A leaking tap is one of those annoying plumbing problems we tend to put off fixing. But it’s an easy DIY job that anyone can do, and the sooner you get onto it, the less water and money you’ll lose down the drain. To ensure a proper job, simply print this booklet and refer to it as you go.

• 12mm (1/2”) washers (these are most commonly used inside the home)
• O-ring
• Jumper valve
• Reseating kit (if necessary)
• Wrench /spanner or tap spanner set
• Multi-grips (if necessary)
• Screwdriver
• Tap lubricant
• Cloth

1. Before getting started, make sure you turn off your water supply at the mains. If you live in a house, your water main will be out on the street or in the front yard. If you live in a flat or townhouse, the mains tap will probably be inside the bathroom or laundry.
2. Turn on the tap to release any water left in the pipe, then put a plug in the basin to stop any parts falling down the drain as you work.

Using a spanner, take off the tap’s cover to remove the handle. You’ll probably find this under the hot or cold sign.

Undo the screw and remove the handle. If the tap has a metal cover, unscrew it by hand, or use a wrench or tap spanner.

Unscrew the tap bonnet, and completely remove the headgear. You should see a large body washer, o-ring and jumper valve. The jumper valve should fall out.

Replace the body washer, the o-ring and the jumper valve with new parts. Apply a tap lubricant to the spindle and valve for better sealing and smoother tap operation.

Refit the bonnet and spindle. Be careful not to over-tighten the nuts.

Put the tap back together, turn it off, and turn the water main back on. Now check the tap to make sure it’s no longer leaking. Now you can step back and admire a proper job, knowing you’re not wasting a drop.