A toilet tap that leaks or does not fit properly can quickly become a source of stress. Most of the time, the problem is simply the washer. But which type of washer should you choose for a toilet tap? Here is what you need to know. And if the whole tap is worn out, our toilet stop taps range includes replacement models.
The different types of washers for toilet taps
Several types of seal are used to make a toilet tap watertight:
- The flat washer: often made of fibre or rubber, it seals the joint between the tap and the pipe or connector.
- The O-ring: ring-shaped, it is mostly used inside the tap mechanism.
- The fibre washer: particularly resistant to pressure, it is recommended for high-pressure cold or hot water supplies.
How to choose the right washer diameter
The diameter of the washer depends on the thread of your tap or supply hose. For a standard toilet tap, the most common sizes are:
- 12/17 (3/8")
- 15/21 (1/2")
These sizes are standard for toilet stop taps. Make sure you measure the inside of the connector accurately before buying your washer.
When should you replace a washer?
A washer should be replaced as soon as:
- Water seeps around the connector
- The tap drips constantly
- A leak appears when tightening or loosening
Over time, rubber washers can dry out, crack or become misshapen. It is therefore a good idea to inspect them whenever you work on your plumbing. If you do not yet know where the water is coming from, diagnosing a leaking tap, spot by spot, is covered in our guide, toilet taps included.
Installation tips
For a perfect seal:
- Clean the contact surfaces before fitting the washer
- Do not overtighten the connector: a crushed washer loses its effectiveness
- Use a little silicone grease on the washer to extend its life
What if the leak persists?
If the leak continues despite replacing the washer, the tap itself may be faulty (worn seat, damaged thread, etc.). In that case, it is better to replace the whole toilet tap. You can browse our selection of taps to suit your installation for a lasting solution. Replacement takes four steps, set out in our tutorial on changing a toilet tap.
Choosing the right washer for a toilet tap means a reliable seal and no annoying leaks. A small part, but a big impact on your everyday comfort. To connect a bidet sprayer to the same water supply, follow our guide to fitting a toilet bidet sprayer.
