How to Fix a Leaking Tap: A Simple DIY Guide for Homeowners
There’s nothing more annoying than the constant drip-drip-drip of a leaking tap. Not only is it frustrating to listen to, but those small leaks can also add up over time, wasting water and money. While it’s always best to call a plumber for more complex issues, fixing a leaking tap is actually something many homeowners can do themselves with the right tools and a bit of patience.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the simple steps to fix a leaking tap and help you get your home back to quiet and efficient operation in no time.
1. Identify the Type of Tap You Have
Before diving in, it’s important to know what kind of tap you’re dealing with. There are a few different types, including:
Compression Taps: These taps have two handles—one for hot water and one for cold. They use washers to control the water flow.
Ball Taps: Commonly found in kitchen faucets, these taps are controlled by a single handle and use a ball-and-socket mechanism to control water flow.
Cartridge Taps: These are similar to ball taps but use a cartridge mechanism to control water flow.
Ceramic Disc Taps: Known for their smooth operation, these taps use ceramic discs to regulate water flow and are less likely to wear out than the other types.
Knowing the type of tap helps you understand how it works and what parts you’ll need to replace.
2. Turn Off the Water Supply
Before you do anything, make sure to turn off the water supply to the tap. You’ll usually find the shutoff valve under the sink, close to where the pipes connect to the tap. Turning this off ensures that no water flows while you’re working on the tap, keeping things dry and safe.
Fixing a leaking tap is more than just a small task—it’s a chance to save water, reduce your bills, and avoid bigger plumbing problems down the road. A quick fix today can prevent costly repairs tomorrow.
TRUSTED LOCAL PLUMBERS
3. Disassemble the Tap
Next, use the appropriate tools (usually a wrench or screwdriver) to remove the handle and any decorative covers. Depending on the type of tap, you might need to remove a retaining screw to lift off the handle.
Once the handle is off, you’ll likely be left with a cartridge, valve, or ball mechanism that controls the water flow. Carefully remove this, noting how each part is positioned for easy reassembly.
4. Inspect and Replace the Faulty Parts
This is where the fix typically happens. A leaking tap is usually caused by a worn-out washer, cartridge, or valve. Check the parts for any signs of damage, such as cracks, fraying, or corrosion.
Compression taps: Check the rubber washers. If they look worn, it’s time to replace them.
Ball and cartridge taps: These usually need a full cartridge replacement if they’re leaking.
Ceramic disc taps: If the ceramic discs are scratched or damaged, they may need to be replaced.
Once you’ve found the culprit, take the damaged part to your local hardware store to find a matching replacement.
5. Reassemble and Test
After replacing the faulty part, reassemble the tap by following the reverse of the disassembly process. Tighten everything securely, but don’t overdo it—stripping the threads can lead to leaks later.
Turn the water supply back on, check for leaks, and test the tap’s function. If the tap is still leaking, you may need to double-check the parts or ensure everything was reassembled correctly.
Final Thoughts
Fixing a leaking tap is an easy and satisfying DIY project that saves you water and money. With a little knowledge and the right tools, you can stop that annoying drip and avoid wasting water. If the problem persists or seems more complicated, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional plumber for help.
For more DIY tips or to find a trusted plumber in your area, check out Trusted Local Plumbers.
