How to Fix a Dripping Tap (And When to Call a Pro)

A dripping tap isn't just annoying - it's wasting water and costing you money. The good news? Most dripping taps are an easy DIY fix. Here's how to sort it.

Why Taps Drip

Before we fix it, it helps to understand why taps drip:

• Worn washer - The most common cause (90% of drips)
• Damaged O-ring - Usually causes leaks around the handle
• Corroded valve seat - Less common, harder to fix
• Worn cartridge - In modern mixer taps

What You'll Need

For a basic washer replacement:

• Adjustable spanner or tap spanner
• Flat-head screwdriver
• Replacement washer (take the old one to the shop to match size)
• Cloth or towel
• Optional: penetrating oil (WD-40)

Cost: Under £5 for washers and O-rings

Step-by-Step: Fixing a Traditional Tap

Step 1: Turn Off the Water

Find the isolation valve under the sink and turn it off (clockwise). If there's no isolation valve, turn off the mains.

Pro tip: Turn the tap on to drain any remaining water and confirm the supply is off.

Step 2: Remove the Tap Handle

Pop off the decorative cap (usually marked H or C) with a flat screwdriver. Underneath you'll find a screw - remove it and lift off the handle.

Step 3: Remove the Headgear

Using your spanner, unscrew the headgear nut (the brass bit). Turn anti-clockwise. If it's stiff, wrap a cloth around it first to protect the finish.

Stuck? A bit of WD-40 and patience usually does the trick.

Step 4: Replace the Washer

At the bottom of the headgear, you'll see the washer held in place by a small nut or just pushed onto a spigot. Remove the old washer and fit the new one.

Step 5: Reassemble

Put everything back in reverse order:

1. Screw in the headgear
2. Refit the handle
3. Replace the screw
4. Pop the cap back on

Step 6: Test

Turn the water back on slowly. Check for leaks around the handle and test the tap.

Fixing a Mixer Tap

Modern mixer taps usually have ceramic disc cartridges instead of washers. The process is similar but you'll need to:

1. Find the grub screw (usually hidden under the hot/cold indicator)
2. Remove the handle
3. Unscrew and remove the cartridge
4. Take it to a plumbing supplier to find a match
5. Fit the new cartridge

Cartridges cost £15-£40 depending on the brand.

When to Call a Professional

DIY isn't always the answer. Call a pro if:

• The tap is very old - Seized parts can break, causing bigger problems
• You can't find replacement parts - Some taps need specific components
• There's damage to the valve seat - This needs reseating or replacing
• You're not confident - No shame in that
• It's a pressurised system - Combi boilers and unvented cylinders need qualified work

A handyman can usually fix a dripping tap in 15-30 minutes. At our rates, that's around £60 including parts.

Prevention Tips

To avoid future drips:

• Don't overtighten taps (this damages washers faster)
• Fix drips early (they only get worse)
• Consider upgrading old taps - modern ceramic disc taps last much longer

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Rather leave it to us? We fix dripping taps across Exeter for a fixed price. Call 01392 964094 or get a quote.