How to Fix a Leaking Tap: A Simple DIY Guide for Aussie Homes

Did you know that a constantly leaking tap can waste thousands of litres of water every year? In Australia, where water conservation is crucial and utility bills are always on the rise, ignoring a drip is like pouring money down the drain. Fortunately, fixing a standard leaking tap is one of the easiest DIY home maintenance tasks you can tackle.

Welcome to AussieHomeFix! Today, we will walk you through a simple, step-by-step guide to fixing a leaky tap yourself, saving you both water and the cost of an expensive call-out fee.

Tools You Will Need

Before you start pulling things apart, make sure you have the right tools ready. You can easily find these at your local Bunnings or any hardware store:

• Adjustable spanner (wrench) Check Price on Amazon
• Screwdriver (flathead or Phillips, depending on your tap) Check Price on Amazon
• Replacement washers (12mm tap washers are standard in most Aussie homes)
• Replacement O-rings
• Plumber’s tape (Teflon tape) Check price on Amazon
• An old cloth or towel

Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing Your Leaking Tap

Step 1: Turn Off the Mains Water Supply

This is the most important step! Before doing any plumbing work, locate your mains water meter (usually found at the front of your property near the boundary line) and turn the valve off. Once closed, turn on the leaking tap to drain any remaining water left in the pipes.

Step 2: Remove the Tap Button and Handle

Put the plug in your sink so you don't lose any small screws down the drain. Use a flathead screwdriver to carefully pop off the hot/cold indicator button on top of the tap. Underneath, you will find a screw. Unscrew it and gently pull the tap handle off.

Step 3: Unscrew the Tap Bonnet and Remove the Spindle

Once the handle is off, you will see a metal cover called the flange or bonnet. Unscrew this (you might need your cloth and spanner if it’s tight). Beneath it lies the spindle. Use your adjustable spanner to loosen and remove the spindle from the tap body.

Step 4: Replace the Washer and O-ring

At the base of the spindle, you will find the tap washer. This is usually the culprit behind a dripping tap. Pull off the old, worn-out washer and replace it with a brand new one. While you have the spindle out, it is also a good idea to roll off the old rubber O-ring and slide a new one on to prevent leaks from the handle.

Step 5: Reassemble and Test the Tap

Now, put everything back together in reverse order. Reinsert the spindle and tighten it with your spanner (do not over-tighten). Put the bonnet, handle, and screw back in place, and pop the indicator button back on top.

Make sure the tap is in the 'off' position, then head outside and turn your mains water supply back on. Go back inside and test your tap. The annoying drip should now be completely gone!

When to Call a Licensed Plumber

Replacing a tap washer is a basic DIY task, but Australian regulations require you to use a licensed professional for major plumbing works. If you've replaced the washer and the tap is still leaking, or if the leak is coming from inside the wall, it’s time to call in a local licensed plumber. Tampering with internal pipes without a license can void your home insurance.

Have you successfully fixed a leaky tap in your home? Let us know in the comments below, and don't forget to bookmark AussieHomeFix for more practical home maintenance tips!