How to Change a Tap Washer: Fixing a Dripping Tap Safely
A dripping tap can be annoying, waste water and make a bathroom, kitchen or laundry feel neglected. In many cases, the cause is a worn washer, O-ring, valve seat or older tap mechanism that no longer seals properly.
Replacing a washer in an existing standard tap may be a simple maintenance job for some homeowners, but not every dripping tap is a washer problem. Modern mixer taps, ceramic disc cartridges, damaged tap seats, seized fittings, leaking pipework and high water pressure can all cause similar symptoms.
JR Gas & Water helps homeowners across Brisbane, the Gold Coast and South East Queensland with tap repairs, leaking fixtures, general plumbing maintenance and practical advice when a simple washer replacement is not enough.
Quick Answer
A dripping tap is often caused by a worn washer, but it can also be caused by a damaged O-ring, worn valve seat, faulty ceramic cartridge, loose fitting, high water pressure or ageing tapware.
Before touching anything, isolate the water supply, check whether the tap is a traditional washer-style tap or a modern mixer, and avoid forcing seized parts. If the tap still leaks after basic maintenance, the pipework is damaged, the isolation valve does not work, or you are unsure what type of tap you have, book a licensed plumber.
For help with leaking taps and general plumbing repairs, JR Gas & Water can assist through its Brisbane plumber service.
What Is a Tap Washer?
A tap washer is a small sealing part inside many traditional taps. When the tap is turned off, the washer presses against the valve seat to stop water flowing.
Over time, washers can wear, flatten, crack or harden. When they no longer seal properly, water can pass through and create a drip from the spout.
Common Tap Parts That Can Cause Leaks
A dripping tap may involve:
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Tap washer
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Jumper valve
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O-ring
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Valve seat
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Spindle
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Bonnet
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Ceramic disc cartridge
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Mixer cartridge
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Tap body
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Flexible connector
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Isolation valve
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Pipework behind or under the fixture
This is why not every tap leak is fixed by changing a washer.
Signs Your Tap Washer May Need Replacing
A worn tap washer is most likely when you have an older-style tap with separate hot and cold handles.
Common signs include:
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Dripping from the tap spout when the handle is turned off
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Tap needs to be tightened harder than usual to stop dripping
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Squeaking or grinding when turning the handle
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Water flow feels uneven
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Tap handle feels loose, stiff or worn
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The drip gradually gets worse over time
If the leak is coming from around the handle, under the sink, inside the wall or from a mixer tap, the issue may not be the washer.
Washer Tap vs Mixer Tap: Why It Matters
Before trying to fix a dripping tap, work out what type of tap you have.
Traditional Washer-Style Taps
These usually have separate hot and cold handles. They often use a washer or jumper valve inside the tap body.
These are the taps most people mean when they talk about changing a tap washer.
Ceramic Disc Taps
Ceramic disc taps use ceramic components instead of standard rubber washers. They are designed to turn smoothly and seal more reliably, but they usually need cartridge-related repairs rather than a simple washer swap.
Mixer Taps
Mixer taps combine hot and cold water through one lever or handle. Many mixer taps use a cartridge. If a mixer tap is leaking, replacing a standard washer will not usually solve the problem.
If you are unsure which tap type you have, JR Gas & Water can help identify the issue and recommend the right repair or replacement pathway.
Tools Commonly Used for Tap Washer Maintenance
For basic washer-style tap maintenance, the tools commonly involved may include:
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Flathead screwdriver
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Adjustable spanner
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Multigrip pliers
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Replacement washer or jumper valve
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O-ring kit if needed
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Cloth or towel
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Bucket
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Thread tape where suitable
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Tap reseating tool if the seat is damaged
The exact parts depend on the tap type and condition. Taking the old washer or jumper valve to match the correct size can help avoid fitting the wrong part.
How to Change a Tap Washer Safely
These steps are general guidance for a traditional washer-style tap only. Do not use this process for mixer taps, ceramic disc taps, damaged pipework, gas appliances, hot water system valves or any fitting you are not confident working on.
Step 1: Turn Off the Water
Before removing any tap parts, the water supply must be isolated.
Depending on the fixture, this may involve:
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Turning off the isolation valve under the sink
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Turning off the water supply to that fixture
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Turning off the water at the mains if there is no working isolation valve
Once isolated, open the tap to release pressure and let remaining water drain.
If the isolation valve is seized, leaking or does not shut off properly, stop and call a plumber.
Step 2: Protect the Area
Before dismantling the tap, protect the sink, basin or bench.
Helpful steps include:
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Put a towel in the sink to protect the surface
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Cover the plughole so small parts do not fall down the drain
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Keep removed parts in order
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Take photos as you go if needed
This makes reassembly easier and reduces the chance of losing small screws or washers.
Step 3: Remove the Tap Handle
On many older taps, the handle is held in place by a screw hidden under a decorative cap.
General process:
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Remove the decorative cap if fitted
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Unscrew the handle screw
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Lift the handle away gently
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Avoid forcing it if it is stuck
If the handle is seized, corroded or starts to damage the fixture, stop before making the repair more expensive.
Step 4: Remove the Bonnet or Tap Body Cover
The bonnet or cover holds the internal tap parts in place.
Use the correct spanner and avoid crushing or scratching the tapware.
If the bonnet is tight, corroded or difficult to move, forcing it can damage the tap, pipework or wall connection. This is a good point to call a plumber if the job does not come apart cleanly.
Step 5: Replace the Washer or Jumper Valve
Once the internal spindle or jumper valve is accessible, check the washer.
A worn washer may look:
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Flattened
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Cracked
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Hardened
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Split
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Misshapen
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Loose
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Perished
Replace it with the correct size and type. Do not use a washer that nearly fits, as it may leak or damage the tap seat.
Step 6: Check the Tap Seat
If the washer was worn but the tap still leaks after replacement, the valve seat may be damaged.
A damaged tap seat can have:
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Grooves
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Pitting
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Corrosion
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Uneven surfaces
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Mineral buildup
In some cases, the seat may need reseating. If you are not experienced with this, it is better to book a plumber because an incorrectly repaired seat can keep damaging new washers.
Step 7: Reassemble the Tap
Reassemble the parts in the same order they came out.
When reassembling:
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Do not overtighten the washer
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Do not force the bonnet
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Make sure parts sit correctly
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Keep threads aligned
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Check the handle turns smoothly
Overtightening can crush the washer or damage the tap mechanism, which may cause the leak to return.
Step 8: Turn the Water Back On Slowly
Once the tap is reassembled, turn the water back on slowly and check for leaks.
Test:
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The tap spout
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Around the handle
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Under the sink
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Around the isolation valve
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Nearby pipe connections
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Whether the tap turns on and off smoothly
If water leaks from anywhere other than the spout, or the tap still drips, the issue may need professional repair.
When a New Washer Will Not Fix the Drip
A tap can keep leaking even after the washer has been replaced.
Common reasons include:
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Damaged valve seat
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Wrong washer size
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Worn O-ring
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Damaged spindle
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Corroded tap body
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Faulty ceramic cartridge
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Faulty mixer cartridge
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High water pressure
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Loose or damaged pipework
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Seized or worn isolation valve
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Ageing tapware that is no longer worth repairing
If the leak returns quickly, there is likely a deeper issue than the washer.
When to Call a Licensed Plumber
Call a plumber if the job is not straightforward or if there are signs of damage.
Book JR Gas & Water If
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The tap still leaks after a washer change
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The leak is coming from the tap body or handle
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The tap is a mixer or ceramic disc style
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The tap seat is damaged
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The isolation valve does not work
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Pipework under the sink is leaking
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The fitting is seized or corroded
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The tap is connected to old or fragile pipework
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Water pressure seems too high
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Multiple taps are leaking
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You want to replace the tapware
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You are unsure what type of tap you have
JR Gas & Water can help with general tap repairs, fixture replacements and plumbing maintenance through the Brisbane plumber booking page.
Should You Repair the Tap or Replace It?
A washer replacement can make sense for a simple older tap in otherwise good condition. But if the tap is old, stiff, corroded or leaking repeatedly, replacement may be the smarter long-term option.
Repair May Make Sense If
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The tap is otherwise in good condition
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The washer is clearly worn
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The valve seat is still smooth
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The handle turns properly
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There are no leaks from the body or pipework
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The tap matches the rest of the fixture set
Replacement May Be Better If
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The tap leaks repeatedly
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The tap body is worn or corroded
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The spindle is damaged
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The handle is stiff or loose
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The valve seat is badly worn
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The fixture is outdated
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You want smoother operation
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You are renovating a bathroom, kitchen or laundry
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You want a ceramic disc or mixer tap upgrade
A plumber can help determine whether repair or replacement is the better value.
Why Upgrade to Ceramic Disc Tapware?
Ceramic disc tapware can be a good upgrade if you are tired of repeat washer leaks.
Unlike older washer-style taps, ceramic disc taps use ceramic sealing components that are designed for smoother operation and longer service life.
Benefits of Ceramic Disc Taps
Ceramic disc tapware can offer:
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Smoother turning
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Better long-term sealing
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Less need for washer replacements
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A more modern look
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Easier use for many households
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Better suitability for bathroom, kitchen and laundry upgrades
They still need proper installation and can still wear over time, but they are often a better long-term option than repeatedly repairing old tapware.
Local Brisbane and Gold Coast Tap Problems
Tap leaks in Brisbane, the Gold Coast and nearby South East Queensland areas are often affected by property age, water pressure, fixture quality and installation history.
Common local issues include:
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High water pressure wearing valves and washers faster
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Older homes with ageing tapware
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Rental properties with heavy fixture use
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Renovated bathrooms with mixed old and new pipework
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Hard-to-access isolation valves
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Coastal corrosion around some Gold Coast properties
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Older laundry and outdoor taps exposed to weather
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Worn garden taps and hose cocks
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Townhouses with limited access under vanities or sinks
If multiple taps are dripping or fixtures are failing regularly, it may be worth checking water pressure and the condition of valves around the property.
How to Prevent Dripping Taps
Good habits can help reduce repeat tap leaks.
Practical Prevention Tips
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Do not overtighten taps when turning them off
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Repair early drips before they get worse
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Replace worn washers with the correct size
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Check O-rings when taps are serviced
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Keep tapware clean and free from heavy buildup
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Ask a plumber to check water pressure if fixtures keep failing
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Replace old tapware if it is worn beyond repair
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Consider ceramic disc tapware during renovations or upgrades
A tap that needs to be turned off harder and harder is usually already wearing internally.
What JR Gas & Water Can Help With
JR Gas & Water can help with leaking taps, plumbing maintenance and related services across Brisbane, the Gold Coast and nearby South East Queensland areas.
Relevant services include:
If the leaking tap is part of a bigger plumbing issue, JR Gas & Water can help assess the cause and recommend a practical repair or replacement option.
FAQs About Changing a Tap Washer
Is a dripping tap always caused by a washer?
No. A washer is a common cause in older-style taps, but dripping can also be caused by a damaged valve seat, worn O-ring, faulty cartridge, high water pressure, corroded tapware or leaking pipework.
Can I change a tap washer myself?
Replacing a washer in an existing standard tap may be possible for some homeowners if the water can be safely isolated and the tap comes apart easily. If the tap is seized, leaking from the body, connected to fragile pipework, or you are unsure what you are doing, book a plumber.
Why is my tap still dripping after I changed the washer?
The most common reasons are a damaged valve seat, wrong washer size, worn O-ring, damaged spindle or ageing tap body. Mixer taps and ceramic disc taps may need a cartridge repair rather than a washer.
Are all tap washers the same size?
No. Tap washers vary by tap type and size. Using the wrong washer can cause leaks, poor operation or damage to the tap seat. Matching the old washer or having the tap assessed can help avoid the wrong part.
What is the difference between a tap washer and a ceramic cartridge?
A tap washer is usually used in older-style taps and seals against a valve seat. A ceramic cartridge uses ceramic discs to control water flow and is common in modern tapware and mixer taps.
Should I replace old tapware instead of changing the washer?
If the tap is old, stiff, corroded or keeps leaking, replacing the tapware may be better value than repeated washer repairs. Ceramic disc tapware may be a better long-term option for kitchens, bathrooms and laundries.
Can high water pressure cause dripping taps?
Yes. High water pressure can place extra strain on valves, washers, cartridges and fittings. If several taps or valves fail regularly, it may be worth having the property’s water pressure checked by a plumber.
When should I call JR Gas & Water for a leaking tap?
Call JR Gas & Water if the tap still leaks after basic maintenance, the tap is seized, the isolation valve does not work, pipework is leaking, multiple taps are affected, or you want to replace old tapware.
Final Thoughts
Changing a tap washer can be a simple fix when the tap is an older washer-style design and the issue is minor. But not every dripping tap is a washer problem.
If the tap is a mixer, the seat is damaged, the leak keeps returning, the isolation valve is faulty or the tapware is old and worn, it may be better to book a plumber or upgrade the fixture.
Need help with a dripping tap?
Book a Brisbane plumber, check service work pricing, or send your job details through the JR Gas & Water quote request page.
