Tip of the day: Fix a dripping tap in 20 minutes

A dripping tap can waste thousands of litres a year. The fix is usually a cheap washer or cartridge.

How to do it

1. Turn off the water at the isolating valve under the basin, or at the mains, and open the tap to drain it.
2. Plug the basin so small parts cannot fall down the drain.
3. Remove the handle and unscrew the headgear with a spanner.
4. Replace the washer (or the ceramic cartridge on quarter-turn taps) with an identical one.
5. Reassemble, turn the water on slowly and check for drips.

Pro tip: Take the old washer or cartridge to the hardware store so you get an exact match.

Watch how it’s done

Video by B&Q on YouTube.

Rather leave it to the pros? The ZSP Plumbing & Maintenance team is on call 24/7. WhatsApp or call 081 522 6098.