Replacing a washer on modern bath tap

[paulcrawford1987]

Hi all

Tonight my bath tap would not turn off, it became a bit stiff and there was a continual flow of water. I have sitched off my water at the stop clock so it has stopped.

Upon reading further it is a common case of the washer failing. After reading online how to fix it all the guides point to a more traditional tap. As you can see from my attached pic my tap is a modern bath tap.

How do I replace the washer on this? Do I pull the lever off? It is very stiff so I dont want to force it off. I will pick up a new washer tomorrow.

Any help is greatly appreciated. . I am a complete novice of this so I need your help!!

 

[mikeyd]

No idea, but have you had a look under the bath?

If it really is modern, then you should find some isolation valves.

Then you would at least be able to turn your stop cock back on.

 

[TCCHeating]

You will need to get a ceramic cartridge rather than a washer for that as it is a quarter turn tap. Your best bet is to call the manufacturers and see if they can send you a replacement cartridge, (the hot and cold side are different so you will need to work out which one has failed or order both to be sure) or you could have a look on www.lunns.net and see if you can find the right one there

 

[longdogs]

Are there any grub screws behind the tap head? If not then they must just prise off which will not be easy.

 

[HERTS P&D]

It is sometimes cheaper and less hassle to fit a new mixer tap.

Andy

 

[longdogs]

It is sometimes cheaper and less hassle to fit a new mixer tap.

Andy

+1

 

[ALCPlumbing]

Sod that. I avoid replacing bath taps/mixers if I can. They are always a pain the backside.

 

[loafer]

I hate 1/4 turn mixers and mono-mixers especially. All too often get the same issue with mono shower mixers too. The cartridges for all single or mono mixers are around £12 to £15. But, you have to ensure that you get the correct type/size. Essentially, you have to gain access to the headgear by removing the lever head. There may be a little push in nubbin button at the rear of the tap that reveals access to either a slotted grub screw or more commonly a hex screw. Make sure that you select the appropriately sized tool or you may round it off. If you have to lever/prize of the tap be careful not to wreck your fingers or scratch the tap!
You will have to make sure that th replacement is the correct one. Plumbers merchants may or may not stock them so phone first. A local specialist bathroom retailer is usually a better option.
Make sure that the cartridge housing is nice n clean and make sure that the cartidge is orientated correctly. There may be two little nipples on the cartridge that locate in dimples in the tap body.

Failing that.... get a new tap that matches the basin!. Oh. and don't forget to fit isolation/service valves on hot n cold supplies to the bath. Make sure that they are full bore if the bath is fed on gravity (low pressure)

Rather you than me.... Grrrr I hate cheap n nasty placky cartridges. Like ciggy packets... people who sell 'em should, by law, give you a warning. Likely to fail the week after the 2 year guarantee expires.

Good Luck!

 

[paulcrawford1987]

Thank you for all of your input. It took me a good few hours but I got it sorted. Tbe hardest bit was getting the hexagonal gland off as it became rounded. A pair of vice grops later and it was off.

Went to wickes who told me there is nowhere that does ceramic replacements. B and Q didnt stock them but referred me to a local DIY store and they had a match!! Very easy to fit and replace. Hard work but its now fixed!