How to Fix a Leaking Tap: A Step-by-Step Guide to Save Water and Money

Leaking taps are a common household problem that can add up to serious costs over time. Beyond the frustrating dripping sound, you’re hassled with wasted water, a rising water bill, and potential damage to your plumbing fixtures. The good news is that in most cases, fixing a leaking tap is a straightforward process that you can do yourself. All you need are a few basic tools and a clear understanding of the steps involved. Here’s how to fix a leaking tap:

Identifying the Type of Tap

Before you begin fixing a leaking tap, it’s important to identify the type of tap you have. The repair process can differ depending on the tap type. The two most common types of taps are:

• Compression Taps: These have separate hot and cold handles. They use a washer to control the flow of water.
• Mixer Taps (Cartridge, Ceramic Disk, or Ball Taps): These have a single lever that controls both the temperature and flow of water.

Once you know what type of tap you’re dealing with, you can move forward with the right approach to fix it.

How to Fix a Leaking Tap: 5 Simple Steps

1. Turn Off the Water Supply

The first and most critical step is to turn off the water supply to the tap. This can usually be done by locating the isolation valves under the sink. If you cannot find these, you may need to shut off the main water supply to your home.

• Tip: Turning off the water helps prevent flooding or further damage. Don’t forget to turn on the tap afterward to drain any remaining water in the pipes.

2. Remove the Tap Handle

Once the water is off, you’ll need to remove the tap handle. This usually requires unscrewing the cap or button at the top of the tap to reveal the screw beneath.

• Tools You’ll Need: A flathead screwdriver and an adjustable wrench.

Carefully unscrew the tap handle to access the inner components. If you have a compression tap, this will reveal the washer, while for a mixer tap, you’ll find the cartridge or ceramic disc.

3. Inspect and Replace the Damaged Parts

The most common cause of leaking taps is worn-out washers or cartridges. Over time, these components degrade, leading to leaks. Inspect the washer, O-ring, or cartridge to see if it’s worn, damaged, or hardened.

• Fixing Compression Taps: If the washer is worn, replace it with a new one of the same size.
• Fixing Mixer Taps: For mixer taps, replace the damaged cartridge or ceramic disk.
• Pro Tip: Take the old washer or cartridge with you when purchasing a replacement to ensure it’s the correct size and type.

4. Reassemble the Tap

Once you’ve replaced the necessary parts, reassemble the tap in the reverse order. Ensure that all components are tightly secured, but be cautious not to overtighten, as this can cause further damage.

5. Turn the Water Supply Back On

After everything is back in place, turn on the water supply and check for any leaks. If the leak has stopped, congratulations—you’ve successfully fixed your leaking tap! If the problem persists, there may be a more serious issue, in which case contacting a professional plumber may be necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What causes a tap to leak?

A: The most common causes are worn-out washers, O-rings, or cartridges. High water pressure and corrosion can also contribute to the problem.

Q: How much water does a leaking tap waste?

A: A tap dripping once per second can waste up to 20,000 litres of water annually, significantly increasing your water bills.

Q: Can a leaking tap damage my home?

A: Yes. Over time, the constant dripping can lead to water damage in cabinets, sinks, and surrounding areas, and it may even lead to mould growth.

Q: When should I call a plumber?A: If you’ve tried replacing the washer or cartridge and the tap continues to leak, or if you encounter more serious plumbing issues such as leaking toilets or blocked drains, it’s best to contact professional emergency plumbing services.

Conclusion: Fixing a Leaking Tap is Easier Than You Think

Fixing leaking taps doesn’t require professional skills in most cases. With a few tools, patience, and the right replacement parts, you can stop that pesky drip and save both water and money. Remember, tackling the issue early is key to preventing more costly repairs down the road. However, if the problem seems more serious or if you’re dealing with multiple plumbing issues like leaking toilets or blocked drains, don’t hesitate to call a qualified plumber.

At South East Plumbing, we specialise in fixing leaking taps, leaking toilets, and providing emergency plumbing services. Contact us today if you need professional help with your plumbing problems!