Dripping Tap? Here’s Why It’s Happening (And When to Fix It Yourself)
That steady drip-drip-drip at 2am isn’t just annoying. Left alone, a dripping tap wastes water, pushes your bill up, and can sometimes point to a bigger issue underneath. Luckily, most causes are simple, and a few are even fixable yourself.
Here’s what’s usually going on, and how to know when it’s a quick job versus one for a plumber.
1. A Worn Washer
This is by far the most common cause, especially in older taps. Every time you turn a tap on and off, the washer presses against the valve seat. Over time, it wears down and stops sealing properly, letting water drip through.
Fixable yourself? Often, yes. Replacing a washer is a straightforward job with the right tools, though you’ll need to turn off the water supply first.
2. A Damaged O-Ring
If your tap is dripping from around the handle rather than the spout, the O-ring is often the culprit. This small rubber ring can wear out or become loose over time, especially with frequent use.
Fixable yourself? Usually a simple swap, similar to a washer replacement, though it depends on your tap type.
3. Corroded Valve Seat
The valve seat connects the tap to the spout. Over time, sediment in your water can cause corrosion here, leading to leaks around the spout area.
Fixable yourself? This one’s trickier. It often needs specific tools and know-how, so it’s usually better left to a plumber.
4. High Water Pressure
Sometimes the tap itself isn’t the problem at all. Excessively high water pressure can force components to wear down faster than normal, causing drips even in newer taps.
Fixable yourself? Not really. This needs a proper pressure check, which is best done by a professional.
5. Loose Parts
Sometimes it really is that simple. Fittings can loosen naturally over time through everyday use, and a drip is often the first sign.
Fixable yourself? Yes. Check for obvious looseness first. It’s worth ruling out before assuming something more serious is going on.
When to Call a Plumber Instead
If you’ve tried the basics and the drip continues, or if you’re just not comfortable working with your home’s water supply, that’s your cue to call someone in. It’s also worth getting a plumber out if the drip is coming with other signs, like low pressure elsewhere in the house or unusual noises.
Still Dripping?
If your tap’s still dripping after trying the simple fixes, or you’d rather just have it sorted properly the first time, get in touch. We can quickly identify the cause and fix it, without the trial and error.
