How to Fix a Leaking Water Tap at Home?

22 Feb 2024

Leaking taps are a common occurrence that you may come across in your home from time to time. Due to regular usage, taps can develop leaks, making it essential to address the issue promptly. Failing to do so can lead to increased water bills and repair costs for homeowners.

Contrary to popular belief, water tap leaking is not a complex task to fix. With the right methods or information, you can easily resolve a water tap leakage. This blog outlines the correct procedures for fixing a water tap leakage!

What Causes a Water Tap Leakage?

Several factors can lead to a leaking tap. It’s important to identify the root cause before attempting any repair. Below is a detailed explanation of the most common reasons:

Over time, the internal parts of a tap wear out due to frequent use. The rubber or fibre washers inside the tap can become damaged or loosened, resulting in a slow drip. A worn jumper valve or a faulty O-ring may also cause leaks. In some cases, incorrect installation or corrosion in the valve seat can lead to persistent dripping. If these issues are not addressed early, they can worsen and require complete tap replacement.

Here are five key causes of water tap leaking:

• Worn-out or damaged tap washer
  
• Corroded or pitted valve seating
  
• Loose or worn jumper valve
  
• Dislodged or broken O-ring
  
• Incorrect washer size or poor installation
  

How Can You Fix a Water Tap Leakage?

Fixing a leaking tap at home is not complicated. You’ll just need the right tools and a bit of patience. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply

Before starting, locate the mains and turn off the water supply to avoid flooding.

Step 2: Plug the Basin

Insert a sink plug to stop small parts from falling down the drain.

Step 3: Remove Tap Button and Handle

Use a screwdriver to take off the tap button (usually marked hot/cold), then unscrew and remove the handle.

Step 4: Take Off the Skirt and Bonnet

Unscrew the metal skirt and bonnet to access the tap internals. This may require pliers or a spanner.

Step 5: Remove Washer and Jumper Valve

Once the tap body is open, remove the washer and jumper valve. Use tweezers if they’re stuck.

Step 6: Replace with New Parts

Take the old washer and jumper valve to a hardware store to find the correct replacement. Typical sizes are 12mm or 15mm.

Step 7: Reassemble the Tap

Insert the new parts, reattach the bonnet and skirt, then screw the handle and tap button back on.

Step 8: Restore Water Supply

Turn the main water back on slowly and test the tap. If the leak has stopped, you’re done.

Water Tap Leakage Repair Steps

Step 1: Plug the Washbasin

Insert a plug into the basin or washbasin to ensure that no components are lost down the drain during the repair.

Step 2: Take the Tap Button Off

Take off the tap button, usually labelled “hot” or “cold,” from the top of the tap. A screwdriver may be required to complete this step.

Step 3: Remove the Handle

Depending on your tap model, you might need to detach the handle to gain visibility inside. Typically, this involves unscrewing the handle using a spanner or an adjustable wrench.

Step 4: Take Off the Tap Skirt

If your tap has a skirt or shroud, often made of metal, unscrew it using a wrench or a pair of pliers. This step may be challenging due to sealants.

Step 5: Remove the Tap Bonnet

To reach the washer and jumper valve, remove the tap’s body by unscrewing it with a spanner. Ensure not to misplace it, as you’ll need it for reassembly.

Step 6: Remove the Jumper Valve and Washer

After removing the bonnet, locate the washer and jumper valve. Sometimes, the jumper valve may come off with the tap body, but this is not an issue if you know its location. If necessary, use tweezers or needle-nose pliers to extract the washer and jumper valve.

Step 7: Locate the Right Replacement Washer

Take the washer and jumper valves to your local hardware store to purchase replacement parts. Typically, tap washers in residential homes are 12 mm, but in some cases, they may be 15 mm or larger. Consider getting silicone for skirt sealing to prevent future mould growth.

Step 8: Change the Washer

Reinstall the jumper valve and washer within the tap.

Step 10: Assemble Your Tap

Reinstall the tap bonnet and tighten it with a spanner or tool after the washer and jumper valve is in place. However, until you are certain that the tap is fixed, avoid applying silicone to the skirt’s bottom.

Step 11: Activate the Main Switch

It’s time to fully shut off the water supply and reactivate the main water supply but be careful not to shut it off too firmly.

What Tools Are Needed to Fix a Leaking Water Tap?

To carry out a successful repair, keep the following tools ready:

• Adjustable spanner or shifting wrench
  
• Pliers
  
• Screwdriver
  
• Tweezers or needle-nose pliers
  
• Gaffer tape
  
• Cloth or towel
  
• Replacement washers (usually 12mm or 15mm)
  
• Jumper valve
  
• O-ring
  
• Resealing kit or silicone (if needed)
  

The right tools make repairing a water tap leaking far simpler. Always confirm your replacement parts properly match the tap’s existing components.

Conclusion

These steps provide a proper guide for fixing water tap leaking. Acquiring the skills to repair a leaking tap is a valuable ability that can lead to both cost and water savings. With the right tools and a systematic approach, this common plumbing issue is manageable for everyone. Homeowners can effectively address leaking taps and mitigate water waste by familiarizing themselves with the disassembly and repair procedures.

If you are still unable to fix the water tap leakage, you should engage with professionals. K. Heng Plumbing is the leading plumbing company that offers you the best help. We are equipped with advanced tools and solutions that fix the water tap leakage quickly. Connect with our K. Heng Plumbing to learn more about the service!