How to Fix a Leaking Tap

Is that constant drip driving you crazy? A leaking tap isn’t just annoying — it can waste thousands of liters of water and increase your utility bill. The good news? You don’t need a plumber. Learn how to fix a leaking tap at home with this easy, beginner-friendly guide using basic tools and minimal effort.

Why You Should Fix a Leaking Tap Immediately

Ignoring a leaking faucet can cause:

💧 Up to 20,000 liters of water wasted annually
💸 Higher water bills
🦠 Mold and mildew from constant moisture
🧱 Damage to sinks, counters, or walls

Fixing it quickly saves money, water, and hassle.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Before starting, gather these basic plumbing tools:

✅ Adjustable spanner or wrench
✅ Screwdriver (flathead or Phillips, depending on tap)
✅ Replacement washer, O-ring, or cartridge
✅ Cloth or rag
✅ WD-40 (for tight or corroded parts)
✅ Plumber’s tape (optional for sealing threads)

🛠 Most of these are inexpensive and available at any hardware store.

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

Follow these simple steps for a successful DIY fix:

1. Turn Off the Water Supply

Locate the isolation valve under the sink or shut off the main water supply.
Turn on the tap to release pressure and drain remaining water.

2. Plug the Drain Hole

Use a cloth or sink plug to prevent losing screws or washers down the drain.

3. Remove the Tap Handle

Pry off the decorative cap on top of the handle (if present)
Use a screwdriver to unscrew the handle
Pull it off gently to expose the internal tap mechanism

🛑 Be cautious — don’t force or strip the screw.

4. Loosen and Remove the Tap Bonnet

Use an adjustable wrench to unscrew the tap bonnet or cover.
Underneath, you'll find the spindle and washer assembly.

Spray WD-40 if parts are rusted or stuck.

5. Inspect and Replace the Washer or Cartridge

Depending on your tap type:

Washer-type taps: Replace the rubber washer at the base
Ceramic disc taps: Replace the entire cartridge
Mixer taps: May require a ceramic or ball cartridge

Check for wear, cracks, or hardened rubber. Take the old part to a hardware store to get the exact replacement.

6. Reassemble the Tap

Insert the new washer or cartridge
Reattach the spindle, bonnet, and handle
Use plumber’s tape on threads for a watertight seal (optional)
Tighten gently but firmly — avoid over-tightening

7. Turn Water Back On and Test

Open the isolation valve or main supply
Slowly turn on the tap
Check for leaks or drips

🎉 Success! Your tap should now be fully functional.

Types of Leaking Taps and Their Fixes

Tap Type	Likely Problem	Fix
Compression (old)	Worn rubber washer	Replace washer
Ceramic disc tap	Damaged ceramic cartridge	Replace cartridge
Mixer tap	Loose O-rings or cartridge	Replace O-rings or cartridge
Ball-type tap	Internal seals worn	Replace ball assembly kit

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Forgetting to turn off the water supply
❌ Using the wrong size washer or cartridge
❌ Over-tightening components
❌ Not cleaning corrosion before reassembly
❌ Ignoring leaks after reassembly

Double-check your steps before calling a plumber — 90% of tap leaks are easy fixes.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

Call a licensed plumber if:

You notice leaks inside walls or under floors
The tap is completely rusted or broken
Your plumbing uses old galvanized pipes
You've tried and the leak persists

Final Thoughts – Stop the Drip, Save Water & Money

Learning how to fix a leaking tap is a valuable skill that saves water, prevents damage, and keeps your home efficient. With just a few tools and a little time, you can stop the drip and restore peace to your kitchen or bathroom.

✅ No plumber needed
✅ Fast, easy fix
✅ Great weekend DIY project