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

Why Do Taps Drip?

Before you start fixing, it helps to understand why taps drip in the first place.

Common Causes:

• Worn Washer - The most common cause, especially in traditional taps
• Damaged O-Ring - Small rubber ring that creates a seal
• Corroded Valve Seat - Where the tap connects to the spout
• Worn Cartridge - Common in modern mixer taps
• High Water Pressure - Can cause stress on internal components
• Loose Parts - Wear and tear from regular use

In Crawley, Horsham, Redhill, and across West Sussex and Surrey, hard water can accelerate wear on tap components, making regular maintenance even more important.

Tools You'll Need

Before you start, gather these basic tools:

Step-by-Step: Fixing a Traditional Tap

Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply

• Locate the isolation valve under the sink (turn clockwise to close)
• If there's no isolation valve, turn off the mains stopcock
• Open the tap to drain any remaining water
• Put the plug in the sink to prevent losing small parts

Step 2: Remove the Tap Handle

• Look for a small screw on top or at the base of the handle
• It might be hidden under a decorative cap (gently pry it off)
• Unscrew and remove the handle
• Place screws in a container so they don't get lost

Step 3: Remove the Headgear

• You'll see a large nut (headgear nut) - cover it with cloth to protect the chrome
• Use an adjustable spanner to turn it anti-clockwise
• If it's stuck, apply penetrating oil and wait 10 minutes
• Lift out the valve assembly

Step 4: Replace the Washer

• At the bottom of the valve, you'll see the washer held by a small nut
• Unscrew the nut and remove the old washer
• Clean the area thoroughly
• Install a new washer of the same size
• Make sure it fits snugly

Step 5: Check the O-Ring

• Inspect the rubber O-ring around the body of the valve
• If it looks worn, cracked, or damaged, replace it
• Apply a little plumber's grease to the new O-ring

Step 6: Reassemble

• Replace the valve assembly in reverse order
• Tighten the headgear nut firmly (but don't overtighten)
• Replace the tap handle and secure it
• Replace any decorative caps

Step 7: Test

• Turn the water supply back on slowly
• Check for leaks around the tap base
• Turn the tap on and off several times
• Monitor for a few hours to ensure the drip has stopped

Fixing a Modern Mixer Tap

Modern mixer taps use cartridges instead of traditional washers. These are actually easier to replace:

1. Turn off water supply - Both hot and cold feeds
2. Remove the handle - Usually held by a grub screw (often requires an Allen key)
3. Unscrew the retaining nut - This holds the cartridge in place
4. Pull out the old cartridge - Note its orientation
5. Install new cartridge - Ensure correct orientation (hot/cold sides)
6. Reassemble and test

When to Call a Professional Plumber

Sometimes, it's better to call in the experts. Contact a professional plumber if:

For residents of Crawley, Horsham, Redhill, Reigate, Horley, East Grinstead, Haywards Heath, Burgess Hill, Brighton, Epsom and surrounding areas, Mend Your Home offers fast, affordable tap repair services. We can fix any dripping tap in under an hour in most cases.

Preventing Future Drips

Once you've fixed your dripping tap, follow these tips to prevent future problems:

• Don't overtighten - Turning taps too hard wears out washers faster
• Regular maintenance - Replace washers every 2-3 years as preventive maintenance
• Clean aerators - Remove and clean tap aerators quarterly to prevent mineral build-up
• Check pressure - High water pressure can stress tap components
• Quality matters - Use quality replacement parts, not cheap alternatives

The Cost of Ignoring a Dripping Tap

For households across West Sussex and Surrey on metered water, fixing that drip quickly pays for itself!

Frequently Asked Questions