How to Fix a Dripping or Leaking Tap

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Woodie's DIY will show you how to fix a dripping or leaking tap. This is a common problem in most households but easily fixed.

How to do it

Step 1

In most cases leaking taps are caused by worn washers. It is important to replace a washer with one of equal size. If possible bring the worn washer with you when buying a new one.

Step 2

You can also buy packs of varying sized washers. If you cannot remove the old one before repairing, buy one of these packs and it will most likely contain the correct sized washer.

Step 3

Turn off the cold water supply to the tap at the main service valve or the isolating penny valves if there is one under the sink. If you don’t have an isolating valve under the sink, then you need to turn off the hot water supply in the hot press. Next make sure the tap is turned fully on. You’ll know the water is off when the tap stops running.

Step 4

Place the plug into the plughole to avoid any small parts falling down the drain. Remove the screw cap with a flathead screwdriver. Then unscrew the screw in the tap. In a non-rising spindle tap this can be done by using a flat head screwdriver to unscrew or lever off the cover. Remove the screw and cover.

Step 5

Use a spanner to release the headgear nut. Don’t be too rough with the nut, as you do not want to damage the pipe work. If it is stiff, place a cloth around the tap and use a pipe wrench to support the tap while you apply more pressure to the nut. If it is still not budging coat around the joint with some WD40.

Step 6

Remove the old washer. There may be a small nut holding it in place, if so remove this with a small screwdriver.

Step 7

Fit the new washer to the headgear nut and replace into the tap. Make sure that you tighten the headgear nut well as this could also cause the glands to leak if it’s loose.