Drip. Drip. Drip. The sound of a leaky tap is a special kind of household annoyance. Not only is it irritating and a waste of water, but it can also feel like one of those jobs you put off until it becomes a bigger problem. But what if we told you that fixing a dripping tap is one of the most straightforward plumbing tasks you can do yourself?
You don’t need to be a professional to tackle this one. In most cases, a dripping tap is caused by a simple, worn-out part called a washer. Over time, these little rubber or plastic rings degrade, and they can no longer create a perfect seal. Once you understand that, the fix is much less intimidating.
Ready to silence that drip for good? Here’s our friendly, step-by-step guide on how to fix a dripping tap with confidence.
Before you start, you’ll need:
- A flathead screwdriver
- An adjustable spanner or a set of spanners
- A replacement washer kit (you can find these at any hardware store)
- A cloth or towel
- A pair of gloves (optional)
Your guide to a dripping tap repair
Follow these steps carefully and you’ll be on your way to a leak-free tap.
Step 1: Turn off the Water Supply
This is the most crucial step. Find your main stopcock (usually under the kitchen sink or near your water meter) and turn it off. To be extra safe, turn on the leaking tap to drain any remaining water from the pipes and relieve the pressure.
Step 2: Cover the Drain
Place a cloth over the plughole. This simple trick will prevent you from accidentally dropping any tiny screws or parts down the drain. You’ll thank yourself later!
Step 3: Dismantle the Tap
Now, it’s time to take your tap apart. Use your screwdriver to carefully prize off the decorative cover on the top of the tap (the one marked with “H” for hot or “C” for cold). Underneath, you’ll find a screw. Unscrew this and set it aside safely. This will allow you to remove the tap handle and expose the main part of the tap.
Step 4: Replace the Washer
Using your spanner, carefully unscrew the main nut that holds the inner mechanism of the tap in place. This is where you’ll find the culprit—the old, worn-out washer. Remove it and take it with you to the hardware store to get a perfect match. Once you have the new washer, fit it in the exact same spot.
Step 5: Reassemble Everything
Now, work backwards to put the tap back together. Screw the main nut back into place, then reattach the handle, the screw, and finally, the decorative cover. Make sure everything is secure but don’t overtighten it.
Step 6: Turn the Water Back On and Test
Slowly turn your main stopcock back on. Then, open the newly-fixed tap to make sure the water flows correctly and, most importantly, that there are no drips. Congratulations—you’ve completed a successful dripping faucet repair!
What if my tap is still dripping?
While a new washer will fix most leaky taps, sometimes the problem is more complex. A worn-out valve, a damaged seal, or a faulty internal component might be the real issue. If your tap is still dripping after a new washer, or if you’re uncomfortable with the process, that’s perfectly okay. Knowing when to call in an expert is the mark of a truly savvy homeowner.
A professional plumber can quickly diagnose and fix more serious leaks, ensuring the job is done safely and correctly the first time. The goal is to stop a leaking tap for good, and sometimes that means bringing in an experienced and qualified person to help.
With Rated People, you have the power to get it done. Find a trusted, local tradesperson today.