trying to replace eton tap washer unable to remove the head
Hello @davidcnn
Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about your tap.
There are quite a number of tap handle out in the market. In order to get a better idea of the type of tap handle you have, would it be possible for you to share a photo of it? Our members can then assess what type of handle you have and we can then recommend steps on how to remove it.
If you need a hand posting the photos, please let us know.
Eric
as requested
There are two possible ways your tap handles are fixed in place. First is that the grub screw is hidden behind the thin handle. I suggest twisting the thin handle counterclockwise to see if it will come off. If it does, the next step is to look inside the hole and see if there is a grub screw inside. If there is, I suggest using an Allen key to remove the grub screw and once it is off you should be able to pull the handle off.
The second way is that it could be held in place with a compression fitting. You'll notice that the handle has a clear divider between the top and bottom of the handle. The suggested technique is to hold the top section of the handle with your left hand and hold the bottom section with your right. Keep the top section steady and twist the bottom section in a counterclockwise direction. If it gets tighter, please twist the bottom section in the opposite direction.
Here is a handy guide - How to replace a tap washer
Plumbing requirements vary between Australian states and territories, and some activities may only be permitted under specific exemptions or conditions. As we are unable to verify your location or circumstances, we recommend consulting a licensed plumber or your local plumbing regulator before undertaking this work. Please note that plumbing work needs to be completed by a licensed professional for safety and compliance.
If you need further assistance, please let us know.
able to remove screw
But not able to unscrew the handles
What do I need to do
Did you manage to remove the thin handles? Which screw are you referring to? Perhaps you can provide a photo of your progress? Which part have you managed to take off?
thin handles not able to remove
The screw is at the bottom removed with Allan key
Excellent! you found the hole for the grub screw. Turn the Allen key counterclockwise and remove the grub screw. Once the grub screw is removed gently rock the handle left to right and see if you can pull it out. Sometimes calcium deposits settle on the spindle and make's the handle difficult to remove. Be patient and keep rocking the handle until it comes loose.
Rocked the handle left and right still not able to remove the tap
What else can I do to remove the tap
Thanks
My last suggestion would be to try the twisting removal solution. Grab the top of the handle and keep it steady and try to twist the bottom counterclockwise. If this fails to remove it, it's time to call in the professional plumber to remove the tap handle.
Let me call on our experienced members @Dave-1, @Nailbag, @TedBear, @JoeAzza and @Noyade for their recommendations.
Thanks for your help
Hi @davidcnn at this point I can only suggest continuing to try and lever the knob off with more force. Perhaps try the other tap to see if it comes off easier to confirm method.
Nailbag
Good Evening @davidcnn
I am also thinking of pulling the tap off, but maybe instead of leavering trying pulling the tap straight off, Or small twists back and fourth while putting pressure to pull it off. I would not go superman strength, maybe stop around say 2/3rds your strength. If it dosnt work I would maybe take a photo of the taps into a bathroom place and see if the recognise the tapware and suggest a way forward as the next step is a plumber to remove :/
Dave
Hi @davidcnn I was looking at your post, I had a look online , the taps could be the ceramic disc type, if you have had them fixed yet , you could go to a tapware shop, and ask them for assistance.