Why You Shouldn't Ignore a Dripping Tap
A dripping tap might seem like a minor annoyance, but even a slow drip can waste thousands of litres of water per year and noticeably increase your water bill. The good news is that most dripping taps are straightforward to fix — even for those with minimal DIY experience.
Understanding the Type of Tap You Have
Before you start, identify your tap type, as the fix differs between them:
- Traditional (pillar) taps: Separate hot and cold handles. Usually use a rubber washer or O-ring.
- Mixer taps: Single spout with one or two handles. May use a ceramic disc cartridge.
- Monobloc lever taps: Single lever controlling both temperature and flow. Usually ceramic disc.
What You'll Need
- Adjustable spanner or set of spanners
- Flat-head and Phillips screwdrivers
- Replacement washers, O-rings, or ceramic cartridge (check your tap model)
- Plumber's grease
- A cloth or towel
Step-by-Step: Fixing a Traditional Tap with a Worn Washer
- Turn off the water supply — use the isolation valve under the sink or shut off the main stopcock.
- Open the tap to release any remaining pressure and drain the pipes.
- Remove the tap handle — prise off the decorative cap on top, then unscrew the handle screw.
- Unscrew the packing nut using an adjustable spanner, then lift out the headgear assembly.
- Inspect the washer at the base of the headgear. If it's cracked, worn, or deformed, it needs replacing.
- Remove the old washer (held by a small nut) and fit the new one of the same size.
- Apply plumber's grease to the O-ring and threads before reassembling.
- Reassemble in reverse order, turn the water back on, and test.
Fixing a Ceramic Disc Tap
Ceramic disc taps are more durable but can still drip if the disc becomes cracked or clogged with limescale. After removing the cartridge:
- Inspect both ceramic discs for chips or cracks — replace the cartridge if damaged.
- If the discs look intact, clean them gently with a damp cloth to remove limescale deposits.
- Reassemble and test. If it still drips, replace the cartridge entirely.
Where Is the Drip Coming From?
| Drip Location | Likely Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Spout | Worn washer or ceramic disc | Replace washer or cartridge |
| Base of tap | Worn O-ring | Replace O-ring |
| Around handle | Loose packing nut | Tighten or replace packing |
When to Call a Plumber
Most dripping tap repairs are DIY-friendly, but you should call a professional if:
- You can't locate or operate the isolation valve safely.
- The tap body itself is cracked or corroded.
- The problem returns quickly after your repair.
- You're not confident working with the plumbing under your sink.
A qualified plumber can typically fix a dripping tap quickly and affordably — often as part of a routine service visit.