How to fix tap needing three turns before water comes out?

[ptaylor]

Hi all, I'm back again with a little plumbing dilemma. So I changed the tap washer and o-rings in both my bathroom taps (hot/cold) but now it takes 2-3 turns before water starts to come out. Once it does, the pressure is fine but it just takes extra turns for it to start flowing. This is for both taps.

All other taps in the house are fine.

I'm just wondering, because I needed pliers to pull the old washers out, whether the washers might be too big? Could this be causing the problem?

Thanks in advance,

Paul

[EricL]

Hello @ptaylor 

Your assessment is very likely true, I suggest comparing the old washer to the new washer. If your tap is quite old, it's possible that it is still using the older standard of 10 to 11mm instead of the new 12 to 13mm. If so, the delay is being caused by the washer failing to come up immediately. Technically the water pressure is forcing the washer to come up instead of being free and loose. If you can compare the washers and the old washers are smaller, you'll need to get something similar in order for your tap to work the way it use to work.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

[ptaylor]

Thanks Eric, unfortunately, the original washers are long gone, I think the only reason we weren't having this problem previously was due to the washers being worn. I'll just have to wing it and try a smaller one.

Would using a smaller washer cause any issues?

[EricL]

Hello @ptaylor 

Using the smaller washers should not be an issue as long as they cover the base outlet of the tap. But please don't throw away you current washers. My best advice is to test first and if successful you can change the other tap as well. But if it leaks or does not operate properly then it would be best to stay with your current washers.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric