How to Repair Leaking Tap

A leaking tap may seem like a minor annoyance, but over time it can waste gallons of water and add to your utility bills. Whether it’s the constant dripping sound or the water stains in your sink, learning how to repair leaking tap can save you both time and money. Fortunately, fixing a leaking tap is often a simple DIY job. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to stop that pesky drip for good.

Why Taps Leak

Before diving into how to repair leaking tap, it’s important to understand the common causes. The most frequent reasons include:

 Worn out washer or O ring

Damaged valve seat

Loose parts or connections

Corrosion inside the tap

Identifying the cause can help you apply the right fix without wasting time and effort.

Tools You’ll Need

To repair a leaking tap, gather the following tools:

Adjustable wrench

Screwdriver (flat-head and Phillips)

Replacement washers or cartridges (depending on your tap type)

Cloth or towel

Plumber’s tape

Bucket or bowl (to catch water)

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Repair Leaking Tap

Turn Off the Water Supply

Before starting any repair work, locate and turn off the water supply valve beneath the sink. Open the tap to release any remaining water in the pipes. This step prevents flooding and keeps your workspace dry.

Plug the Drain

Use a sink plug or a cloth to block the drain. This prevents any small parts, such as screws or washers, from falling into it and getting lost.

Disassemble the Tap

Use a screwdriver to remove the tap handle. You may need to lift a cover or cap to access the screw. Once the handle is removed, use an adjustable wrench to loosen and take out the spindle or cartridge.

Inspect and Replace Washers or Cartridges

Inspect the washer or cartridge for signs of wear, cracks, or flattening. In most cases, a worn-out washer is the culprit. Replace it with a new one of the exact size. If your tap uses a ceramic cartridge instead of a washer, you’ll need to replace the cartridge.

Reassemble the Tap

Once you’ve replaced the damaged part, reassemble the tap by reversing the disassembly steps. Make sure all parts are tightened properly but not overly tight, as that may cause further damage.

Turn On Water Supply and Test

Turn the water supply back on and test the tap for leaks. If it still leaks, double-check your assembly and ensure the washer or cartridge is seated correctly.

Preventing Future Leaks

While knowing how to repair leaking tap is helpful, prevention is always better than cure. Here are a few tips to prevent leaks in the future:

Avoid over tightening the tap

Regularly check for early signs of wear

Clean the tap regularly to avoid mineral build-up

Replace washers or cartridges every few years

When to Call a Professional

If your tap continues to leak despite your repair efforts, or if you’re dealing with an older or corroded system, it may be time to call in a plumber. Persistent leaks could be a sign of deeper issues within your plumbing.

Conclusion

A leaking tap is more than just an irritation it’s a drain on your resources and the environment. With a few basic tools and some know how, you can learn how to repair leaking tap and handle the issue yourself. From replacing worn out washers to installing a new cartridge, the process is straightforward and beginner friendly. So, next time you hear that annoying drip, you’ll know exactly what to do to fix it and fast.