Lesson 1
Preparing for the Repair
Gather the necessary tools and shut off your water supply before starting work.
The tool list
You need: an adjustable spanner, a flathead and Phillips screwdriver, a clean cloth, and the correct replacement parts. Do not buy parts until you have taken the tap apart to see exactly what you need. Take the old washer or cartridge to the hardware store to ensure an exact match.
Cutting the supply
Look for the isolation valve under the sink. Turn it clockwise until it stops. If there is no isolation valve, you must turn off the main water supply to your house. Once the water is off, open the tap to drain any remaining water from the pipes. Place a cloth over the plughole so that small screws do not fall down the drain. This is the most common mistake beginners make; losing a screw halts your repair immediately.