How to fix a dripping tap
4000 drips equals a litre of water (you can calculate how much water you’re wasting using this drip calculator). A tap dripping every 6 seconds will waste 3.6 litres of water a day, or over 1300 litres per year.
While we’ve had a massive year for water falling from the sky and filling our reservoirs, it’s much better to not waste water (notwithstanding the fact that you are paying for it).
A tap can drip for several reasons, including:
Worn or damaged washers: A tap has a washer inside that should create a watertight seal when the tap is turned off. Over time, the washer can become worn or damaged, causing water to leak through and the tap to drip. The more worn it is, the faster the drip.
Corroded valve seat: The valve seat is the metal part of the tap where the washer sits. If the valve seat becomes corroded or damaged, it can prevent the washer from forming a proper seal, causing the tap to drip.
Loose o-rings: O-rings are small rubber discs that are used to create a seal in certain types of taps. If the O-rings become loose or worn, they can cause the tap to leak.
High water pressure: If the water pressure in your home is too high, it can cause the tap to drip or even create a steady stream of water. This is because the pressure can force water through the tap's components even when the tap is turned off. This should be checked if you are laying a new mains pipe with a wider diameter.
Improper installation: If the tap was not installed correctly or is not the right size for the sink/bath/shower, it can cause the tap to drip.
To fix a dripping tap, you may need to replace the washer, valve seat, or O-rings, depending on the specific issue. If you are unsure how to fix the tap yourself, you can call us and we’ll come and fix it for you.