A leaking tap is one of the most common issues in Australian homes. Even a small drip can waste hundreds of litres of water, increase your bills, and potentially damage benches or cabinetry over time. Knowing how to fix a leaking tap can save you money and stop these problems before they get worse.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps on how to fix a leaking tap, everything from identifying the cause, gathering the right tools, to replacing worn parts safely. You’ll also know when it’s best to call a licensed plumber to handle trickier repairs.
Why Taps Start Leaking
Understanding why your tap is leaking is the first step to fixing it correctly. Common causes include:
- Worn washers or O-rings: These small components seal the tap and prevent drips. Over time, they wear out, crack, or shrink.
- Loose fittings or parts: Regular use can loosen screws, nuts, or tap handles, letting water escape.
- Corrosion: Mineral deposits and rust inside the tap body can prevent seals from closing fully.
- High water pressure: Excess pressure puts stress on internal components and, in some cases, can also be linked to bigger issues like a developing burst pipe.
Knowing the cause helps you decide whether it’s a simple DIY fix or if professional intervention is needed.
Safety First: What You’ll Need When Your Tap Starts Leaking
Before you start learning how to fix a leaking tap, gather everything to make the job easier and safer:
- Turn off the water supply: Either at the isolation valves under the sink or the main water valve for your home.
- Tools: Adjustable spanner, screwdriver, cloth, replacement washers or O-rings.
- Optional: A small bucket or cloth to catch drips and prevent mess.
Taking these precautions ensures you won’t damage your sink or plumbing while working. If you feel unsure, calling a licensed plumber is always the safest option.
Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing a Leaking Tap
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
The first step in how to fix a leaking tap is shutting off the water. Look for the isolation valves under your sink and turn them clockwise to stop the water. If you can’t find them, shut off the main water supply. Then, open the tap to release any remaining water in the pipes. This prevents sudden sprays and keeps you dry.
Step 2: Cover the Drain and Remove the Tap Handle
Place a cloth or sink plug over the drain to catch any small parts that may fall. Remove the tap handle carefully, usually by unscrewing a small screw or popping off a cap. Removing the handle gives you access to the internal parts of the tap, which is where most leaks come from.
Step 3: Inspect the Tap
Take a close look inside the tap. Check for:
- Worn or cracked washers
- Damaged O-rings
- Corrosion or mineral build-up
This inspection helps you identify exactly what needs replacing. If the leak isn’t clearly coming from the tap itself, it may be coming from inside the wall or pipework. In cases like this, professional water leak detection may be needed to locate the real source before any repairs are done.
Step 4: Replace Faulty Parts
Remove the worn washer or O-ring carefully and replace it with a new one of the correct size. Using the wrong part will cause the tap to continue leaking. Make sure the replacement fits snugly, sits correctly, and isn’t twisted. This is the core of how to fix a leaking tap, replacing these small components often stops the drip completely.
Step 5: Reassemble the Tap
Put the tap back together in reverse order. Tighten screws and nuts snugly, but avoid over-tightening, which can crack parts or distort the washer. Check that the handle moves smoothly. Proper reassembly ensures a leak-free operation and restores the tap’s normal function.
Step 6: Turn Water Back On and Test
Turn the water supply back on slowly. Open the tap and check for leaks. Listen for dripping and observe the water flow. If everything is sealed correctly, the tap should run normally without any drips. If it still leaks, the washer or O-ring may need repositioning, or the tap body might be worn and require an expert leaking tap repairs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even simple repairs can go wrong if you’re not careful:
- Over-tightening screws or nuts
- Using the wrong size washer or O-ring
- Ignoring signs of corrosion or damage
- Attempting repairs on modern mixer taps without guidance
Avoiding these mistakes saves time and prevents extra damage.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
Even with the right instructions, some leaks require professional plumbing services help. Call a licensed plumber if:
- The tap continues dripping after replacing parts
- Corrosion or internal damage is severe
- Leaks persist under high water pressure
- You’re unsure about handling the repair safely
A professional can quickly inspect, repair, or replace your tap, giving you peace of mind.
FAQs About How to Fix a Leaking Tap
Can I fix any leaking tap myself?
Most standard taps can be repaired at home if you have the right tools and replacement parts. Simple leaks caused by worn washers or O-rings are often straightforward to fix. However, complex mixer taps or taps with heavy corrosion may need a licensed plumber to ensure the repair is safe and effective.
How do I know which washer or O-ring to buy?
Check the brand and model of your tap before buying replacement parts. Taking the old washer or O-ring to a hardware store helps ensure you get an exact match. Using the correct part is important because even a small size difference can prevent the tap from sealing properly.
How long does a tap repair usually take?
For most simple repairs, such as replacing a washer or O-ring, it usually takes 15–30 minutes. More complex taps or ones with corrosion may take longer, especially if extra cleaning or part replacement is needed. Planning ahead and having the right tools ready will make the job quicker and easier.
Need Help Fixing a Leaking Tap?
JSW Plumbing has been helping homeowners across Sydney with tap repairs and plumbing maintenance for over 15 years. Our licensed team can inspect, repair, or replace your leaking tap efficiently and leave your kitchen or bathroom tidy.
Reach out to us at (02) 8520 3537 or email info@jswplumbing.com.au. Schedule an appointment today and put an end to that annoying drip.
