How Do I Stop a Dripping Tap?

Why Do Taps Drip?

Figuring out why your outside tap leaking is the first step to fixing it. Here are some common reasons behind a dripping tap and how to deal with them:

Worn-out washers

Rubber washers don’t last forever. Constant friction, water pressure, and mineral buildup wear them down over time. Eventually, they start to break down, causing leaks and losing their effectiveness.

Damaged ceramic cartridges

For those modern mixer taps, it’s all about ceramic cartridges. These can get worn out or clogged with limescale, causing annoying drips. Replacing the cartridge usually does the trick.

O-ring issues

O-rings keep things sealed at the base or handle of your tap. But over time, they can crack or loosen, leading to leaks. A quick replacement is all you need to stop the dripping.

Limescale buildup

If you’re in a hard water area (hello, London!), limescale can build up around washers or cartridges, messing with your tap’s performance. Regular cleaning can keep this under control and prevent leaks.

Valve seat corrosion

The valve seat is what connects your tap to the spout. Over time, it can corrode, messing with water flow and leading to the mixer tap dripping from the spout. Polishing it or replacing it should fix the issue.

With a bit of know-how, you can tackle most dripping taps yourself!
If you are looking for a reliable tap replacement in London, call serviceteam.

Is a Dripping Tap Dangerous?

Not right away, but it can cause serious problems over time.
Those constant drips can lead to corrosion, mould, and even damage to nearby surfaces. Plus, all that wasted water isn’t great for the environment either. It’s definitely worth fixing the outside tap leaking sooner rather than later!

Assessing the Type of Tap

Before you start fixing your tap, it’s best to figure out what kind of tap you’re working with. Here’s a quick rundown of the main types and how to spot them:

How to Fix a Dripping Tap? A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Turn off the water

Shut off the water supply. Find the isolation valve or stopcock and turn it off. Then, turn on the tap to drain any leftover water. This will keep things neat and prevent a mess while you’re working.

Step 2: Check out your tap

Pop off any decorative covers on the tap handle to get to the screws. Grab the right screwdriver and carefully unscrew the handle. Take your time here- no one wants accidental damage!

Step 3: Take it apart

Unscrew the tap head to access the valve inside. As you remove parts, lay them out in order so you know exactly how to put them back later.

Step 4: Swap out the problem part

First, figure out what’s causing the issue.

• For compression taps, it’s usually the rubber washer at the bottom of the valve.
• For monobloc taps, replace the tap cartridge (ceramic part)
• If the leak is near the spout or handle, it’s probably a worn-out O-ring.

Step 5: Clean things up

Check the parts for limescale buildup (a common scenario in London because of hard water). A limescale remover or some vinegar will do the trick. Make sure everything’s clean and free of blockages so water can flow smoothly.

Step 6: Put it back together and test

Now, just reassemble the tap in reverse order. Make sure everything’s secure, but don’t overtighten. Turn the water supply back on, and give the tap a test. Check for leaks or any lingering issues, and you’re done!

How to Fix Dripping Tap Mixer?

1. Turn off the water supply – Before you start, make sure to isolate the water supply to avoid any leaks or mess.
2. Dismantle the tap – Carefully remove the tap handle and unscrew the cover to access the internal cartridge.
3. Remove the cartridge – Gently take out the cartridge from the tap body.
4. Inspect the ceramic discs – Check inside the cartridge for damaged or worn ceramic discs, which are often the cause of dripping.
5. Replace the cartridge if needed – If the discs are damaged, you’ll need to replace the entire cartridge with a compatible one.
6. Install the new cartridge – Fit the new cartridge into the tap, ensuring it aligns properly with the tap body.
7. Reassemble the tap – Put all the components back together, tightening each part securely.
8. Turn the water back on and test – Restore the water supply and check if the drip has stopped.
9. This method works for both traditional and monobloc mixer taps!

How to Stop a Dripping Tap Without a Washer?

If your tap has ceramic discs instead of a washer, the problem is usually the cartridge.

• First, make sure you get the right replacement cartridge for your tap model.
• Then, just take out the old one, install the new one, and put everything back together. It’s a quick and easy fix for leaks caused by worn-out ceramic discs.

How to Fix a Dripping Tap Kitchen?

The process is pretty much the same as fixing any other tap. Take it apart, clean out any grease or food bits, and check the cartridge or washer for damage. If something’s broken, replace it, and then reassemble the tap.

Tools You’ll Need to Fix a Dripping Tap

Before diving in, make sure you’ve got everything ready to go! Here’s what you’ll need:

• Adjustable wrench: Perfect for loosening or tightening tap fittings.
• Screwdrivers: To remove screws and access the inner parts.
• Allen keys: Handy for adjusting or removing tap handles.
• Replacement washers: Essential to fix leaking taps that are old.
• Spray penetrating oil: Helps loosen any stuck parts.
• Old towels: Great for soaking up water while you work.
• Descaler: Clears away limescale for smoother operation.

Preventing Future Dripping Taps

• Keep It Clean: Give your taps a little TLC by cleaning them regularly. A mild descaler works wonders to get rid of limescale and keeps washers and cartridges in good shape.
• Don’t Go Overboard: When you turn off the tap, don’t crank it too tight. Overtightening can wear it down over time and lead to bigger issues.
• Go for Quality: Invest in good-quality taps and fittings. They’re built to last, less likely to break, and can save you money on leaking tap repairs down the line.

Read our blog, “How to Conduct a Water Leak Investigation,” to gain practical insights into identifying and resolving water leaks in your home.

When to Call a Professional?

A dripping tap can be super annoying, right? While some fixes are quick and easy, there are times when it’s best to call in the experts. Here’s when to bring in an expert:

• The drip won’t stop, no matter what you try.
• The tap feels stiff or hard to turn.
• You notice water pressure issues after the dripping starts.
• There’s water damage or leaks under the sink.
• The tap has a complicated mechanism you’re not familiar with.

Don’t ignore these signs. It could mean bigger water bills or serious damage down the road. If you are looking for a reliable plumbing engineer, Serviceteam’s experts are just a call away. We’ll get your tap fixed up quickly, saving you time and hassle!

If you’re in London and need a hand, Serviceteam has you covered. We’re your go-to for plumbing and leaking tap repairs. Book with us today and let our trusted professionals take care of it- quick, easy, and stress-free!

FAQs

Why is my tap dripping?

That’s usually down to a worn-out washer, valve, or cartridge. If you live in London, hard water might also be the culprit and limescale buildup can wear out components and cause leaks over time.

Can I fix leaking tap myself?

You can probably fix dripping taps yourself if you’re handy with tools. Replacing a washer or cartridge is simple. Just remember to turn off the water supply first! Not feeling confident? No shame in calling a plumber to handle it safely.

What tools do I need to for dripping tap repair?

For the job, you’ll need an adjustable wrench, a screwdriver, plumber’s tape, and the right replacement washer or cartridge. If you’re in London, it’s worth using tools designed for hard water areas to avoid damaging your tap.

How much does it cost to fix a dripping tap in London?

A plumber in London usually charges £75–£150, depending on the complexity. DIY is much cheaper, but take the challenge only if you’re comfortable and have the right tools on hand.

How can I prevent taps from dripping in the future?

Regular maintenance is key. Check washers and cartridges now and then, avoid over-tightening taps, and consider installing a water softener to tackle that pesky limescale. Problem solved!