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How to fix leaking balcony tap?

The tap on my apartment balcony is dripping even though it is tightly closed. I think I need to change the washer but I don't know how to pull apart the tap. When I see videos online, the spindle can be removed. However with this tap, the spindle seems to be joined to the tap body. There is also a chunky part near the spout but don't know what this does. Does anyone know how to open and fix this type of tap?

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Comments

MitchellMc

Hi @knickknack24,

From your photo, the spindle actually looks like a fairly standard type found on many garden taps. There's a hex-shaped nut section near the base of the spindle, which is where you can use an adjustable wrench to loosen and remove it by turning it anti-clockwise. You can also see a small gap and the washer between the spindle and the tap body, which suggests that it should unscrew without too much trouble.

The chunky piece near the spout is just a fixed outlet—likely for attaching a hose or watering system—and it shouldn’t interfere with removing the spindle itself.

Do you have a large adjustable spanner on hand? That should do the job. Once you remove the spindle, you can swap out the washer—typically it’s a 15mm washer for this kind of tap, but it’s worth taking the old one into Bunnings just to match it up.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell

knickknack24

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/52344#Comment_52344

Hi Mitchell, thanks for your advice. I tried using an adjustable wrench to turn the spindle but it doesn't move at all. It seems stuck even after trying to clear out dust under the spindle.

MitchellMc

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/88340#Comment_88340

Hi @knickknack24,

These taps can be pretty stubborn, and it’s not unusual for the spindle to take quite a lot of force to undo. Many times I’ve tried myself and felt that applying any more force risked damaging the plumbing inside the wall.

If it absolutely refuses to budge despite your efforts, it might be safer to call in a plumber or a trusted handyperson to handle it without causing damage.

Mitchell

knickknack24

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/109830#Comment_109830

Thanks Mitchell. Unfortunately I wasn't able to open it myself, so I finally called a plumber who was able to resolve the issue.

EricL

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/122288#Comment_122288

Hello @knickknack24

I'm sure @MitchellMc will be pleased to hear that you got your tap repaired.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

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