How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?
43 Answers
Answered by JL Plumbing
12th July 2023
JL Plumbing answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
1. Isolate water supply to hot and cold. 2. Remove cartridge’s and identify parts needed. 3. Install new washer/cartridge, tap may need reseating. Tap should now be fixed, hurray. One more thing to do is check water pressure just in case it is too high and might result in a leaky tap again.
Answered by PLO Maintenance Ltd
29th July 2022
PLO Maintenance Ltd answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
It’s Dependant on the type of tap and where the leak is coming from for traditional taps where the leak is coming from the spout of the tap the rubber washer needs replacing for monobloc style taps the ceramic cartridge needs replacing. Tools you will need to replace the ceramic cartridge • Screwdriver with a cross head • Spanner that is adjustable • Sealing Lubricant • New Ceramic Replacement Cartridge Isolate the water supply from the mains. Remove the tap with the screwdriver, remove the faucet from the stem with a little lubricant. Loosen the nuts before removing the stem and before fitting the replacement cartridge re tighten nuts when replacement cartridge has been fitted and test for any further leaks before turning the mains water supply back on and your done!
Answered by Rosebourne Plumbing
16th July 2022
Rosebourne Plumbing answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
Locate the isolation valves for the hot cold feed to the taps, this can be underneath the basin, bath, sink, stopcock and road stopcock. Run the taps to drain out the remaining water and confirm the water is isolated. From the valve from the tap by removing the head on the tap this either by taking off the screw cap and locating the internal screw that goes down the spindle or unscrewing the cap that cover plate surround that is below the spindle. Care must be taken not to damage the aesthetics of the tap. Using grips or a adjustable spanner untighten the valve from the body of the tap using the nut. This can be tricky as the thread is usually full of limescale and may require holding the body of the tap to prize it off. Once off you will either see an old washer that can be replaced or two plate ceramic discs for quarter turn taps in which case the valve / cartridge removed will need to be replaced. Refit as necessary with the tap fully open for a washer type valve and then turn off the tap. Slowly unisolate the hot and cold feeds, check and commission.
Answered by Lawrence Plumbing & Property Services
14th October 2021
Lawrence Plumbing & Property Services answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
Depending on the tap itself, this is quite an easy straight forward job and would take a plumber 10mins to repair. There are two most common types of taps, which would either require replacing the complete valve or just the washer. The other type are ceramic valves, which would require replacing the complete valve
Answered by pAd Plumbing & Heating
22nd July 2020
pAd Plumbing & Heating answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
all depending on the tap itself, make model. standard BS1010 you would quite easily isolate supply remove cap - screw - tap head - clip - body - either replace the body complete or just the rubber and advised to check the seating too. ceramic discs are another type but would recommended you change parts like 4 like as these may be more sophisticated- like grub screw keys - you'll probably find it much easier to change this type if not sentimental value.
Answered by Albert Williams Ltd
15th July 2020
Albert Williams Ltd answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
Depends on the tap, if it is a quarter turn then you will need to change the cartridge but make sure that the cartridge is an identical replacement including length and no of spindles. If this is a tap that you turn over half turn then you will need to change the washer inside the tap and add a bit of silicon grease to help give it a smooth action.
Answered by Phillips plumbing & heating
18th May 2020
Phillips plumbing & heating answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
There are several ways to repair a leaking/ dripping tap, it depends on the style of tap or the issue you have. On the pillar style taps you would usually change the washer inside the tap, if it is also stiff you may need to change the whole cartridge. Sometimes it is necessary to re seat the tap where the washer sits. If it is a lever tap only option is to change the cartridge. In a lot of cases the prices isn’t much different to just replace the whole tap.
Answered by Home Heating Solutions
8th April 2020
Home Heating Solutions answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
Depending on your tap. You can change the rubber seat washer or if a quarter turn tap a new ceramic insert. These are the two main dripping tap issues. In some instances it may not be viable to repair the tap or if the tap needs removing in order to remove insert then might be as well installing new taps. Thanks Robert
Answered by P J Refurbishments Ltd
1st April 2020
P J Refurbishments Ltd answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
Will all depend on the taps. Kitchen, basin mixers shut the water off open up the tap replace the cartridge. single taps for hot and cold pretty much the same scenario, shut the water off, check the washer, check the jumper then replace. however i will always change the taps heads and cartridges with the kits that are available.
Answered by Jcm plumbing & heating
13th February 2020
Jcm plumbing & heating answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
Generally speaking it's just a case of turning off water supply to taps and removing body and replacing washers that has worn. Sometimes they might be ceramic disc taps which will require you to remove ceramic disc body and take to a plumbers merchants to try and source correct ceramic disc as there are so many different variations, so will require correct part. Once you have the correct part it's just a case of inserting new bodies into tap!
Answered by Westcountry Plumbing & Tiling
6th February 2020
Westcountry Plumbing & Tiling answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
Depending on the type of tap it’s generally a pretty straight forward fix. You can replace the cartridge or replace the washer and reseat the tap will also work. In my experience most customers have already been out and bought a new set of taps for me to fit rather than repairing the old ones.
Answered by JB'S Plumbing
12th January 2020
JB'S Plumbing answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
depending on the type of tap it could be a washer or ceramic disc, you need to isolate the supply then remove the old faulty and replace with new and reinstate supply.
Answered by Snug Heating & Plumbing
11th November 2019
Snug Heating & Plumbing answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
If fitted correctly, there will be two isolation valves within the cupboard of the unit. These can be turned either by a lever valve with the hand, or a quarter turn isolation valve with a screwdriver. Depending on what tap is fitted, would depend on how to repair the tap. A tap on a rubber washer can be easily replaced without changing the tap or cartridge. A quarter turn tap would normally mean it's working off a plastic cartridge. The cause for the trip could be many different reasons and for this we recommend replacing the cartridge. If for whatever reason a new cartridge is not available for the tap, then we would be required to replace the unit.
Answered by PRIME Plumbing & Maintenance
27th October 2019
PRIME Plumbing & Maintenance answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
Always isolate the water supply before repairing or replacing the tap . The tap body can be removed to reveal a rubber washer assembly or cartridge with ceramic disc fitted .Also should inspect tap seating if in good condition and if ok and good availability of spares then a repair can be done. If tap is quite old and worn etc , would recommend a well known brand of tap with a good warranty on the product
Answered by Plumblife
7th October 2019
Plumblife answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
Firstly i would always advise to get the tap replaced unless its an expensive brand of tap or is nearly new but if you would prefer to try and fix the tap you need to start by shutting the water off and removing the cartridge. If the tap is the rubber washer style then replace the rubber washers. If its a ceramic disc tap - have a look online for a spare cartridges that will fit the brand/model tap and replace the cartridge.
Answered by Absolute PhD
2nd October 2019
Absolute PhD answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
Repairing a tap isn’t and doesn’t have to be the hassle it once was. The only real issue is finding the right valve. If it’s a valve with a rubber washer, it’s simply a case of isolating the water and removing the old valve. This may be seized in place but with the right tool it will come out. There is no point in just replacing the rubber washer anymore, there cheap enough to buy so you may as well replace. This also saves on the messy work or re-greasing. Have a quick look at the seating and reseat if necessary. Please note that not all taps can be reseated. If this is the case then replace the tap. If it is a quarter turn valve, then follow the same process but replace like for like.
Answered by Plumbsolve Glasgow Ltd
1st October 2019
Plumbsolve Glasgow Ltd answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
Firstly there are 3 common types of tap valve; the old fashioned non-ceramic washer valves which continue to turn round and round until the tap is open or shut, a quarter turn ceramic valve which will as suggested only turn a quarter turn to open or shut and newer style cartridge valves which will operate by lifting the lever up or down to give you water and then rotate to give hot/cold or a mixture of both. The first can usually be repaired by simply removing the valve and replacing the rubber washer on the valve, the second and third style would in the majority of cases involve replacing the full valve, these valves can be particular to the tap or the manufacturer and may take some research to find the correct replacement. Note: when undertaking these repairs you will have to switch the water supply off at your mains stopcock and if you are unsure about anything it is advisable to call a qualified plumber.
Answered by Beagle Heating, Plumbing & Gas Ltd
28th September 2019
Beagle Heating, Plumbing & Gas Ltd answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
Dripping taps are the bane of many peoples lives but can generally be rectified fairly easily, the easiest taps to repair are the older type ones with a rubber washer, your local plumber can rewasher and reseat these taps for you at a reasonable cost. More modern taps however can be slightly more complicated as most now have ceramic disc cartridges that can come in a myriad of different manufacturer options. We would suggest if you are having a new tap fitted you note the manufacturer and model of the tap to make things easier in the future when you will inevitably have to replace the cartridge. Having said that it is now becoming a lot easier to replace the cartridges as merchants are getting on top of this and offering a wide range of accessories.
Answered by Careys Plumbing & Gas Ltd
19th September 2019
Careys Plumbing & Gas Ltd answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
If a tap is leaking then there are a few things to consider. If the tap is showing signs of wear and tear then it might be worth thinking about replacing the tap itself. It may end up costing more to keep replacing failing parts on a tap when a new tap will work and look better and carry a manufacturers warranty for piece of mind. Also check what type of tap you are fixing as some use ceramic plates and others may only need a rubber washer replacement.
Answered by Andrew Stevenson Plumbing & Heating
11th August 2019
Andrew Stevenson Plumbing & Heating answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
To fix a leaking or dripping tap you first need to know the type of tap it is. If it is a quarter turn tap it will have a ceramic cartridge which will need to be measured to get the correct size for the replacement cartridge. If it's not a quarter turn it may be possible to just replace the washer on the gland but if the gland is damaged a new tap body will be required. If you are going to attempt the repair yourself you will need to isolate the hot & cold water supply to the tap. If you are unsure or not confident to do this contact a professional plumber like ourselves Andrew Stevenson Plumbing and Heating
Answered by N R PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES
7th August 2019
N R PLUMBING & HEATING SERVICES answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
Firstly you would see what insides are in the taps. A quarter turn are normally a ceramic type . There are many different types in length, star formation on the top were the head attaches. Then you have the cartridge type and standard washer/spindle type.I usually carry a stock of different types. Firstly you would isolate the hot/cold supply to the tap and remove the tap heads then insides. Tap insides which are the washer type are a lot easier to just replace. Ceramic type most times I would supply and fit a new tap with a manufacturers guarantee.
Answered by J & S Plumbing & Heating
5th August 2019
J & S Plumbing & Heating answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
Personally we recommend replacing the tap every time. The metal inside the tap wears away and causes issues. Also the tap may have a build up of limescale on the inlet and outlet. the head gears are also personally designed for each manufacturer and the universal ones are never an exact replacement. For the best results a new tap will be much better long term then trying to fix the tap. If the taps is a quarter turn tap.then we definetly recommend replacing as every single quarter turn tap has different head gear. If you really want to replace the head gear then you can, but be prepared to try 3 or 4 different ones.
Answered by NDC Property Services
26th July 2019
NDC Property Services answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
You have to determine if it’s a quarter turn tap or a standard tap quarter turn usually means you will have to put new cartridge inside quarter turn taps are hard to fix most off the time you can’t find the exact cartridge it just as easy to change the tap a standard tap will need reseating with a cutting tool to put a new seat into the brass part wear the washer fits then fitting a new washer inside off the tap inside then fit a new washer inside off tap spindle
Answered by LCP Plumbing Ltd
23rd June 2019
LCP Plumbing Ltd answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
First of all we need to determine the type of tap, whether it’s a full turn or quarter turn type. Full turn will require a washer change, the water can be isolated the gland taken out and the inside of the tap inspected. If there are any scores on the surface then they can be repaired by recutting the surface with a tap re-seater tool and then the washer replaced A quarter turn will require a replacement cartridge ( the whole mechanism) LCP plumbing used to carry many different types and sizes to cover most tap types, but often of course there would be one that we didn’t have that we would have to order. Now however we just carry the tap medic tool kit which allows us to repair the cartridge on site. The water supply is restored and checked
Answered by Lee Key Plumbers
13th June 2019
Lee Key Plumbers answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
There are different types of tap, however all taps should have a means of isolating the individual hot and cold supply to the tap. The isolators commonly look like a chrome fitting with a nut either end of it. They have what looks like a slotted screwdriver head on it. This is simply turned through 90 degrees to isolate the water supply. This is convenient to stop that annoying dripping noise and to prevent water wastage whilst waiting to get the tap completed. To confirm the tap is isolated open the tap to check that no water is being delivered. If water is still running turn the isolation valve until the water stops. This will now allow for the tap valve to be removed and replaced or serviced as necessary. As you have been reading this it would be a good time to check if your taps have isolation valves and also the location of you main stop cock, usually located under the kitchen sink.
Answered by D.A Gas, Heating & Plumbing
4th June 2019
D.A Gas, Heating & Plumbing answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
First of all you need to be able tot urn the water off and ensure the water flow has stopped. Then take the tap apart, some are easier than others. Once you have removed the tap body you'll need to determine the type. If its a 1/4 turn ceramic cartridge you'll need to visit your local plumbers merchants and get a match. If its a traditional style with a washer, you'll be able to remove and replace the washer with the same size. Put the tap back together and turn the water back on and test.
Answered by Your LOCAL Plumber
1st June 2019
Your LOCAL Plumber answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
The type of tap you have would depend on the type of repair required. In all cases the supply of water must be isolated and then select which type of tap you have. Primarily there are 3 types to choose from. First , would be a standard washer based tap. Secondly, a quarter turn ceramic affair. Finally, a cartridge based mixer unit. There can be many different styles
Answered by Gas On Sea
29th May 2019
Gas On Sea answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
To fix or repair a leaking tap firstly water should be isolated and drained. Then depending on the type of tap cartridge will determine the repair method either the cartridge as a whole or a washer to fix the problem. BoilerOne recommend you consult a verified plumber to diagnose the problem
Answered by Mark Best Plumbing and Heating
14th May 2019
Mark Best Plumbing and Heating answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
Well it all depends on what style tap you have that’s is dripping or leaking. If it the old style tap where you have keep turning the head to shut the water off. It will be the washer that is letting by and you can just the washer, if it the new type taps 1/4 turn or sometimes lever taps you will have to find the right cartridge for the tap and replaced it to stop it dripping
Answered by Greenwich Plumbing Company
8th May 2019
Greenwich Plumbing Company answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
These days the method of fixing a dripping tap depends on the type of tap you have. If it’s a traditional screw down to shut tap the washer can be changed or the tap body reseated to stop the drip, or if it’s a modern quarter turn style tap the ceramic tap gland can be changed, also it could be a mixer tap with a cartridge that can also be replaced. So for a plumber this means carrying a variety of spares to suit any style of tap.
Answered by J. Wheatley Gas Plumbing and Heating Ltd
3rd May 2019
J. Wheatley Gas Plumbing and Heating Ltd answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
All different taps are fixed in all different ways and it totally depends on which tap you have. Here at J.Wheatley Gas, Plumbing and Heating Ltd. all our plumbers carry multiple materials, spare parts and new taps on their vans so we are ready for every possibility whilst at your property.
Answered by D.H plumbing
29th April 2019
D.H plumbing answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
All different taps are fixed in different ways a standard tap would have a washer that could be replaced or the body re seated. A newer style tap could have ceramic quarter turn cartridges they could be swapped over with new ones. There’s al mono mixers that have a combined cartridge that would need replacing.
Answered by Apex Property Services
27th April 2019
Apex Property Services answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
Fixing a dripping/leaking tap all depends of the type of tap. Either a new washer or a new ceramic tap gland. Deburring the seating on tap body is also another idea so the washer can seat down properly to prevent and drips. Ceramic taps come in all different sizes but reviver kits can get over this different sizes
Answered by J C Heating & Electrical Ltd
24th April 2019
J C Heating & Electrical Ltd answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
You need to isolate the water supply usually from iso valves close to the taps to be repaired or you will have to turn off the stop cock to isolate usually on older systems & it can repaired as a seal to be replaced or the whole tap that may be defective & needs to be replaced completely.
Answered by BPH - Blakemore Plumbing And Heating
25th March 2019
BPH - Blakemore Plumbing And Heating answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
All depends on the type of tap you have. There are two different types. Some have washer some have cartridges. The quarter turn taps are the cartridge type. More often that not on the pillar type taps it’s just the washer that will need repairing. In the rare case you would need to use some tap restorers. On the cartridge type, if dripping usually it’s usually the disc in the cartridge that is passing water. These are repairable and will need a new cartridge. Some times universal cartridges will do the job but these don’t generally fit. Most people will say a new tap but we use Tap Medic and this lets us create a specific cartridge for a specific tap from the kit, saving on waste and the need to renew the tap. Firstly you will need to isolate the water. Remove the head of the tap(S) to get to the body. With a pair of adjusters or pump pliers remove the cartridge or tap. This will enable you to then fit a new washer or fit a new cartridge. Reassemble in reverse order.
Answered by Cliff Plumbing & Heating Limited
15th March 2019
Cliff Plumbing & Heating Limited answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
A dripping tap can usually be repaired by fitting a new washer or cartridge, depending on the style of tap. First turn off the water supply to the tap, then you will need to open the tap to relieve the pressure. Then remove the tap head and shroud to gain access to tap body. Use a spanner to remove the tap body, but be careful not to loosen the tap as you do this (hold the tap spout) Then you can fit a new tap washer or cartridge and replace in reverse order.
Answered by J W Plumbing and Building services LTD
9th March 2019
J W Plumbing and Building services LTD answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
Isolate water supply, Relieve pressure , Remove spindle / cartridge with correct tools, Replace with size specific washer, Replace spindle or cartridge with correct tools and specialist lubricants..... Re instate water supply and test. All taps vary in ways to isolate, strip down and washers required. We can help further upon inspection of taps / faucets and advise accordingly
Answered by Alltime Plumbing & Heating
28th February 2019
Alltime Plumbing & Heating answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
you need to isolate the water supply to the tap then remove the handle and head of the tap. you can replace the washer or get a new cartridge depending whether its a cermaic disc or not this is quite an easy job if you know how but I would always recommend getting a qualified plumber to do the job
Answered by MJS Plumbing, Heating and Maintenance
15th February 2019
MJS Plumbing, Heating and Maintenance answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
Isolate tap from the mains, remove the tap handle and then the valve. Depending on whether you have a full turn tap or a 1/4 turn tap the repairs are different. On a full turn it will be the rubber washer that has worn, simply remove the old and replace with one the same size. If a 1/4 turn tap the ceramic cartridge will need replacing, it is easier to do this if you know the tap manufacturer. As there are numerous versions of a cartridge, it is sometimes easier to just replace the tap.
Answered by A Royal Flush Plumbing
12th February 2019
A Royal Flush Plumbing answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
Leaking or dripping taps can usually be fixed with a new washer or ceramic cartridge, make sure you take one with you that you have removed from the taps after isolating the water supply to ensure you get the correct one, there are different types and sizes which are not always noticeable at first. These are readily available from any plumbers merchant or DIY store. If a monobloc tap then a new cartridge will be needed that is usually ordered from the merchants. In certain cases the tap heads will need to be re-seated to stop the leak. in this case it is best to call in a plumber who can do this for you or can easily change the taps which sometimes is the least expensive of the solutions. once you have changed the tap heads/washer then turn the water on a little bit to check for leaks below the tap as movement is a common occurance when changing tap heads which can loosen fittings underneath.
Answered by PipeDream Plumbing
11th February 2019
PipeDream Plumbing answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
Dripping taps can normally be fixed with a simple washer or insert change. You can buy universal parts in any DIY shop or plumbers merchant. If it's a branded taps, you may need to find specific parts as universal ones will not work. It can sometimes be cheaper to replace the tap rather than repair.
Answered by JSM Plumbing and Heating services
10th February 2019
JSM Plumbing and Heating services answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
Taps are often a simple repair however there are many different sized cartridges and inserts so Ideally tap/manufacturer identification is needed before you start obviously this isn’t always possible so it’s recommended to have a few spares available. Start by isolating the supply and removing the tap head to gain access to the cartridge to remove it so you can either replace the washer/disc or change the whole cartridge if necessary, be sure to inspect the internal tap body for damage and debris as it may need re-seating, re fit in reverse order and check for leaks on the tap connections under the tap as they can become loose while working on the faulty tap.
Answered by A.D. Energy
9th February 2019
A.D. Energy answered the question "How to fix a leaking / dripping tap?"
Depending on what type of tap you have you may need to replace the washer, cartridge or replace the tap. Quarter turn taps require a cartridge, other taps a washer. Always isolate the water first and remove any pressure/water from the pipework. Remove tap heads gently and replace what needs to be replaced. You can usually find out which cartridges are needed by having the Manufacturer of the tap and contacting them. Washers will need to be sized correctly.