Don’t Be A Drip. Fix That Tap.

Don’t Be A Drip. Fix That Tap

There are few things more annoying than the drip drip drip of a leaky tap and getting a plumber can be expensive for what is essentially a fairly simple DIY job. Here’s how you can save yourself a few quid and fix that leaky tap in just a few minutes.

The Tools to Fix a Dripping Tap 

Firstly, make sure you have the tools for the job. You aren’t going to plumb a whole new water system, but if you don’t have a screwdriver, a couple of pairs or pliers and a wrench, it’s about time you invested in them. Every household should have a basic toolkit.

Troubleshooting

Start by turning off the water supply at the mains. If you don’t know where that is, it’s about time you found out. Many faucets will have an isolation tap on the supply pipe underneath the sink. Next, put the plug back in the sink. After all, you don’t want any fiddly parts falling down the plughole. Now, it’s a good idea to try to identify the brand and type of tap you have. Whether it is a traditional tap, a mixer tap or a lever tap, you should be able to find step-by-step assembly instructions for most taps online, particularly any modern taps. It’ll give you a good idea of what to expect when you take it apart (and a handy guide for when you have to put it back together again). If it’s a dual tap, you’ll need to identify whether it’s the hot or cold tap that’s leaking. Run the hot water and if the leak is warm, you have your answer.

First Step To Fix a Leaking Tap

Start by removing the tap controller. This involves removing the screw that secures the head. It may be hidden under the cap. If you’re lucky, the cause of the leak will be nothing more than the metal ring under the tap becoming loose. If this is the case simply re-tighten with a wrench and replace the tap.

Replacing The Tap Washer, Ceramic Disk or O-Ring

The most common cause of a leaky tap, however, tends to be a worn washer or a faulty ceramic disc. If this is the case, you need to remove the worn washer and take it to a hardware store to ensure you get a replacement that’s the same size. With the valve exposed, use an adjustable spanner to grip the nut section at the base (where it joins the tap body). Position the pliers on the tap body to hold the tap in place while you unscrew the valve with the spanner. Flip out the worn washer and substitute it with a replacement o-ring to fix your leaking tap.

Another Option you may Need to Fix a Dripping Tap 

Sometimes a tap will leak from the joint where it attaches to the sink. This is usually due to friction on the washer and is easily repaired by unscrewing the faucet head and replacing the washer. Be careful not to over-tighten the connection when you replace the head to ensure the continuous flow through the spout.

No Need to Call that Plumber after all!

Well done. You have followed the guide and you’ve just fixed your first leaky tap. Now don’t forget to turn the water supply back on. 

However if you are looking to replace a tap or if we can be of any help when it comes to bathroom design we’re here to support you. Please give us a ring on 0141 771 3640 Thanks, My Beautiful Bathroom.

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