How to Fix a Dripping Tap?: Quick and Easy Solutions

If you’re a homeowner, you understand how irritating the noise of a dripping tap can be. It also wastes water, and you end up spending more of your money on utilities. Even a small leak can cause big problems if you wait too long to address it. But here’s the good news: it’s not a bug that you can’t fix yourself with some tools and a little patience. If you’ve ever wondered why your tap drips and leaks, how you can fix it, and when it’s maybe time to call in the professionals.

Why Is Your Tap Leaking?

If your tap is dripping, you may have one or more parts inside the tap that may be worn or broken. The common causes are as follows:

• Washer issues: The washer is the part of the tap that gets pressed up against the valve seat. As it wears out or loosens up over time, it's prone to leaking.

• O-ring problems: The O-ring provides a seal for the tap. If it’s cracked or broken, water could begin to leak around the handle.

• Valve seat damage: This is the point at which the washer rests. If the valve seat corrodes, it won’t seal properly and can cause leaks.

• Parts that are loose or broken: Any small part or piece in the tap that has worn out can make the faucet drip.

Before you attempt to repair anything, you need to identify your tap, as tap repair process will differ depending upon what type of tap you have.

Types of Taps You Might Have

There are several different types of taps commonly found in most UK households:

• Compression taps – These have two handles, one for hot and one for cold. You twist them, repeatedly, to wind them open or closed.

• Cartridge taps—These are half-turn-off water taps and often come in mixer style.

• Ceramic disc taps - They are much smoother and don’t require as much force to operate.

• Ball taps – These are commonly installed in kitchens and possess a single handle.

If you are aware of the types of taps you are dealing with, it will make it easier for you to comprehend the parts you will need to inspect and maybe replace.

What You Will Need Before You Start

Get the following tools for any replacement you're about to carry out:

• Adjustable spanner or wrench

• Flathead and Phillips screwdrivers

• New washer, O-ring, or cartridge (depending on your tap type)

• Old towel or cloth to protect your sink

• Bucket or small container

• Plumber’s grease (optional but recommended)

• Cleaning cloth

Being prepared with these tools will help streamline the process and reduce wasted time.

How to Stop a Leaking Tap - Step by Step Tutorial

Turn Off the Water Supply

First, shut off the water supply and check under the sink for isolation valves. Then switch them off by turning the handles toward the right. If you don’t find any such valves, shut off the main water supply.

Release Any Remaining Water

Once you’ve turned off the water, open the tap all the way and let the remaining water in the pipe drain out. You do this to avoid spills and to keep your work clean.

Plug the Drain

The next thing is to stop the sink drain with a plug or a cloth so you do not lose the small parts. Do not forget to do this, or else you might let screws or washers fall down the drain inadvertently.

Remove the Tap Handle

During this step, you will need a screwdriver to loosen and remove the screw at the top of the handle. First, a decorative cover needs to be removed. Pull out the handle gently after taking the screw out.

Removing The Inner Cartridge or Valve

When you have removed the handle, you will be staring down at the working part. Now, grab the wrench or spanner and turn it to unscrew and pull out the cartridge or valve. It is important that you take these parts off without damaging them.

Inspect the Washer or O-Ring

Inspect the washer or O-ring located in the bottom of the valve. If it appears to be worn, cracked, or flattened, replace it with a new one of the same size. You can take the old one to a hardware store if you’re in doubt.

Clean the Inside

Clean the inside of the tap body before you put everything back. Wipe with a cloth to clean off any dirt or residue. If the valve seat is dirty or corroded, clean it carefully with a soft brush or cloth.

Reassemble the Tap

After replacing the washer or O-ring and cleaning the inside of the tap, reassemble it. Tighten the valve up with your spanner, replace the handle, and screw it back on.

Turn the Water Back On

Now, turn that supply back on. Slightly open the spigot so the air can escape, and look for leaks through the base and the spout.

What If the Tap Still Leaks?

If the tap continues to leak after replacing the washer or O-ring, there could be an underlying problem. The seat of the valve may be damaged, or you need to replace the entire cartridge. In other cases you might have to change the ttap,as the current one might be too old or worn and could not be refitted

When to Call a Professional

Some tap repairs are straightforward to do yourself, but as with anything, not all. If:

• The leak persists after you replaced the washer

• The tap is rusted or stuck

• You don't know how to repair it.

• The valve seat is very badly damaged.

If you experience any of the above, you should call someone experienced. Attempting to force components, or simply guessing, can result in further trouble or even a sink flooded by water.

How to Avoid Leaky Taps in the Future

Routine checks will aid in stopping leaks before they begin. Here’s what you can do:

• Don’t overtighten taps. This causes the washer to wear out more quickly.

• Keep an eye on slow drips. Solve them early and you save money.

• Clean taps regularly to prevent grime buildup.

• Turn taps off gently.

By taking care of your taps, you will not only avoid leaks but also keep your water use efficient and your bills in check.

Final Thoughts

A leaky tap may seem like a small issue that’s easy to ignore, but it is a problem that can quickly turn into something more expensive. With a few tools and some simple steps, most people can make the repair themselves. If it seems too fiddly or the tap is still dripping once fixed, don’t be afraid to get a little help.

Halting that incessant drip isn’t just about peace and quiet; it also aids in water conservation, preventing damage and maintaining the health of your home.