The damage to water tap washers results in constant dripping and loss of water. Replace a washer takes only 10 minutes if you know the right procedure and have spare washers and tools. It’s always better to keep a supply of washers, a suitable spanner, pliers and a screwdriver handy in a container.

Keep the correct size of washers and make sure that you have washers that can cope with hot water. Check different types of washers in the market. Simple and cheap ones do not last for long time and can make taps tight to turn on and off. More sophisticated washers are available with springs and with rubber balls inside, which facilitate turning taps on and off easily. They also avoid the need to ream out damaged valve seats.

Generally repairs on most taps are same. Washers are used every time when taps are used. So eventually they become worn or chewed, especially if the tap valve is worn.

Here are the steps to replace a tap washer.

• First turn off the water supply to the dripping tap. Turn on the tap to release any water in the system feeding it.
• Before starting dismantling of the tap, place the plug in the outlet of the basin or sink. It prevents any small items you drop from going down the waste.
• Remove the top of the tap.
• Most modern taps have knobs with a red or blue marking to indicate whether the tap is hot or cold water. These markings are sometimes on a small insert in the centre of the top of the knob. These inserts normally hide the screw which holds the knob on the spindle.
• Use a small screwdriver to lever off the insert to expose the screw holding the knob.
• Remove the screw and the handle should lift off.
• Release the tap valve. Use a correct sized spanner above the joint and firmly hold the tap spout to stop the body of the tap turning on the basin or sink. If the tap moves, the connection under the basin or sink may loose causing a leak.
• Undo the valve completely and remove. Remember that all taps may not have detachable valve jumpers.
• Some valves have a small retaining nut for the washer; others have the washer simply pushed onto a central lug. Undo the nut to release the old washer or pressure the old washer over the lug. Each uses the same style of replacement washer.
• Replace the washer, and replace the nut if appropriate.
• Before replacing the tap valve check whether the tap seat is damaged or not. If it is damaged, repair it before replacement of the valve. If the seat is damaged a new washer may not cure a dripping tap.
• Assembly of the repaired tap valve and knob is the reverse of dismantling.