How Do You Soften A Rubber Washer?
New rubber washers are supple enough to conform to fittings and create a proper seal, but time and exposure to chemicals or minerals can cause a rubber washer to dry out. A dry washer can leave gaps in a seal and allow leaks. Products are available for reconditioning rubber, thereby extending the life of washers. Step 1 Shut off the fluid pressure in the line or hose containing the rubber washer. Bleed the fluid through a release valve, if possible. Step 2 Put on fluid-resistant goggles. Fluids may spurt out from the connector when you remove the washer. Step 3 Open the hose connector containing the washer. Remove the washer with the tip of a slotted screwdriver. Step 4 Spray the washer with silicone waterproofing spray or wet it with rubber conditioner until it is drenched. Step 5 Drop the wet rubber washer into a plastic bag with an airtight zip seal. Let it soak for three days to allow the softening agents to penetrate into the rubber.
