Call us Now 01604 372395
How to repair a dripping tap and when is it an emergency
Dripping Taps: Repairs, & Dealing with Plumbing Emergencies
Dripping taps may seem like a minor inconvenience, but the persistent sound of water droplets hitting the sink can quickly become maddening. Moreover, that slow and steady drip can lead to not only an increase in your water bill but also the potential for more significant plumbing issues down the line..
What is a tap?
We use them every day but do you ever wonder what makes a tap, what the mechanics inside them are, and what parts are likely to go wrong? Probably not, at least not until they do go wrong, which thankfully, if fitted correctly, isn't that often.
Most household taps, consist of several key components:

- Handle: The handle is the part you turn to open or close the tap. It's typically labelled with an 'H' for hot and a 'C' for cold to indicate the water's temperature, or sometimes red for hot and blue for cold.
- Spout: The spout is where the water flows out when the tap is turned on.
- Valve: Inside the tap, there is a valve mechanism that controls the flow of water. This mechanism can vary between different types of taps.
- Washer: A washer is a small rubber or plastic disc that sits at the base of the valve. It forms a watertight seal when the tap is closed.
- O-ring: Some taps also have O-rings, which are rubber rings that create a seal and prevent leaks.
- Cartridge: In modern mixer taps, a cartridge controls both the flow and temperature of the water. It's a crucial component in preventing leaks.
Now that we have a basic understanding of the tap's anatomy, let's explore the common reasons why taps start dripping.
Common causes of dripping taps?
- Worn Washer: Over time, the washer at the base of the valve can wear out, crack, or become misshapen. This wear and tear can lead to a leak when the tap is turned off.
- Faulty O-ring: If your tap has O-rings, they can deteriorate and lose their elasticity, causing a leak.
- Loose or Damaged Parts: The tap's internal components can become loose or damaged, resulting in water escaping even when the tap is closed tightly.
- High Water Pressure: Excessively high water pressure can strain the tap's components, leading to leaks and drips.
- Corrosion: Rust and corrosion can affect the internal parts of the tap, compromising their integrity and causing leaks.
- Improper Installation: Sometimes, taps are not installed correctly, leading to immediate or eventual leaks.
Now that we know why taps drip, let's move on to the exciting part – how to repair them.
How to Repair a Dripping Tap
Note: Before you begin any repair work, it's essential to turn off the water supply to the affected tap. This can usually be done by turning the isolation valve located under the sink or at the main water supply point in your home. If you are unable to find this, or it is damaged, the water may have to be turned off at the water main outside your home.
Tools You Will Need:
- Adjustable wrench or spanner
- Screwdriver
- Replacement washer (make sure it's the correct size)
- Replacement O-ring (if applicable)
- Plumber's tape (also known, PTFE taps or Teflon tape)
Step-by-Step Tap Repair Guide
Please be aware this is a generic guide to fixing a leaking tap, however your tap design may differ from this one, and as plumbers we deal with every make, model and design of tap, if in doubt - call us out!
- Remove the Tap Handle:
- Use a screwdriver to carefully pry off the decorative cap on the top of the tap handle.
- Once the cap is removed, you'll find a screw. Use a screwdriver to unscrew it and remove the handle.
- Access the Valve Mechanism:
- After removing the handle, you'll see the valve mechanism.
- Use an adjustable wrench to loosen and remove it. Be sure to wrap a cloth around the tap to prevent any scratches.
- Replace the Washer:
- At the base of the valve, you'll find the washer. Carefully remove the old washer and replace it with a new one of the same size and type.
- Apply plumber's tape to the threads of the valve to ensure a watertight seal.
- Check and Replace O-rings (if applicable):
- If your tap has O-rings, check their condition. If they are worn or damaged, replace them with new ones.
- Reassemble the Tap:
- Carefully reattach the valve mechanism and tighten it with the adjustable wrench.
- Reattach the tap handle and secure it with the screw.
- Finally, place the decorative cap back on the handle.
- Turn On the Water Supply:
- Slowly turn on the water supply to the tap and check for leaks.
- If the dripping has stopped, congratulations, you've successfully repaired your dripping tap!
If you follow these steps and the dripping continues or worsens, it might be time to consider professional assistance. Sometimes, underlying issues that are not visible to the naked eye can be the cause of persistent leaks.
When a Dripping Tap Becomes a Plumbing Emergency
While a dripping tap is a nuisance, it doesn't typically qualify as a plumbing emergency. However, if left unaddressed or if the underlying issue worsens, it can escalate into a more significant problem. Here are some signs that your dripping tap has turned into a plumbing emergency:
- Water Damage: If you notice water stains or damage to your walls, ceiling, or flooring near the tap, it indicates a more severe leak.
- Loss of Water Pressure: A sudden drop in water pressure throughout your home could be a sign of a larger plumbing issue.
- Mould or Mildew: Excessive moisture from a leak can lead to the growth of mould or mildew, which poses health risks.
- Continuous Dripping: If the dripping doesn't stop after attempting to repair the tap, it might be a symptom of a more complex problem within your plumbing system.
- Visible Corrosion: If you observe corrosion on the tap's external components or the pipes connected to it, it's a clear indicator of a larger issue.
- Frozen or Burst Pipes: In cold weather, dripping taps can lead to frozen pipes, which can then burst, causing significant water damage.
When faced with any of these signs, it's crucial to act quickly to prevent further damage and avoid costly repairs. In such cases, it's best to contact a professional plumbing service like Assett Plumbing.
Why Choose Assett Plumbing
Assett Plumbing is your reliable partner for all plumbing needs, whether it's a dripping tap, a plumbing emergency, heating repairs, or annual boiler servicing. Here's why you should consider Assett Plumbing
- Emergency Services: Assett Plumbing offers 24/7 emergency plumbing services. They understand that plumbing issues can occur at any time, and their team is always ready to respond promptly to your calls.
- Experienced Professionals: Assett Plumbing's team consists of experienced and certified plumbers who have the expertise to handle a wide range of plumbing problems, from minor repairs to complex emergencies.
- Quality Workmanship: They are committed to delivering high-quality workmanship, ensuring that the job is done right the first time. This commitment extends to using top-notch materials, replacement parts and equipment for all their services.
- Transparent Pricing: Assett Plumbing provides transparent pricing, so you know what to expect before any work begins. They aim to offer competitive rates without compromising on the quality of service, call today on 01604 372395 for a free quotation.
- Preventative Maintenance: In addition to emergency services, Assett Plumbing offers annual boiler servicing and power flushing to keep your heating system running efficiently and prevent unexpected breakdowns.
- Local Expertise: As a local plumbing service, Assett Plumbing understands the unique plumbing challenges that homeowners in the area may face. Their knowledge of local plumbing systems and regulations ensures effective solutions.
For all your plumbing needs, whether it's a dripping tap, a plumbing emergency, heating repairs, or annual boiler servicing, Contact Assett Plumbing today at 01604 372395. Don't wait until a minor issue becomes a major problem – let Assett Plumbing keep your plumbing in top condition!
You might also like
