A dripping tap is more than an irritation: it wastes water and may indicate a worn seal, cartridge or internal component. The correct repair depends on the tap design, so start by identifying the fitting rather than buying a generic washer.
Before you begin
Locate the isolating valves or internal stop tap and make sure they operate before dismantling anything. Close the waste so that small screws cannot fall into the pipe, protect the basin surface and take a photograph of the tap before removing parts. If the water cannot be isolated safely, stop and contact a plumber.
Work out where the leak starts
- Drip from the spout: often linked to a worn washer, ceramic cartridge or damaged valve seat.
- Water around the handle: may indicate a seal or O-ring problem.
- Leak beneath the basin: check the flexible connections, fixing points and waste separately; do not assume the tap mechanism is responsible.
Identify the tap mechanism
Traditional compression taps generally use rubber washers. Quarter-turn and many mixer taps commonly use ceramic cartridges. Cartridge dimensions, splines and opening direction vary, so remove the component carefully and match it to the manufacturer’s replacement where possible.
A careful repair sequence
- Turn off the water and open the tap to release residual pressure.
- Remove the handle and cover without forcing plated surfaces.
- Use the correct tool to remove the valve or cartridge.
- Inspect seals, seating surfaces and visible limescale.
- Fit the correct replacement component without overtightening.
- Reassemble the tap, restore the water slowly and test around every joint.
When to call a plumber
Professional help is sensible where isolation valves are seized, pipework is corroded, the tap is concealed, the leak is below the floor or inside furniture, or a previous repair has damaged the fitting. Stop immediately if water reaches electrical equipment or cannot be contained.
For further practical guidance, see WaterSafe’s advice on dripping taps and use a WaterSafe-approved plumber where appropriate.
When replacement is more economical than repair, Bathwise can help match the new tap to the basin, water system and finish of the wider bathroom.
