If a kitchen or bathroom tap drips, it can quickly become a major problem that could end up costing you your property.
But, fixing a leaky tap is something that every homeowner should be able to do. It's similar to bleeding from a radiator. This guide will help you fix a leaky tap in a straightforward, step-by-step manner.
What you will need
All your tools should be in one place so you don't have to leave the area. These tools are required:
- Adjustable spanner
- Screwdrivers with flathead and cross-head heads
- Scissors
- Assorted washers, O-rings, and replacement cartridges
Here are some top tips to help you get started:
Before you begin any plumbing work, make sure that the water is turned off. Turn off the water supply and turn on the taps to drain any remaining water. This will allow you to release the pressure in your pipes.
- To prevent any accidental loss of small parts, make sure you put the plug in the hole before you begin disassembling the tap.
- Chrome taps can be easily scratched by screwdrivers and spanners. Use a soft cloth to protect your chrome hardware.
- Do not tighten the washers or valves too much when assembling. This could cause damage to the joint.
How to fix a traditional tap
1. Use a screwdriver to isolate the water. If your sink has an isolation valve (usually located on the pipes under or near the sink), you can use your screwdriver for turning it off. If you don't see one, turn off the water supply at the stopcock located under your kitchen sink. Run the tap until you run out of water.
2. Make sure that the taps do not leak water
Before you can remove the dripping tap, your taps must be completely drained.
3. Remove the tap cover
There are many types of tap covers or caps. You will need to locate the screw beneath it. Check under decorative hot or cold caps, as well as the hot and cool indicator for single-lever taps, if they are on the top of the tap. These caps can be unscrewed by hand or gently removed with a flathead screwdriver. You may need an Allen key.
4. Remove the tap handle from the tap and take out the valve
You should now be able to see the screw holding the tap together at the top. To access the valve, you will need to completely loosen it.
There are many types of compression tap valve covers. There are two options: a traditional cover with a spindle at its top and the cover underneath; or a cover that has grips to allow you to turn. You can take out the tap head in either case by following these steps:
- Use a crosshead screwdriver to unscrew the top bolt
- To loosen the valve, use an adjustable spanner. Then remove it.
- The washer should be removed from its place by removing the nut.
- Use an adjustable spanner to hold the valve steady and a screwdriver for the removal of the washer.
Top tip: Place all of your pieces on the side or on a towel. This will make it easy to reassemble the tap after you have fixed it.
5. To check the seating, run your finger through the tap
The problem with a tap that is constantly dripping is often the tap seat. This is where the washer rests when the tap is closed. It is in good condition and creates a seal that stops water from running. It will show signs of wear and tear by small holes in the seat's metal. This can be fixed by:
- Use a seat grinder to grind the remaining seat to the same level as these canals. This creates a flat and smooth seat for the washer to use to seal the water flow.
- Buy a seat insert kit that adds a new piece to form a seal
If your tap seat is indeed eroded, you can try one of these fixes to fix it. Then, turn your water on again and test the drip. You may discover that the problem was not with the washer but the tap.
6. Replace the tap washer
After you have checked and repaired the tap valve seat, inspect the washer for wear and tear. Replace if necessary.
7. Turn on the water supply, reassemble the tap and look for drips
You should now be dry and clean after you have had the washer and seat checked and/or repaired.
How to fix a ceramic disc tap
Modern taps only turn a quarter of their way, and they often have a ceramic disc within the valve.
Top tip To ensure that you get a replacement of the same quality, it's best to take these to a plumber or DIY store. There are many types. Follow the steps below to fix ceramic disc taps like an expert.
1. Use a screwdriver to isolate the water.
Use a screwdriver to turn off the isolation valve, if it is present. This is typically located on the pipes under or near the sink. If you don't see one, turn off your water supply at the stopcock (usually located under your kitchen sink). Run the tap until you run out of water.
2. Make sure no water is coming out of the taps
Before you can remove the dripping tap, your taps must be fully drained. To prevent any pieces from falling into the sink, make sure you put the plug in the sink.
Take out the tap head. There are many styles and types of ceramic disc taps. All will have removable tops or "headgear", as plumbers refer to it. You can check the headgear to see if there are any openings. In our video example, we had to remove the handle to reach a small opening that holds an Allen key. Once the Allen key is removed, you will need to remove the top. Other taps will allow the top to come off or lift off. You can also gently pop it off with a flathead screwdriver.
Remove the screw from the inside. You can use a crosshead or Allen key to do the job.
- You can either remove the headgear or the cover. Depending on your tap's style, you can either lift the whole headgear off or remove the valve cover. Wrap it with masking tape, a soft cloth, or some other material to minimize damage. Then use an adjustable spanner for help in unscrewing it.
- Use an adjustable spanner to loosen the hexagonal bolt at the neck. This could cause damage to the pipework beneath.
- The entire ceramic disc valve should be removed (sometimes called a cartridge). You will need to replace the ceramic disc valve if it appears cracked or worn. You can get the left- or right-handed.
- Secure the valve, and then put the tap back together in the reverse order.
How to stop a leaky spout
Mixer taps can leak or drip from the bottom because they have moveable spouts. This is more likely to be a problem with your mixer tap washer than the O-ring.
1. Use a box spanner for loosening the bolt that holds the tap to your sink from below.
2. Twist your tap around to get better access. Then, use a screwdriver the removal of the grub screws.
3. Lift the spout to access the O-ring. This is the rubber ring that sits at the base of the spout.
4. Use a flathead screwdriver for loosening the O-ring. Or, you can just use a pair of scissors to snip it.
5 Roll the replacement O-ring in place.
6 To replace the spout line up the marker on your spout with the groove of the tap body. Then, slide the spout into place. Re-tighten the grub screw as well as the nut under the sink to secure the tap.
When should you call the professionals?
Our professional plumbers are available to assist you if you have not followed our steps and still experience leaking taps or pipe problems.
FAQs
Q. Is it normal for a tap drip?
A worn washer could lead to a dripping or leaking tap. You can usually fix it yourself by simply replacing the washer. You can follow our step-by-step guide to learn how to fix the tap that is leaking. The instructions will vary depending on which type you have.
Q. Is a dripping tap dangerous?
While not necessarily dangerous, a leaking tap can lead to water pooling and the growth of mould. Water damage to the cabinets and floorboards around the tap can cause them to rot and weaken.
Q. Will a dripping tap get worse?
Dripping taps can become more serious over time. This can lead to more expensive repairs and more problems. It is best to repair a leaking tap immediately.
Q. Is a dripping tap an emergency?
It is okay to let the water drip down your sink if it isn't causing any immediate danger. You can call a professional plumber if you are unable to fix the leaky tap.
Q. How much water does a dripping tap waste?
You could waste approximately four litres of water per day if your tap drips every second. This is almost enough water to fill a bathtub! It is easy to see how a dripping tap could become costly over time.