Ignite Plumbing & Heating
Dripping or Leaking Tap — Causes and Repair Cost
A dripping tap from the spout means a worn washer or cartridge. Dripping from the base of the spout means a worn O-ring. Both are straightforward fixes.
Worn rubber washer (traditional taps)
Traditional pillar taps use a rubber washer pressed against a seat to stop water flow. The washer wears over time and allows water to drip through the spout. Standard repair: replace the washer.
Failed ceramic cartridge (modern taps)
Modern quarter-turn taps use a ceramic disc cartridge. When it cracks or wears, the tap drips or becomes stiff. Cartridges are replaced rather than repaired.
Worn O-ring (dripping at base of spout)
If water appears around the base of the spout rather than from the tip, the O-ring seal is worn. The tap needs to be dismantled and the O-ring replaced.
Practical checks and next steps
Tap washers and cartridges are DIY-replaceable with basic tools: an adjustable spanner, screwdriver, and replacement washer (under £2 from any hardware shop). If you're not confident isolating the water supply, or if the tap body is damaged, call a plumber.
- Identify where the drip is coming from — tip of spout (washer/cartridge) or base of spout (O-ring).
- Turn off the water supply to that tap — either the isolation valve under the sink or the main stopcock.
- For traditional taps: remove the handle, unscrew the headgear, remove and replace the washer.
- For modern quarter-turn taps: cartridge replacement requires identifying the exact cartridge model first.
- If unsure, call a plumber — it's a quick, inexpensive repair.
How much water does a dripping tap waste?
A tap dripping once per second wastes around 5,500 litres a year — about £15–£25 on your water bill if you're metered. Fixing it typically pays for itself quickly.
Can I replace a tap washer myself?
Yes, if you're comfortable isolating the water supply and have basic tools. Turn off the water, remove the tap handle and headgear, replace the rubber washer, reassemble.