What you need to fix your tap will depend on where the drip is occurring. If there’s a dribble from the top of the tap, replacing the O-ring should solve the problem whereas if the drip is elsewhere, we suggest changing the washers. As ever, if you attempt to repair your leaking tap and the problem persists, we recommend that you call a professional as there may be a more serious problem.
Tap Types
How to approach mending a dripping tap depends on what type of taps and washers you have, whether you’re dealing with traditional taps or modern monobloc taps. In standard pillar taps, the head can be twisted a whole turn or more which suggests that they use rubber washers while the head of a monobloc tap can only twist a quarter or half turn before it stops, suggesting that they use ceramic washers.
If you have traditional taps with rubber washers, then follow our step-by-step guide to stop that annoying drip. However, if you have modern taps with ceramic washers then we highly recommend that you call a plumber as working with these taps can be much more complicated and you can do more damage by attempting to repair them. Ceramic washers are usually specific to the make and model of your tap and will, therefore, need to be sourced from the manufacturer.
Before you begin: Turn off water supply
The first step, whether you’re changing a rubber washer or replacing an O-ring, is to turn off your water supply, to avoid any potential flooding. There are several ways to turn off your water supply so follow the instructions below to find your preferred or required method.
NB: We recommend you wear protective eyewear and rubber gloves for all methods listed below