How to Fix a Leaking Tap – A Step-by-Step Guide

It Starts with a faint drip you barely notice. Then, one quiet night, it’s all you can hear. That leaking tap isn’t just testing your patience; it’s wasting water, driving up your bills, and potentially damaging your pipes over time. The silver lining? You don’t have to be a plumber to fix it. 

This practical guide on how to fix a leaking tap will take you through each step, so you can silence that drip for good and protect your home’s plumbing.

Why Is My Tap Leaking?

Several factors can cause a tap to leak, but the most common culprits are:

• Worn washers or O-rings. These small parts create a watertight seal inside the tap. Over time, they can harden or break down.
• Corroded valve seats. Mineral build-up or corrosion where the tap connects to the spout can allow water to escape.
• Loose parts. Components inside the tap can loosen over time, especially if the tap is used frequently.

Signs you might need to fix a leaking tap include persistent dripping, inconsistent water flow, or difficulty turning the tap fully off.

Step-by-Step: How to Fix a Leaking Tap

1. Turn off the water supply at the mains

Before starting, locate your home’s main water shut-off valve and turn it off to avoid any unwanted sprays or flooding.

2. Disassemble the tap

Use a wrench to loosen the tap handle and spout, but place a cloth between the wrench and the metal to protect the finish. Keep all removed parts in order for easy reassembly.

3. Inspect and replace washers or cartridges

Remove the washer or cartridge and check for wear or cracks. Replace it with the correct size (using the wrong type can cause further leaks).

4. Reassemble and test

Put the tap back together, turn the mains water back on, and slowly test the tap to make sure the leak has stopped.

What Not to Do When Fixing a Leaky Tap

• Don’t overtighten parts. This can strip threads, crack fittings, or make the leak worse.
• Don’t use the wrong washer size. It may seem like a small detail, but the wrong fit won’t seal properly.
• Don’t forget to turn off the water. Even a small trickle can create a big mess during repairs.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

If you’ve unsuccessfully tried to fix a dripping tap on your own, or if you notice signs of corrosion, it’s time to call in an expert. Some tap types are more complex and require specialist tools or knowledge. 

Our team at ProWater Plumbing offers expert leak detection services for stubborn tap or pipe issues. You can book a service here.

How to Prevent Tap Leaks in the Future

Prevention is easier (and cheaper) than repair. To avoid fixing a leaking tap down the line:

• Don’t overtighten taps after use.
• Regularly check seals for wear.
• Replace washers early if they start to degrade.
• Schedule annual plumbing inspections to catch problems before they worsen.

With a little maintenance and prompt repairs, your taps can stay drip-free for years.