are ready to help. Learn more about our professional tap repair services and book an expert online today.
Your Mixer Tap Questions Answered
It’s normal to have a few more questions. Here are clear answers to the most common queries we get.
How Often Should I Replace My Tap Washers?
There’s no strict expiry date, but it's good practice to inspect them every couple of years. If you live in a hard water area, limescale can cause them to degrade faster. Your tap is the best judge—if it starts dripping, it's time for a change.
Can I Replace the Washer in a Single-Lever Tap?
Usually no, because they don't have one. Most modern single-lever taps use a ceramic disc cartridge. The good news is the replacement process is similar: shut off the water and take the tap apart to swap the old cartridge. The key difference is you must buy the exact cartridge for your tap's make and model.
If a new washer or cartridge doesn’t stop the leak, the culprit is often a damaged valve seat. If it's pitted or rough, it can't form a watertight seal and may require a special reseating tool to fix.
Don't let a simple plumbing job turn into a major headache. If you feel out of your depth or want the peace of mind that it's done right the first time, book one of our expert engineers at Go Assist. We provide fast, reliable professional tap repair services with transparent pricing. Find out more at https://go-assist.co.uk.
