How to Fix a Dripping Tap
Stop a dripping tap by turning off the water, removing the headgear and replacing the worn washer or ceramic disc cartridge.
Quick answer
Turn off the water supply to the tap. Open the tap to release pressure. Remove the headgear with an adjustable spanner. Replace the old rubber washer or the ceramic disc cartridge. Reassemble the tap and turn the water back on.
A dripping tap wastes water and can stain your sink. In most cases the fix is simple: the rubber washer or ceramic cartridge inside has worn out and needs replacing.
What you’ll need
- adjustable spanner
- replacement washer or ceramic disc cartridge
- clean cloth
- torch
Step by step
- 1
Turn off the water supply
Locate the isolation valve beneath the sink and turn it clockwise. If there is no valve, turn off the main stopcock, usually found under the kitchen sink or in the front garden.
- 2
Release the pressure
Open the tap fully and leave it until the water stops flowing. Place a cloth in the sink to catch drips and cover the plughole to stop parts falling down.
- 3
Remove the tap headgear
Take off the decorative cap on top of the handle. Unscrew the shroud and lift out the headgear using an adjustable spanner. Shine a torch inside to inspect the seating.
- 4
Inspect the washer or cartridge
Hold the headgear up and look at the base. A traditional tap has a small rubber washer held by a nut. A ceramic disc tap has a cartridge inside.
- 5
Fit the replacement
Remove the old washer with the spanner and fit the new one. For ceramic discs, pull out the old cartridge and push in the new one. Match the part to your tap model.
- 6
Reassemble the tap
Lower the headgear back into the body. Tighten the shroud by hand, then replace the handle cap. Do not overtighten.
- 7
Turn the water back on
Open the isolation valve anti-clockwise. Test the tap. It should open and close smoothly without dripping.
Turn off the water supply before you start. Water pressure can spray out when you loosen the headgear. Place a cloth over the drain so small parts do not fall in. Wear eye protection if working in an awkward position.
Common mistakes
- Forgetting to isolate the water supply.
- Scratching the tap finish with the spanner teeth. Cover the jaws with tape first.
- Buying the wrong washer size or cartridge type. Take the old part to the hardware shop.
- Overtightening the shroud, which can crack the body.
Frequently asked
Why does my tap drip even after I change the washer?
The valve seat inside the tap body may be cracked or scored. A plumber can reseat the valve or replace the tap.
Can I fix a ceramic disc tap myself?
Yes. Ceramic disc taps are easier than traditional taps because you swap the whole cartridge rather than a small washer.
How do I know which cartridge to buy?
Look for a brand name or model number on the tap. If you cannot find one, take the old cartridge to a hardware shop for matching.
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