Turn off the water, unscrew the tap head, swap the worn rubber washer, and rebuild the tap to stop a drip.
TAP-01Gather your tools and buy the right washerYou'll need an adjustable spanner, a flat-head screwdriver, and a replacement tap washer. Outside taps use a few different washer sizes, so take the old one to the shop if you can, or buy an assorted pack. Have an old towel or rag ready to catch drips.
TAP-02Turn off the water supplyMany outside taps have their own isolation valve indoors, often under the kitchen sink, in a utility room, or in the garage. Turn it off if you can find it. If there isn't one, turn off the main stopcock instead. Open the outside tap fully and leave it open so any pressure and water in the pipe can drain away.
TAP-03Disconnect the hoseUnscrew any hose fitting or connector from the tap spout so it's out of your way. Leave the tap open until no more water dribbles out. This confirms the supply really is off before you take anything apart.
TAP-04Remove the tap headIf the handle has a small retaining screw in the centre or side, undo this first and lift the handle off. Underneath, undo the large retaining nut with the spanner, turning anticlockwise. Lift the whole spindle and head assembly out of the tap body.
TAP-05Take out the old washerThe washer sits on a small brass or plastic disc called the jumper, at the bottom of the spindle. It's usually held by a tiny nut or just pushed on. Ease off the old washer with the screwdriver and check the jumper isn't cracked or corroded — replace it too if it looks worn.
TAP-06Fit the new washerPush the new washer onto the jumper, matching the exact size and shape of the old one. A thin smear of silicone tap grease helps it seat properly and makes the tap turn smoothly.
TAP-07Reassemble the tapSlide the spindle and head assembly back into the tap body. Screw the retaining nut back on clockwise, hand-tight first, then snug it with the spanner. Don't overtighten — this can crack the tap body or damage the new washer.
TAP-08Turn the water back on and testTurn the isolation valve or stopcock back on slowly. Turn the tap on and off a few times to check it moves smoothly and shuts off fully with no drip from the spout. Check the retaining nut and any joints you disturbed for leaks.
TAP-09Tidy upDry off the tap and surrounding area with the rag. Reconnect your hose. Keep any spare washers from the pack somewhere handy — they're cheap and this job comes round again eventually.
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