The Ultimate Guide to Fixing Your Leaking Taps

Here at Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we specialize in leak repair and faucet replacement. With our professional expertise and industry knowledge, we understand the common causes of leaking taps and the possible solutions. In this guide, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to fix a leaking tap.

Possible Reasons Why Your Tap Is Leaking

• Damaged valve seat: This is the surface that the washer forms a seal against when the tap is off. If it gets scratched or worn, that seal won't be perfect, leading to leaks.
• Broken washers: Washers are often made of rubber or plastic and create a tight seal to stop water flow. Over time, they can wear out, crack, or become misshapen, allowing water to sneak past.
• O ring problems: O-rings are another type of gasket that create seals within the faucet. Similar to washers, they can wear out and cause leaks.
• Loose parts: Sometimes, the leak is due to something as simple as a loose screw or nut.  If the handle or other components are wobbly, they might not compress the washer or cartridge properly, causing a leak.
• Broken cartridge: In some faucets, a cartridge controls both water flow and temperature. If this cartridge is malfunctioning, it might not be able to shut off the water completely.

How to Fix a Leaking Water Tap

• Turn off the Water Supply: Locate the shut-off valve for the specific tap you're repairing. It's usually located under the sink or behind the washing machine for laundry taps. Turn the valve handle clockwise until it stops completely. You might need a wrench for some valves.
• Disassemble the Tap: Use a screwdriver or wrench to remove the handle cover and then the handle itself. There are different tap designs, so consult your faucet's manual if available.
• Replace the Faulty Parts: Inspect the tap parts for wear and tear, including washers, O-rings, and seals. Replace any damaged or worn-out parts with new ones of the same size and type. Ensure the new parts are seated correctly and securely in the tap.
• Check the Tap Body and Valve Seating: Even if you replace washers or cartridges, the leak might persist if the faucet body or valve seat is damaged. Examine the tap body for any signs of damage or corrosion and clean the valve seating area using a cloth or brush to remove any debris or mineral deposits. Use a seat grinder or reseating tool if necessary to smooth out any rough spots on the valve seating.
• Reassemble the Tap: Carefully reassemble the tap in the reverse order of disassembly. Ensure all parts are aligned correctly and tightened securely.
• Turn on the Water Supply and Test: Slowly turn on the water supply valve and check for leaks around the tap. If the problem persists, consider calling a professional plumbing service for leak repair or faucet replacement.

When to Call a Professional Plumbing Repair Service for Help

While fixing a leaking tap is often a DIY task, there are situations where calling an experienced plumber is necessary. If you don’t have the expertise or tools to fix the problem, it’s safer to enlist the help of a professional plumber. Complex leaks require specialized knowledge and equipment to properly diagnose and repair the issue.

If you’re looking for a top-rated plumbing service offering professional leak repair services, get in touch with Mr. Rooter Plumbing. Our plumbers have years of experience with leak detection and faucet repair and can fix a leaking tap with precision.