Why Fix a Dripping Tap?

A dripping tap might seem like a minor annoyance, but even a slow drip wastes a surprising amount of water over time — and increases your water bill. The good news is that fixing a dripping tap is one of the most accessible DIY plumbing repairs, requiring only basic tools and a little patience.

Understanding the Two Common Tap Types

Before you start, it helps to know which type of tap you have, as the repair process differs slightly:

  • Traditional (compression) taps: These have separate hot and cold handles that you turn clockwise to stop the flow. The drip is usually caused by a worn washer.
  • Mixer taps with a cartridge: These use a single lever or handle. The drip is usually caused by a worn cartridge.

This guide focuses on the most common cause: a worn washer in a traditional tap.

What You'll Need

  • Adjustable spanner or wrench
  • Flathead and Phillips screwdrivers
  • Replacement washers (available at any hardware shop)
  • Plumber's grease
  • A cloth or towel

Step-by-Step: Fixing a Dripping Tap

Step 1 – Turn Off the Water Supply

Locate the isolation valve under the sink (a small slotted screw) and turn it 90 degrees with a flathead screwdriver. If there's no isolation valve, turn off the main stopcock. Turn the tap on to release any remaining pressure and water in the pipes.

Step 2 – Remove the Tap Handle

Pry off the decorative cap on top of the handle (usually marked H or C) to reveal a screw. Unscrew it and lift the handle off. Place the small parts somewhere safe so you don't lose them.

Step 3 – Unscrew the Headgear

Use your adjustable spanner to unscrew the large nut (the headgear) holding the tap mechanism in place. Turn it anticlockwise. Once removed, you'll see the spindle — the component that controls water flow.

Step 4 – Replace the Washer

At the bottom of the spindle, you'll find the washer — a small rubber disc held in place by a brass nut. Unscrew the nut, remove the old washer, and fit the new one of the same size. Apply a small amount of plumber's grease to help it seat properly.

Step 5 – Reassemble the Tap

Reattach the brass nut over the new washer, screw the headgear back in firmly (but don't overtighten), and replace the handle and decorative cap.

Step 6 – Restore the Water Supply

Turn the isolation valve back on slowly. Check the tap — the drip should be gone. If it still drips, the washer seat itself may be damaged, which may require a professional or a tap reseating tool.

When to Call a Plumber

Some situations are better handled by a professional:

  • The tap continues to drip after replacing the washer
  • You notice corrosion or damage to internal components
  • You have a modern cartridge mixer tap and aren't confident replacing the cartridge
  • There's any sign of water damage around the base of the tap

Quick Reference Summary

  1. Turn off the water supply
  2. Remove the tap handle
  3. Unscrew the headgear
  4. Replace the worn washer
  5. Reassemble and restore water
  6. Test and check for drips

With the right tools and a bit of confidence, fixing a dripping tap is a satisfying and money-saving DIY win. The whole job typically takes under 30 minutes once you've gathered your materials.