How to Fix a Leaking Water Tap at Home?

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?

A leaking tap is a common household plumbing problem that often develops gradually through daily use. Although a small drip may seem harmless, it can waste a significant amount of water over time and increase your utility bills. Identifying the cause of a water tap leaking problem early allows repairs to be carried out before more extensive damage occurs. In many cases, the issue is caused by worn internal components, corrosion, or loose fittings that naturally deteriorate with age.

Here are Four Key Causes of Water Tap Leaking:

• Worn-Out Washer

The washer is a small rubber or fibre component that creates a tight seal when the tap is turned off. Over time, constant friction causes the washer to wear out, harden, or lose its shape. Once the seal is no longer effective, water begins to pass through, resulting in a continuous drip. This is one of the most common causes of water tap leaking, particularly in older compression taps.

• Damaged O-Ring

An O-ring is a rubber seal located around the tap stem that prevents water from escaping around the handle. As it ages, the O-ring may crack, become brittle, or loosen through repeated use. When this happens, water can leak around the base of the tap handle instead of flowing through the spout. Replacing the damaged O-ring usually resolves the problem quickly.

• Corroded Valve Seat

The valve seat connects the tap body to the spout and plays an important role in controlling water flow. Mineral deposits and corrosion can gradually build up on the valve seat, preventing it from sealing properly. As a result, water may continue dripping from the tap even after it has been fully closed. Regular maintenance helps reduce corrosion and extends the lifespan of the tap.

• Loose Or Broken Components

Daily use and constant water pressure can gradually loosen internal screws, nuts, and other mechanical parts inside the tap. Damaged or loose components create small gaps that allow water to escape, causing a water tap leaking problem that often becomes worse over time if left unrepaired.

Understanding Different Types of Taps

• Compression Taps

Compression taps use a rubber washer that presses tightly against the valve seat to stop water flow when the handle is turned. Because the washer experiences constant friction during operation, it naturally wears out over time, making compression taps more prone to leaks than other designs.

• Ball Taps

Ball taps use a rotating metal or plastic ball with internal chambers to regulate water flow and temperature. While they provide smooth operation, they contain several small internal components that can wear, loosen, or fail over time, eventually causing leaks if maintenance is neglected.

• Cartridge Taps

Cartridge taps control water flow using a cartridge mechanism instead of a traditional washer. They are generally more durable, easier to operate, and less likely to develop leaks under normal use. However, a damaged or worn cartridge can still lead to dripping, reduced water flow, or inconsistent operation, requiring replacement to restore proper performance.

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!