How to Replace an O-Ring Kit on a Dual Lever Tap
Step-by-step guide to fixing leaks from the spout, including pinhole damage checks and fitting tips.
A leaking tap or water dripping from around the bottom of the spout is usually caused by worn O-rings. These rubber seals are essential for keeping water inside the tap body, but over time they can flatten, split, or perish due to regular use and limescale build-up.
Replacing an O-ring kit is a simple repair that can restore your tap using basic tools.
- Tools Required
- Replacement O-ring kit
- Adjustable spanner
- Soft cloth
- Silicone grease (recommended)
- Small screwdriver or Allen key (depending on tap)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Turn Off Water Supply
Shut off isolation valves or mains water and open the tap to release pressure.
2. Remove the Spout
Most dual lever kitchen taps have a small grub screw at the back of the tap or a locking nut at the base of the spout. Remove the grub screw with an allen key or loosen the locking nut by turning it anti-clockwise. Gently lift or twist the spout free ensuring you are in over the tap whilst pulling the spout upwards. You can put a cloth around the spout if you are worried about damaging the finish.
3. Remove Old O-Rings
Locate O-rings on the base of the spout. Carefully remove using a small flat screwdriver or even your finger nail. We recommend only replacing the black rubber rings unless the white PTF ring looks damaged or perished. Please note, there is meant to be a gap within the white ring. Clean grooves thoroughly to remove limescale and debris.
4. Fit New O-Rings
Lightly lubricate with silicone grease. Do not use vaseline as that will perish the rubber rings. Fit into grooves without twisting or stretching. Ensure they sit evenly.
5. Refit the Spout
Put spout back into the body of the tap. Ensure smooth rotation and full seating. Tighten back the grub screw / locking nut.
6. Turn water back on and test
Turn water back on and check for leaks around the spout base.
Common Problems
If the tap still leaks after replacing O-rings, inspect the spout carefully. In some older or heavily used taps, pinholes can develop in the spout body due to internal corrosion. These tiny holes can allow water to escape even when new seals are fitted.
Look for:
Fine sprays or misting from the spout body
Corrosion near the base of the spout
Persistent leaking after seal replacement
Damp patches around the spout during use
If this occurs, the spout will need replacing, not just the O-rings.
Replacing O-rings is one of the quickest and most cost-effective tap repairs. However, correct sizing is essential, as kits vary between manufacturers and tap models.
If you are unsure which O-ring kit you need, TapSparesUK can help identify the correct replacement parts based on a photo of your tap. Contact us via our "identify my tap" form, so we can advise further.