If you’re looking for a DIY project that is simple, affordable and only takes minutes to complete, then replacing kitchen tap washers and O rings may be the perfect solution.
Although it might sound intimidating, this task can easily be done by anyone with basic tools, as long as you have an understanding of where each piece goes in the faucet.
In this blog post, we’ll go over what exactly kitchen tap washers and O rings are, how they function within the faucet structure and the steps needed to replace them properly.
Best of all – by taking on this job yourself at home, you could save significant money compared to hiring a professional plumber!
What Size O-Rings Do I Need to Fix My Tap?
The good news is that the size of O-ring you need to fix your tap usually depends on the make and model of the tap. There are a few universal sizes, however, so it’s always best to check with the manufacturer of your particular tap before making any assumptions.
To measure for the correct size O-rings when replacing or repairing existing ones in a sink faucet, simply measure across the outside diameter—the outermost circle formed by the groove in which an O-ring sits. The standard sizes for residential taps are 15/16 inches, 1 inch and 1 3/16 inches.
When purchasing new O-rings for a repair job, you may find that they come in packages labeled with “inside diameter” measurements.
In this case, you should look for a package with an inside measurement at least as large as the outermost circumference of your tap’s groove. This measurement can usually be found in the instruction manual or on the product page of your specific tap model.
In addition to size, you may also consider purchasing O-rings made from more durable materials such as silicone or rubber. These can often last longer and are more resistant to dirt and corrosion than their plastic counterparts.
When replacing O-rings, it is important to use plumber’s tape around the threads of the stem before tightening it down with a wrench in order to ensure a proper seal.
Are Washers and O-Rings the Same?
No, washers and O-rings are not the same. Washers are flat discs that are used to distribute loads or provide a sealing surface between two mating parts. They come in various shapes and sizes to fit different applications and are usually made from metal or plastic.
O-rings, on the other hand, are mechanical gaskets designed with a circular cross section for creating an airtight seal between two surfaces.
They’re often made from elastomers such as rubber, silicone, or PTFE and can be found in various automotive components like brakes and fuel systems.
While both serve similar purposes of providing a tight seal between two surfaces, they should not be used interchangeably due to their different design characteristics. Each type has its own unique application and should be chosen accordingly.
It’s important to understand the differences between washers and O-rings in order to select the best one for your needs.
Washers are great for applications that require a large surface area, such as those found in watertight seals or heavy-duty fasteners, while O-rings work better for small seal gaps where a tight seal is needed.
Ultimately, it all comes down to understanding the requirements of the job and selecting the appropriate component.
With careful consideration of these factors, you can ensure that your project runs smoothly and without issue.
Read: are faucet washers universal
Conclusion
While washers and O-rings are similar in some ways, they are not interchangeable. It’s important to know the difference so that you can make sure your taps are repaired correctly.
If you’re still unsure about what size O-ring you need or how to install it, contact a professional plumber for assistance. Thanks for reading!

Hey! I’m Anne. Welcome to Kitchen Faucet Advice! Anne have started this blog to help happy families to get right kitchen faucet for their lovely kitchens. When she is free, she loves writing about her experiences and play with her dog!